Del Mar Race – Opening Day Fashions – San Diego

In celebration of Del Mars 75th anniversay, I wanted to capture photographs with a timeless appeal. I love  looking at nostalgic pictures of times gone by when ladies and gents dressed to the nines for mid-day affairs. In order to portray classic fashions in a year where flourescent has made a huge comeback, it was absolutely necessary to shoot black and white photos.

 

mens horse race fashion opening day del mar vintage style by san diego event photographer heather van gaale

del mar fashion ideas for opening day hats and vintage by san diego photographer heather van gaaleopening day fashion with crazy hats on opening day in del mar photograph of alakazia by san diego photographer heather van gaale

The theme of the event was vintage. Although I didn’t spot much vintage fashion amongst the ladies, I did photograph a few classic beauties and some hats that were over-the-top fun. I seem to be attracted to any hat that has feathers or stripes on it!

Pictured above is the extraordinary hat maker Alakazia with models Christelle Tachon and Kelly Lenahan modeling his wonderous creations. Almost everyone wore hats in recognition of the tradition on opening day.opening day del mar in san diego 2012 black and white photos by artisitic photographer heather van gaaleI loved all the crazy hats but I couldn’t take my eyes off of the thoroughbreds. Number 10 was gorgeous. I spotted him in the paddock and had a hunch about him. I loved his gray mane,dappled coat and rebellious energy. The lines were long and the race was starting so I didn’t have time to place my bet.

artistic photographer events society and travel heather van gaalejockey on a horse black and white photography by san diego heather van gaalevintage black and white horse race art photography by heather van gaale

As you can see he  won! I wished I would have placed my bet..but atleast I managed to get a shot of him crossing the finish line.

 

If you liked this story you may like my photos of opening day at Rancho Santa Fe Polo Club here.

Feel free to repost and please email me to inquire about purchasing images for personal or commercial use.

xo

Heather

 

 

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