In need of last minute Derby essentials? Gifthorse is a one-stop shop for everything from fascinators and fedoras to day-dresses and men’s apparel; all perfect for spending the day at the track! One of the things I love about this boutique is how Louisville-centric everything is. When you walk in to their shop on market, you are greeted with unique accessories, most of which have some Louisville flare! Fleur de lis, bourbon barrels, ingenious equestrian accents seen in the jewelry and apparel, is a great way to show your love of Louisville while keeping it stylish. If you are a guy looking for bow ties, look no further. There are an array of creative bow ties ranging from wooden ones to bow tie choker necklaces for women! If you have visitors coming for derby, this is a great spot to pick up some gifts that will always make them think of Louisville.
Another thing that makes me love Gifthorse is that you are always greeted by a friendly face when you walk in the door. The owners Butch Sagar and Shawn Beirne always brighten my day and are a great combo of warm & friendly and creative & cool. You can tell they are both artists by the excellent job they do of curating their boutique. When they told me they were hosting a kick-off to Derby week brunch/shopping event, I knew it would be the perfect start to one of my favorite weeks of the year! I definitely was not disappointed.
The event was held in the courtyard behind their shop on upper East Market Street. I was greeted with smiling faces and the owners’ adorable rescue dog Abe, sporting a bow tie. Tasty treats and southern screwdrivers and mimosas made for an even more enjoyable shopping experience. The selection of hats and fascinators, some of which were created by the owner Butch, had me swooning and brimming with excitement for all that is to come this week! Craig Waits was providing some cool music and they featured different artists that had some great derby offerings. They featured Handmade by Peake, Clayton and Crume, Kilika Couture, Pat Swetnam, Danbury Shakes Hat Company and Paintings by Geoff Crowe. Gifthorse will be open this week M-Th 10:30-5:30 and 11-6 Friday and Saturday for any of your last minute Derby needs!
