Equine Bloggers Exchange: Differences and Similarities Between U.S. and European Fashion
Silvia Panza is a competitor from Italy who loves everything having to do with horse show fashion, which she writes about on her blog, Fancy In The Sand. If you’d like to have your blog post shared on EquineChronicle.com like Silvia, email B.Bevis@EquineChronicle.com. Blog by: Silvia Panza- Fancy In The Sand
Fashion is passion- A passion that unite equestrians from all over the world. From the U.S. to Europe, horse show clothing, make up, and fancy tack make riders’ eyes shine. Everybody, at least once, dreamed of wearing a jacket they’ve seen at a big show or on the internet. But how does horse show fashion change from one country to an another? Is there an exchange of trends and inspirations? Cat Guenther, fashion blogger at Behind The Bit, and I discussed similarities and differences between horse show clothes across the two continents. Check out what she had to say.
How much, in your opinion, does European horse show fashion influence outfits in the U.S.?
Cat: European and U.S. fashion have a lot in common. I think both influence one another every show season for the better. Examples of this are bolero vests, satin button-ups, and jackets with fringe.
What is going to be “in” this year in the U.S.?
Cat: We will probably see exhibitors going for a simpler look. The industry is focusing less on the amount of bling on a jacket and more on the horse and rider’s abilities in the show pen. Whether the shirt has no crystals or thousands of crystals, a professional first impression is always in. This means making sure your clothes fit well and are clean. First impressions are everything!
What are, from your point of view, the main differences between fashion in the U.S. and in Europe?
Cat: Color schemes. I feel that there are more vibrant colors in the U.S. Whereas, in Europe, exhibitors remain a little more traditional with color. I feel, for the most part, the styles are similar. Exhibitors in both the U.S. and Europe have very polished, stunning fashion choices. For example, I’ve seen a lot of boleros and fitted button-ups, which both look amazing in the pen!
Do you think that black will still be the “king color” in the U.S. this year? Or are there any colors coming up?
Cat: Personally, I think black will still be the dominant color within the show pen this year. Black is very versatile and complimentary in the show pen. I have seen some stunning colored outfits though in colors such as grey, rust, etc. The darker colors or shades seem to be most popular. Although, I think exhibitors may embrace brighter colored button-ups with matching pads this year. With small frys, I’ve seen adorable outfits with bright blues, purples, etc.
Apart from Bolero vests, is there any new trend?
Cat: I’ve observed that button-up shirts have become popular in the show pen, because they are affordable and look professional. Above all, it’s becoming more and more of a trend to be different. By this, I mean that people are expressing their personalities through their outfits. Whether this be a button-up, a classy suit, or a fancy whip stitched hat (hats with whipstitch are a favorite of mine!). I love seeing these current trends because they create more self-expression and individuality in the show pen!
Would you like to add something?
Cat: The most crucial aspect of horse show fashion, no matter the continent or level of showing, is to express yourself through your style!
Thank you Cat, it was a pleasure to work with you! Cat, the owner of Behind The Bit Show Clothing, started her horse show fashion blog at the beginning of this year following her passion for horses and for writing.
So what do you think? What are, in your opinion, the main differences in fashion between Europe and the U.S.?
