PrintIn honor of the start of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, we decided it was high time we reprinted this classic advice column on how to dress for the horse inspection. It originally ran in the Feb. 21, 2008, issue of the Chronicle. Without further ado: An eventer’s guide to dressing for success (and avoiding fashion faux pas) at the jogs.
As the frigid days of winter recede and spring inches her way into existence, the thoughts of eventers across the country collectively turn once again to one thing: fashion.
OK, perhaps not.
The majority of horsemen and women are admittedly not clotheshorses, and that’s undoubtedly part of this sport’s highly touted down-to-earth charm. But as we head toward the spring three-day events, it may be time for many riders to re-assess their wardrobe selections for horse inspections.
Presenting your horse to the ground jury at a three-day event should be a point of pride for every rider. Whether they’re being presented at a one-star or a four-star, most of our horses are consistently buffed to perfection at jogs across the country, and that’s a fact of which the eventing community can be proud. Unfortunately, however, the same can seldom be said for the majority of our riders.
Uniting Form And Function
When in doubt as to your clothing choices, play it safe. If you’re unsure of the best color palette for your wardrobe, consider brown and green your defaults, as they are best suited to hide dirt and slobber, respectively. Use your own judgment on which type of stain is typically more of a problem for you.
Pastels are welcome, particularly in spring, but a bit more high maintenance. And wearing white to your horse inspection is a metaphor for the sport of eventing itself: Many aspire, but few succeed.
Well-tailored pantsuits in dark colors for women always exude professionalism, so long as they aren’t masculine. Throw in some classy jewelry, a ruffled under shirt or a silk scarf to add a feminine touch.
Skirts are tricky, but not necessarily out of bounds. When assessing your collection, live by the “knee to tea” mantra. Anything longer than tea length, and you won’t be able to run; anything shorter than the knee, and, well, you get the picture... And so will every one of the 500 spectators lined up to watch you.
This is not to say that skirts should be avoided altogether. On the contrary, everyone enjoys a modest sashay now and then. Just make sure to opt for youthful whimsy or business casual over seductive siren. If it has a slit, leave it.
