Does your show attire need refreshing? Is your budget too limited to replace the staples like your show coat, helmet, hat, or boots? Do you want to make a statement but not look too ‘extra’?
Sounds like it’s time for you to update your accessories.
Does your show attire need refreshing? Is your budget too limited to replace the staples like your show coat, helmet, hat, or boots? Do you want to make a statement but not look too ‘extra’?
Sounds like it’s time for you to update your accessories.
Accessories are those accents that can really pull a look together, or if done poorly, they can distract from your excellent riding (or… maybe that’s what you’re really going for!). By updating your show accessories, you can elevate your look without breaking the bank, plus you can decide just how simple or bold you want to make your fashion statement.
1. Belts
Having a belt on has been a long-standing rule set by many trainers. Not only is it functional, but it helps pull the entire ensemble together. Using a simple, classic belt, like the Tory Leather Plain Belt, you can look polished in both schooling and the show ring. A change in buckle or light accents can add a little flair without becoming distracting. The Equine Couture Ladies Diamond Quilted Suede belt offers a little color and pattern without being overwhelming (or having to worry about matching other accessories to it). And for the really adventurous accessorizer, you can go bold and blingy with the Equine Couture Cling Patent Leather Belt.
2. Gloves
Gloves are a functional staple of the equine accessory list. They protect your fingers from rubs and blisters, while also providing a polished look while riding. They can highlight a steady, accurate rider’s hand or bring attention to busy hands – deciding which you desire should play a role in glove selection. It’s hard to go wrong with a traditional black glove, like the SSG Classic Glove. It is appropriate for most disciplines and offers protection with a simple look. For a little more jazziness, gloves like the Ovation Pro-Grip Rose Gold or the SSG 2000 Bling Gloves are a perfect option with a little bling added to classic styling. THe SSG model also comes in white, for those in disciplines where white gloves are allowed, and you are really confident with how steady your hands are!
3. Hair Nets
For a simple accessory, hair nets have probably had the most advanced recent upgrades. The traditional Aerborn Hair Nets offer an affordable, lightweight solution to keeping hair contained, while the Ovation Deluxe Hair Net is a thicker, more sturdy and longer lasting option, especially for those with thicker hair. The Real Women Ride No Knot Hairnet have developed the most advanced nets to-date, with an option that requires no pins, no uncomfortable knots, and the easiest way to get the most stylish helmet hair.
4. Spur Straps
Although spurs are not an accessory for everyone, like gloves, they are an opportunity to draw attention to a key piece or riding anatomy – the lower leg. For a simply, clean, unassuming look, classic black straps with simple buckles like the Toklat Premium Leather Spur Straps will give your spur stability without added attention. For some simple bling, the Tory Leather Spur Strap with Engraved Buckle and the Verona Crystal Beaded Spur Strap offer slight highlights without being gaudy.
By updating these accessory pieces, you can successfully polish your look easier than it is to polish your boots. Speaking of which – nothing compliments on-point fashion better than clean, tidy and well fitting equipment, so remember to get your coat dry cleaned, wipe off your helmet, and work those boots into a shine! Good luck in the show ring!!