Trends in Equestrian Fashion

Equestrian fashion is more than just a clothing style. The world of riding has influenced fashion trends for decades and continues to do so today. Equestrian attire can be seen in the silhouette of a blazer, the strap of a bag or even reflected in the embroidered detail on a pair of jeans. What started as practical pieces for riding have become a symbol of luxury, elegance and aristocracy and a touchstone of timeless style.

The equestrian fashion resurgence isn’t just due to a generation of whispering opulence, but also the advances in fabric technology and sustainable practices in the sport. Breeches made to stretch and move with you, wick sweat, and help keep you cool and comfortable in the saddle, schooling shirts that allow you to express your personality while adhering to traditional dress code rules, and show coats built to offer protection and performance – all of these advancements have contributed to making equestrian fashion both practical and stylish.

As a result of the demands of the sport, there are now plenty of brands that prioritize sustainability in their equestrian products. Ariat, LeMieux and Horseware Ireland are just a few of the many companies offering sustainable options in their lines of high-performance breeches, shirts and coats. The trend for sustainable equestrian gear has become so popular that even traditional equestrian retailers have begun to take note. Many shops like Country & Stable have begun to carry eco-friendly versions of the classics, like black show coats, while still offering the traditional styles.

When it comes to traditional colors, there’s no doubt that a classic blue, navy or black will always be the go-to for competitions such as dressage. But vibrant greens, pinks, and purples are starting to be seen as well. And while solid color show shirts are typically required for specific competitions, equestrians can add a touch of flair by selecting the inner lining of their coat.

Another growing trend in equestrian fashion is the inclusion of hidden patterns and creative designs on breech and training shirt collars, which allows riders to display their unique personality while still adhering to solid-colored show shirt rules. Similarly, many of the newer breech and training pants are coming in more fun colors and patterns.

Coco Chanel was one of the first to bring equestrian style into the fashion limelight in 1920 when she repurposed male jodhpurs to suit her feminine figure. This reworking of a utilitarian clothing item has continued to be popular with the likes of Ralph Lauren and Tory Burch, who both have incorporated equestrian inspired clothes into their line of ready-to-wear.

Whether you’re an avid rider or just love to admire the beauty of horses, there’s no doubt that the equestrian fashion resurgence will continue to grow and evolve as designers look to harness the power of this uniquely luxurious style for their collections. With its long and rich history of influence, equestrian clothing and accessories are sure to remain a constant in fashion trends.