Tips On Attire

By Marsha's On The Square
©Voice, January 2006

ASSESS YOUR WARDROBE

It’s January and it’s cold. You are on a hiatus from showing. Why not take the time to assess your show wardrobe?

You may begin by checking the fit on your riding attire. Your jods and jacket may need easing out or maybe it is time for new ones. Is your vest long enough or is it riding up on your belly? After evaluating them, turn your attention toward the hem and seams. Is the hem half in and half out? Are your seems pulling or opening in places?

Are your accessories up to date? Is your tie stylish, or is it too narrow or too wide? Are your colors fashionable or simply out of style?

Get a photo of yourself taken at a show. Be very critical of that picture. How does your attire fit? Are your jods the right length? Do they have button holes for the spurs to slip through so your jods drop down? Are the sleeves on your jacket too long or too short? Is your jacket too tight or too large? Is the color complimentary to the horse and does it compliment your size, shape, and position in the saddle. Are you presenting the image that you want the judge to see? Remember the rule about first impressions – you get only one chance. Are you putting the best image possible forward?

If you do not wear a hat or if you have never worn a hat, this may be the year to explore this important option. Did you know that 87% of the winners at the 2005 Celebration that showed in a saddle class were seen in the winner’s circle in an appropriate riding hat? There are many styles and Marsha’s on The Square will custom fit and shape a hat that is just right for you. Marsha’s will also teach you how to maintain the look and shape of your hat.

You may want to try wearing gloves this year. If so, plan to start practicing in them so they will not feel foreign to you when you enter the ring. Leather against leather provides the best grip and many riders report that they do not know how they rode without them before.

Don’t wait until the last minute to perform this check list. The season will be here before you know it. It is important that your clothes fit well when you are mounted. The image that you present in the show ring carries through with the image that your horse presents. Your attire should flow into your mount so that you do not stand out in a negative way.