influences never completely leave fashion!s subconscious, equestrian themes are lately popping up everywhere, appearing on the runways, in magazine editorials and on stylish women on the street. The look draws on the refinement that has become associated with horseback riding, the chosen sport of royalty and aristocracy. With finely tailored jackets, chic jodhpurs and an hourglass silhouette, the effect is classic and precise yet still feminine. FItting in with the current emphasis on authenticity and heritage, the Elegant Equestrian is having a moment, resonating strongly with women this fall.
DIEGO VELAZQUEZ SIDESADDLE
Queen Isabel of Bourbon Jules Pellier created the
Equestrian The Spanish sidesaddle’s current design,
painter was the leading allowing women to wear the
artist in the court of long skirts of the era while on
King Philip IV, painting horseback.
members of the royal family,
often on their horses.
1634 1830s
HERMÈS NATIONAL VELVET
The renowned luxury Elizabeth Taylor played a young
label began in France girl who trains a horse for the
as a manufacturer of Grand National steeplechase and
harnesses and bridles wins; the classic film made the
for horses. 12-year-old actress a star.
1837 1944
AUDREY HEPBURN C.Z. GUEST
accomplished horseback The socialite and fashion
rider, though she suffered icon graced the cover of
a near-fatal accident while Time Magazine in equestrian
filming The Unforgiven. garb, making the style
synonymous with high society.
1960 1982
MAD MEN CHARLOTTE CASIRAGHI
Lead character Don Draper’s Gucci designed equestrian
wife Betty is an avid rider, clothing especially for this
appearing on screen in chic competitive rider, Monaco
equestrian gear. royal and socialite, and
her show-jumping team.
2009 2010
DIOR F/W 10
Having explored equestrian themes in the past – most
notably for his S/S 10 Haute Couture collection – John
Galliano presented a rustic yet sophisticated version for F/W
10, inspiring renewed interest inhorseback riding’s classic
uniform.
