At Kentucky Branded, we’re not just selling t-shirts and sweatshirts; we’re giving you a way to wear your heart on your sleeve (literally). Every design tells a story. Every fit is built for fans who know that being from Kentucky isn’t just something you say; it’s something you feel.
And when June 1st rolls around? You better believe we’re celebrating hard. Kentucky Day is our unofficial state holiday — a chance to show love for the land that gave us bourbon, basketball, bluegrass, and the best people on earth.
So, throw on that Lexington crew. Fire up the grill. Make a toast to the 15th state in the Union. Because this state isn’t just where you’re from. It’s who you are.
Wait... What Is Kentucky Day, Anyway?
Okay, history buffs — buckle up (but like, in a fun way).
Kentucky Day, also called Statehood Day, marks the exact moment the Bluegrass State became officially legendary. On June 1, 1792, Kentucky ditched Virginia’s shadow and became the 15th state in the U.S. That’s right, we’ve been doing our own thing since day one.
Kentucky was the first state west of the Appalachian Mountains to join the Union, which basically made us the frontier trendsetters of our time. While the rest of the country was figuring itself out, Kentucky was already building distilleries, raising racehorses, and getting real serious about college hoops (okay, that part came later—but you get it).
So why should you care about Kentucky Day?
You’re celebrating more than history; you’re celebrating pride. It’s about rocking your favorite hoodie, blasting some bluegrass, and raising a glass of bourbon to the state that raised you. It's the perfect excuse to throw a backyard BBQ, show off your Kentucky Branded gear, and remind the world that no one reps harder than the Bluegrass faithful.
So yeah, June 1st = Kentucky’s birthday. And you’re on the guest list.
Now that you know a bit about Kentucky Day and the legacy of our beloved state, let’s dig deeper. You know you’re a true Kentuckian when:
- You yell "Go Big Blue" before you say hello
- You cheer louder during March Madness than you did at your own graduation
- You can spot a counterfeit Derby hat from a mile away
- Your kid learned “C-A-T-S! Cats! Cats! Cats!” before the alphabet
- You still talk about that game in 2012 like it happened yesterday
- You say “y’all” in professional emails and don’t care
Show Off Your State Style: Kentucky Branded’s Must-Have State Pride Clothing
When we say we live and breathe Kentucky, we’re not kidding. Every tee, hoodie, and hat is made for the die-hard Wildcat, bourbon connoisseur, Derby devotee, and proud Kentuckian who refuses to blend in.
Here are a few crowd-favorite pieces we think you’ll love repping on Kentucky Day (and all year round):
Lexington, KY Arch Royal Crew
If comfort is king, this crewneck is royalty. The Lexington Arch Royal Crew is soft, oversized perfection with bold white lettering arching across the chest, proudly declaring your roots. It’s got that vintage collegiate vibe like you just rolled out of a tailgate and into a classroom. Whether you're repping Lex on campus or cozied up at home, this sweatshirt brings that local pride without screaming it.
Why people love it:
- Midweight fleece is great for layering
- Classic athletic cut, so it works for game days and lazy Sundays
- The kind of crew you’ll “borrow” from your roommate and never give back
- Available in sizes S to 5XL
Kentucky Sequin Janise Crewneck
This isn’t your basic crewneck. The Kentucky Sequin Janise Crewneck is for fans who enjoy adding a bit of sparkle to their style. The sequined details emphasize the iconic KENTUCKY name, delivering a stunning, eye-catching effect. It’s the kind of sweater you reach for, whether tailgating in November or grabbing iced coffee in April.
Why you need this:
- Super-soft interior = cozy but breathable
- Loose enough to layer, fitted enough to flatter
- Looks amazing paired with high-waisted jeans, biker shorts, or your favorite joggers
- Available in sizes S to XXL
If It Ain’t Kentucky, It Ain’t Bourbon Long Sleeve Tee
If you’ve ever said “bless your heart” after someone said they don’t like bourbon, this tee’s for you. The KY Bourbon Labels Long Sleeve T-Shirt is a tongue-in-cheek must-have that’s part Southern sass, part truth bomb. It's soft, relaxed, and 100% Kentucky.
Reasons you’ll love it:
- Long sleeves are ideal for cooler temperatures or as a layering piece
- The perfect conversation starter at any Derby party or BBQ
- Available in sizes S to XXXL
Spoiler alert: it looks even better with a bourbon in hand.
