A trendy riding look you can actually ride in

Amazing news for all our riders! Equestrian fashion is trendy for this year. The bad news is that many of these designs are coming from people who have probably never been near a horse. So we took it upon ourselves to recommend some alternatives that you could actually wear to the barn and not get laughed at.

First, let’s talk a bit about what folks are defining as characteristics of the “equestrian look.” One article I read mentioned slim pants (breeches, we assume) tucked into boots, fitted tailoring, and leather accents. This style also seems to be a big fan of neutrals, organic materials like cotton, wool, and leather, and small pops of classic patterns like plaid.

We’re going through a micro trend a minute in the fashion world, so I definitely spot some similarities between this look and the “Old Money” style that was very trendy on TikTok a couple of years ago. These styles both prioritize a good cut and quality fabric rather than a big brand name splattered on the front. But don’t let that fool you, both of these styles will absolutely splurge for a Gucci belt.

Now, let’s dive in to some of these “equestrian” looks from top designers to dissect them, poke fun at them, and recommend some swaps that you can actually ride in.

Let’s start with this look from Chanel. First, I would just LOVE to get this poor girl a helmet that properly fits her head. This one looks photoshopped on. I suspect this helmet was mostly an accessory for flair on the runway, but it is attempting to draw from the classic velvet hunter helmet. And if that’s the style you want, we have one that will actually be functional! The Charles Owen Fian helmet perfectly captures that classic style that myself and many other riders grew up with but combines it with the modern safety features we seek today.

But now that my helmet rant has been addressed, let’s discuss the coat. The material is the real treat for the eyes here with that classic country-style tweed. However, we all know ain’t nobody riding in that. So, I would dupe this look with a shorter jacket that captures the same material and pattern like the Ariat Marland Jacket.

Or if you won’t be on your horse, grab Ariat’s Ballston Cardigans. I am obsessed with long, flowy cardigans and this is one of the finest. The fabric is so luxe you’ll feel like you’re in Chanel and it has that wonderful plaid that just screams classic country equestrian. It’s also the perfect length for this look.

For jewlery, we see your oversized bangle and match you an elegant one-of-a-kind equestrian-themed necklace from V2 designs. We highly recommend their Beval Snaffle Necklace that will be the talk of the town at your next event! Plus, unlike the Chanel look, this one is actually authentically equestrian.

And if you’re looking for some dual-tone boots that won’t be permanently ruined by your pasture, check out the Mountain Horse Sovereign Ladies Field Boot in tonal brown. These gorgeous boots are designed to be equal parts eye-catching and comfortable with soft premium selected genuine leather lining. They feature a Spanish cut top, 9 sets of eyelets with fixed elastic lacing and ergonomically-designed removable ShockX™ Advanced insole. I guarantee the model wishes she were wearing these boots on the runway.

My next victim is this look from Hermes. Now, we can start off with some easy improvements here. Number one, breeches. Those are not the Sunday whites we’re looking for. Why not grab a pair that’ll help you cinch your show win? We love the EGO7 Women’s Jumping EJ Knee Patch Breech for their comfort! The Italian tailoring and the amazing stretch fabric will amaze you with a flattering fit and flexibility in the saddle. They’re easy to care for and provide a reliable grip in the seat. What more could you ask for?

What I do really love about this  look is the tonal look of the white on white disrupted by the collar. Now if you’re going to show, you’re going to have to keep the fun patterns on the inside of your collar, but Essex Classics has dozens of classy show shirts with a gorgeous patterns. In the spirit of this pink inspo collar, we recommend the Essex Classics Ladies “Pink Paisley” Luna Performance Long Sleeve Show Shirt! And it’s super breathable for hot show days.

And since we’re not getting our color in the collar, you best believe we’re getting it in our show jacket. We love seeing green jackets like the For Horses Yakie Hunter jacket and blue like Equiline Women’s Casur B-Move Competition Jacket make their way into the ring! But if you love these red boots as much as I do, I highly suggest checking out the Freejump Women’s Mona Show Jacket in Mars Red. I dream about this jacket daily. Of course, we know your color selection depends on your horse’s coat as well, so check out our 5 Tips To Choosing The Right Colors For Your Horse!

And finally, this Pinterest look excited me because I get to give you a shot for shot remake of this old favorite. Once again, we’ll start with some actually functional white breeches. For this look, I’d opt for something high waisted like the Equiline Women’s Ernaek B-Move High-Waist Knee Grip Breeches. Not only is this my personal favorite rise, but it captures the luxurious layering from the inspo pic. And once again, these breeches are lightweight, comfortable, and stretchy.

The, top it off with the Barbour Marine Shirt for the relaxed fit and summery pure linen. Featuring a slim collar and a curved hem for a feminine touch, this shirt will bring the perfect touch of elegance. Or, try out the Ariat Women’s Muir Long Sleeve Blouse. It’s a classic button-down shirt with a bib front detail for style, and princess seams for a flattering fit. Layered or worn on its own, it’s a proven year-round pick.

Then, top it off with Ariat’s Fairfield Belt or Perri’s Padded Leather Belt. Either of these options will give you a high-quality leather material and an eye-catching belt buckle. These versatile belts are great with everything from denim to breeches and they’re the perfect thing to top off this outfit!

Bonus!! We can’t mention equestrian style without the Dior saddle bag. And I found the best dupe for it! I mean, just add a D charm to the AWST Int’l Saddle Shoulder Handbag and I’d be fooled. Oh and did I mention it’s about a tenth of the cost? After all, we’re talking riding style for those of us who have to pay for food and board. It’s made of a high-quality vegan leather with the look of the real thing. It also have a fold over top flap with magnetic closure and it’s fully lined. I for sure have one of these in my cart at this very moment.

Now that we’ve picked out some very fashionable (and practical) looks, I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to get shopping! I highly recommend browsing for your sweaters, boots, breeches and more on our website. You’ll love brands like Barbour, Equiline, Ariat, Penelope, For Horses, and Tucci to get more of this classic equestrian style off of your Pinterest board and into your closet. And if you need any tips on how to fit our most popular brands or new trending styles, come by one of our stores! We can’t wait to help you find your new favorite ‘fit.