Many people have asked me what "look" I like at shows, from saddle pad color to when to start wearing a top hat. Below is a list of suggestions:
Helmet - I ride in a certified helmet (black velvet with a simple, leather harness) until Third Level Championship classes and Fourth Level/above classes. Then I wear a top hat. I do not own or ride in a derby.
Boots - Petrie Anky Elegance, since they fit better than my custom Vogels and have lasted a long time (I bought them 2 years ago and ride in them 4+ times a day, 6 days a week... and I often teach in them). If the weather is bad, I wear Mountain Horse Boots or half chaps. I SHOULD have a pair of show boots, but I am still just buffing my Petries.
Coat - Pikeur Diana. Still sporting the one with the red liner. I am going to be buying a new Pikeur coat this year that is washable, since the rainy August days have left my wool coat a little worse for wear (perhaps making a rainy day coat forever?). It has to be VERY hot for me to remove my coat, even if coats are waived. I think I have ridden 2 tests in my life without a coat.
Breeches - Full seat, high waisted, white breeches all the time at shows. Prefer the Pikeurs or Eurostars. I like the real leather for the Eurostars when it is colder out, Pikeurs with fake leather when it is humid/hot.
Gloves - Always Roekl white Chester gloves.
Stock Tie - Pique tie yourself with a simple silver or gold pin.
Show Shirt - Whatever that old school techy shirt is that has the small, black horse head on the front. Need to buy more. I always wear short sleeved, with a white cotton turtleneck underneath if it is cold. It has to be VERY hot for me to remove my coat, even if coats are waived. I think I have ridden 2 tests in my life without a coat.
Makeup - I don't wear any. I probably should, since I think that people who don't can look like a cabbage patch kid in a riding outfit. Although, too much and you can look like a crazed beauty queen by the end of your ride. Maybe a little lipstick and eyeliner? I am still undecided. I think more is better for evening FEI classes.
Saddle Pads - Plain White
Tack - Plain Black, self padding. Sometimes a beaded or crystal browband.
Braids - Button braids with hair-colored yarn.
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