Kentucky Derby Horse and Jockey T-Shirt
This Kentucky Derby Horse and Jockey T-Shirt starts the party. It's got a bold and contemporary graphic that says, “Yes, I do plan my social life around the first Saturday in May.” Trust us, this is the tee that gets compliments from strangers.
Why it wins:
- The gender-neutral fit makes it perfect for anyone
- Lightweight enough for spring races, breathable enough for summer tailgates
- Available in sizes S to XXXL
Leopard KY Kentucky Crewneck
Subtle, stylish, and totally Kentucky. The Leopard KY Kentucky Crewneck brings a dash of wild with its bold script logo on a super-soft fleece. Available in chic black or ash, it’s the perfect way to flaunt your Kentucky pride with a little flair. Whether you're rocking it at the game, on a coffee date, or just strolling through Lexington, this crewneck says it all.
Why you’ll love it:
- Soft and comfy — perfect for all-day snuggling or turning heads
- Easy to pair with jeans, leggings, or your fave skirt for a casual yet playful look
- Available in sizes S to 5XL
Kentucky Nike Club Hat
The Kentucky Nike Club Hat is a minimalist masterpiece for those who like their roots on display. Featuring a Nike swoosh on the side and an embroidered “Kentucky” on the front, it’s low-key, full of pride and the perfect dad-hat.
Why you’ll wear it everywhere:
- Adjustable back strap for a comfy fit
- It goes with literally anything
- Makes a subtle but powerful statement, “I’m from here, and I love it.”
Grab one for your best friend who moved to Nashville but still brags about being born in the Bluegrass.
The Kentucky Script Heart Tee
Fall in love with Kentucky all over again. The Kentucky Script Heart Tee mixes sweet and sassy with a heart-shaped twist on the iconic Kentucky script that’ll make you smile whenever you wear it.
Why you’ll heart it:
- Soft, breathable fabric that feels like a hug from the Bluegrass State
- Cute, feminine fit that flatters in all the right ways
- Perfect for post-win celebrations or just flexing on TikTok
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Available in sizes S to XXL
Kentucky Royal Blue Patch Black Hat
Nothing says “proud Kentuckian” like the Kentucky Royal Blue Patch Black Hat. This cap features the iconic Kentucky patch in a striking royal blue and adds that extra “wow” factor to any outfit. It's not just for sunny days either — throw it on after a long day of tailgating or if you’re just feeling a bit of that Kentucky energy.
Why you’ll love it:
- Adjustable fit for comfort all day long
- Classic black with a pop of royal blue for that head-turning contrast
- The perfect mix of casual and cool, so you can wear it with anything
- A must-have for any Kentucky lover who wants to keep their state pride front and center
Kentucky Day Celebration Tips
How do you show up for Statehood Day without looking like you’re headed to history class? Easy — throw on your best State of Kentucky apparel (from Kentucky Branded, of course), gather the crew, and do what Kentuckians do best: show up with spirit.
- Host a backyard BBQ featuring bourbon tastings, Derby-inspired decor, and a playlist of Kentucky’s best (from Chris Stapleton to Jack Harlow)
- Plan a trivia night with questions about Kentucky’s history, basketball legends, and iconic foods (yes, burgoo counts)
- Do a Fit Check challenge with your friend group: the best Kentucky-themed outfit wins bragging rights for a year
- Visit a local landmark (birthplace of Abraham Lincoln or a Lexington horse farm, maybe?) and snap pics in your Kentucky Branded gear
- Bonus tip: Don’t forget to tag @kentuckybranded on Instagram with your fits. You just might get featured. We love seeing how y’all rock the merch!
Ready to Rep the Bluegrass?
Everything we make at Kentucky Branded is designed to reflect you. Your pride. Your roots. Your love for this wild, weird, beautiful state that’s produced legends, launched careers, and brought us all together, whether we met in Louisville, Lexington, or somewhere in between.
Kentucky Branded has everything you need to show up and stand out, from officially licensed college gear to cheeky tees and cozy crews. All made by Kentuckians. For Kentuckians.
Shop the entire collection at your favorite Kentucky apparel store.
Follow us on Instagram and tag us in your Kentucky Day fit: @kentuckybranded
See you out there, y’all. Let’s make June 1st the most Kentucky day of the year.