Equestrian Style

Equestrians have been influencing fashion for centuries, so it comes as no surprise that they continue to influence the world of fashion today.

Jean Paul Gaultier’s collection for Hermès in Paris opened with riders and horses in a paddock beneath chandeliers while models strode the runway in equine-inspired leathers and bit accented belts and boots. ( This photo is by Jacques Brinon for the Associated Press)

Designers like Ralph Lauren have always tried to infuse equestrian style into their brand with various riding jackets, belts and blouses.

This photo (right) shows two models from Alexander McQueen’s Spring 2010 collectionand Julien Macdonald’s Fall 2010 collection. (Photo courtesy of Dior)

So, I know what you’re thinking: “That’s great if you’re dressing up for Halloween!” or “How can I translate this fashion trend to work for me?” Well, you could start wearing your riding boots and breeches every day (sans manure) …or you could incorporate elements of this style into your existing wardrobe.

Gwenyth Paltrow is one of the greatest models of this look. Her daughter, Apple, is an avid equestrian and even though Gewnyth claims not to like horses, she definitely enjoys the style.

Here, you can see spreads from two fashion magazines with examples of how Gwenyth pairs riding boots and riding jackets with jeans. “Riding” boots – or boots that look like those that can be worn in the saddle – have become increasingly popular over the past few years. You can find variations of them at nearly all shoe stores from DSW to even Target! Pairing them with skinny jeans and a collared shirt completes the look nicely.

You can also add a riding jacket to the mix, or just wear the jacket by itself with jeans. J.Crew has a wonderful selection of “riding” jackets and their button shirts are some of my favorite. You can find these jackets at just about any department store. I like to wear mine with either a simple blouse or pair it with a scarf like Gwenyth has done.

Riding pants are another element of style that designers are starting to market. Now, you don’t have to go to your favorite tack shop to see a variety of styles – just go to the Gap! I love this look with flats, but you could also pair them with paddock boots if you want to really go equestrian! In my opinion, skinny jeans are just a variation of this style and many are starting to become available in more stretchy fabrics now – just like our newly popular riding jeans!

This magazine spread suggested wearing a riding jacket with the riding pants, but I think a cute blouse or even a button shirt would also look great. I’ve also seen people wear belts over the jacket, which is a fun look.

So, as you can see, the items of clothing that we once kept just for the barn are becoming popular everywhere else! I really enjoy adding elements of this equestrian style into my “normal” clothing. How do you wear this style?