Pink, white, and navy makes an excellent color palette for any outfit. Today I’m going to show you how to use this color palette in your riding outfit, to an outfit for Sunday polo. Sometimes dressing nice for the barn can seem like a chore, but the way you present yourself both at home schooling and at the horse show is important. You never know who’s going to walk into the barn and look at sale horses, or meet with your trainer, and if you’re dressed like a slob, it’s going to leave a bad impression. And remember, that means polishing your boots, too!
The other thing to think about is, if you go to the barn (and you’re like me), you end up having to run like 10 different chores afterwards, and if you don’t have a cute accessory to throw on, you can’t “mask the barn look”. Throwing on a scarf or a vest (or both) does the trick when you’re heading out to the grocery store or the mall to pick up a thing or two.
Also, let’s remember: equestrian style isn’t always about dressing up as an equestrian competitor, it’s about keeping a classic and chic look both in and out of the show ring. Whether you’re watching from the sidelines, training your students at the show ring, or riding sales horses. Equestrian style encompasses a lifestyle around any activity involving horses.
One thing I find exciting now is creating outfits or combining accessories that I can wear from the barn to beyond, just like I was stating above. Accessories like a great handbag, classic hat, or silk scarf can enhance your look without having to change completely. The Carousel scarf above was designed by myself, Ashley Cagle, and is part of the Wellington collection for Banniere Co. It’s an excellent accessory to wear from the barn to beyond.
If I’m not horse showing at the Winter Equestrian Festival, Sunday polo matches at the International Polo Club are a favorite outing of mine. Many times I get asked, “what should I wear to polo”? While outfits can vary at the event, I always say dress your ‘Sunday best’ at polo. Accessories can enhance any outfit, so it’s great to have pieces to pull from that will add a pop of color or sass to any look.
An elegant hat can also elevate the entire look. I’m in love with the quality and detail in Christine A. Moore hats and fascinators. If I’m heading to a polo match, a hat is a great accessory not only to look stylish, but also to keep the sun off your face. I chose this bowler style felt ‘Nia’ hat with a 1950s – inspired polka dot navy and white dress for our first polo outing of the season this year.
Whether you’re a dress gal, or a jumpsuit gal, either is acceptable for polo. Navy, white, and pink make for an excellent color pallet for any outfit. A sleek navy jumpsuit will keep you comfortable, while staying chic. Accent the look with the carousel printed equestrian style scarf. Wicker picnic baskets or picnic-basket style totes are *so in* right now. We are loving this look! Bring a blanket to spread out and cosy up on while you enjoy your champagne from the sidelines.
The International Polo Club in Wellington, Florida hosts its regular polo season from January through April. Locals, celebrities, equestrians from other disciplines, and fans come out and celebrate the sport of kings in sunny south Florida while sipping mimosas and wearing the latest fashions. New for 2019 is The Gauntlet of Polo, and it’s considered the “Triple Crown” of the polo industry. The finest polo ponies compete in the pursuit of the three most prestigious titles in North America: The C.V. Whitney Cup, the USPA Gold Cup® and the coveted U.S. Open Polo Championship®. With prize money totaling $1 million if one team wins all three, then the team will earn the title of the Gauntlet. For more information on the International Polo Club, please visit http://ipc.coth.com/ for tickets and schedule.
Check back for more equestrian style from events we attend. This winter we will be back and forth between Dressage, Showjumping, and Polo events showcasing the fashion, art, and lifestyle. Have something you’d like to see on Equestrianstylist.com? Send me a note here. Ta ta! XXO – @EQStylist.