Equestrian Fashion: Details That Complete the Look

A closer look at show jumper, Katie Dinan, reveals the styling details she chooses to compliment her hair colour, body shape and overall style as a rider and human being. From a quirky embroidered patch on her coat, to the grid print on the inside of her collar, these small elements come together to create a look that oozes her overall personality.
Think an interesting button, a unique quarter mark or even subtle touches of colour coordination. A walk around any showground will reveal a world of tiny design touches that add up to an impressive overall image. Whether meticulously planned or completely unintentional, these details caught our eye this season.

It’s all in the hands. Matching nail polish to a show jacket, regardless of the colour (imagine how stunning a black manicure would look with a black coat), gives off very “put together” vibes when the gloves come off. Bracelets and watches also add to the look.

Fit is everything. Finding that ideal show jacket takes time or at least an investment into tailoring, or both. The elusive perfect fit, however, will make the wearer look like they spent 10 times the money they did. Take this as a shining example of a jacket that fits to a T.

Rich autumnal hues – the more, the better. The evergreen, navy, cognac, chocolate brown and greys of this horse and rider pair make for a pleasing palette. Having one detail that pops out of an otherwise conservative outfit, such as this oversized belt, takes an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.

Now you see me, now you don’t. Colour coordination is often taken above and beyond the realm of good taste. There are also so called “rules” about clashing colours with horses’ coats. But style laws are meant to be broken, as with this excellent bright yellow and chestnut combination. The saturated colour is carried in small doses through the piping and underside of the stirrups.

Good design does not shout. Decorative trim can be used more liberally when it matches in size and shape. Here, the browband, boots and shadbelly points all have mirroring embellishments. Extra pocket buttons on the breeches and velvet breast pocket trim also make a statement without taking away any focus from the overall look.

Go for the bold. Who said that show jackets can’t be both plaid and striped? No one. Maybe it takes a big-box fashion giant to lend a helping hand with thinking outside the box. Thanks, H&M.

Classic. It is difficult to look put together when the main part of one’s day is spent dealing with the various hairs and bodily fluids of horses. This all black look is perfectly practical and all edge. The leather lead even adds to the image. If a fashion editor saw it, they would call it an “accessory.”