Supermodel Petra Nemcova said she was excited to support Grey Goose Vodka's dedication to charity by donning this one-of-a-kind hat designed by Eric Javits. This was her first trip to the Kentucky Derby. The model said it was a wonderful experience and she hopes to be back.
Following the final race at 132nd Kentucky Derby, Nemcova autographed the hat, which will go up for auction beginning Monday, May 8th to May 18 on eBay.com with 100% of the proceeds benefiting The Barnstable-Brown Foundation to support diabetic research. The winning bid will receive the unique designer hat that can be worn in style at the Kentucky Derby for years to come! The retail value for this one-of-a-kind special occasion chapeau is $1000.00.
This is the second year running that Grey Goose Vodka, the official sponsor of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), has joined forces with renowned fashion designer Eric Javits to create a chic, sophisticated and unique hat which is worn only at the Kentucky Derby by a celebrity and then sold, with the proceeds going to charity. Jamie-Lynn Sigler wore the exclusive design last year.
Eric Javits, welcomed the opportunity to bring his brilliant designs and creative energy to the creation of a Grey Goose Vodka hat for a good cause. "I spiraled silver grey braid into consecutive rows representing the lanes in which the horses's race. The pouf of dotted veiling represents that moment at which the Geese take flight as well as the burst of energy when the horses leave the gate," explained Javits.
The Eric Javits trademark is elegance with gentility married to function. Eric's best known for his use of top of the line and innovative fabrications, as well as his original design style. His pieces charm, endure and are fun to wear. Uncompromising design and intelligent luxury are the hallmark of the Eric Javits brand.
The Barnstable-Brown Foundation raises funds for diabetes research through its internationally known Kentucky Derby party, the Barnstable Brown Gala, named by People as one of the top 10 parties in the country and by Gold Magazine as one of the top parties internationally. The foundation is led by Patricia Barnstable Brown; her son, Christopher Barnstable Brown; her sister, Priscilla Lee Barnstable; and her mother, Wilma Haverly Barnstable. The late David E. Brown, husband of Patricia Barnstable Brown, was the inspiration behind the gala. He died July 31, 2003, after a long battle with diabetes. Since 1989, the gala has donated over 12 millions dollars to University of Kentucky and University of Louisville research labs in honor of Patricia's husband, Dr. David Brown, who died from the disease.