Some time ago, Heels Down published a story about tried-and-true makeup tips from an equestrian with a diverse horse showing background. The story, which is re-shared on social media every now and again, always sparks an interesting discussion. But I’m also floored by the negative comments that it almost always attracts, too.
“Is this article for real?”
“Is this a parody? Come on, please.”
As someone who rarely wears makeup – especially to the barn – I can understand the sentiment. What I don’t get though, is why there are so many horse people out there willing to put others down over something so personal and unoffensive. If someone wants to wear makeup when they ride – because it makes them feel confident – then why the snide remarks? No one is saying you *should* wear makeup. But if you do, the article provides some tips that are helpful to riders.
Pro eventer, Lainey Ashker, isn’t shy about her sparkling turnout at dressage shows and horse trials – makeup definitely plays a role in it. She says she’s asked about her makeup routine all the time.
“When I was younger, I used to hate what I looked like without makeup,” she explained. “Now that I take care of my skin, I can deal with a sparse look.”
But she said she wears makeup because it makes her feel good.
“We put our care into our horses and not ourselves,” Lainey said. “Most horse people don’t take care of their skin at all.”
So this hot take is in honor of all the riders who crush it in and out the saddle while wearing makeup. You do you and don’t listen to the haters. This week, we’ll share Lainey’s skincare routine (because it doesn’t matter if you wear makeup or not, we should all be taking care of our skin) and makeup tips. Stay tuned.
This hot take originally published in the Heels Down Spark in September 2021. Get more conversation starters in your inbox every weekday morning by subscribing to the Spark now.