Trot ON Style ....The Clothes Horse

the bottom line in equestrianism-I'm talking pants!

2012-03-07T05:29:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know riding breeches or jodhpurs aren't the most flattering item in an equestriennes wardrobe, especially beige or white ones which accentuate the negative and cling to the positive revealing every lump and bump inbetween, including that very unattractive feature, camel toe!

Butt, and this is a big one, we don't have to look like the arse end of equestrianism even if we're not blessed with rear of the year. All makes of breeches fit differently so it's worth taking the time to try on lots of different styles. For instance my friend looks really cool in Mark Todd breeches but unfortunately they just don't suit my shape. I also find it's more flattering to go for a slightly thicker fabric and a full seat. And yes in this instance I do find it's worth splashing the cash.

One thing there's no excuse for though is VPL!! I know some women get rid of this problem by going commando but after reading a fellow blogger's embarrassing experience I've decided to keep my pants on when I'm in the saddle-that's the sort of exposure I don't need. I'm not a thong lover as their irritating ways grate on me, and anyway comfort aside, I still think they leave a tell tale knicker line. The drawers that get my vote are the No VPL knickers from good old M&S. But if you've got any other pants suggestions please throw them my way!!

is she or isn't she?

So, no butt, yes butt...how do you make sure your rear end doesn't frighten the horses or do you think I'm getting my knickers in a twist over nothing and it's a case of 'out of sight, out of mind?

Come and talk pants at the EQUESTRIAN STYLE FILE group at www.troton.com

lip balms for horse lovers

2012-02-13T01:42:00.000-08:00

how to embarrass your horse in public with a bit of girl on girl action

Welcome to my new addiction-lip balms. Spending a lot of time outdoors especially in this freezing cold weather, smiling wasn't a laughing matter when my lower lip split-ouch. The gloss I had in my pocket just wasn't up to the job. So sacking the gloss I went on the hunt for a product with greater pout healing powers and entered the world of the lip balm. That's when I realized I was fussier about what went on my lips than past them.

Firstly I passed on the pots-for me they're just not really a practical or hygenic option when you're working around horses, half the time I wear gloves and when I'm not my hands could probably do with a wash. But actually it's not the germs from hands that do horses that worries me so much as the human ones which are so generously spread around at this time of year-cough.

And you can poke your sticks-they're a bit too hard and waxy for me. No, give me a little tube to squeeze any day. But that's not the end of it, I want the healing goo to have a bit of shine but not be over the top. Having 'jammy' lips ain't a good thing when you're around horses. They not only seem to attract your own hair as you bend over to pick out your horse's feet or mix his feed but can get a bit gritty when you're grooming a mud lover or even hairier when he's losing his winter coat-only Frida Kahlo can carry off a lady tache in my opinion.

I also like to protect my lips from signs of aging caused by sun damage with an SPF-yes I know it's not exactly beaming down at the moment but many of us who ride spend a lot of time outside and those rays soon add up. Besides, I'm also thinking ahead to those balmy days of summer lovin'-sigh.

For starters I tried the highly recommended, extremely cheap and easily available Carmex. All the flavoured Carmex (not the original one) have an SPF15 had just the right amount of gloss for me but I don't particularly like the tingle on the lips which becomes a tingle on the tongue which you get with the Mint flavour which comes from a cooling camphor and menthol (as in Original). The cherry is a bit better but again the taste seems to seep into your mouth.

Then I read about a 'cult' balm from Jack Black which has an SPF25 and ordered one on Amazon. These products are actually formulated for men but contain a wide range mouthwatering ingredients. I decided to go for Black Tea &Blackberry. and next on my list is the Lemon & Chamomile.

Now the tube is pretty tiny which is great for sticking in a pocket but how long will it last? Well, just a small dot of the stuff gets your lips lubed up, it and it stays on for ages, it's still there after eating and drinking. And I like the consistency, slightly thicker than the Carmex, and without the tingle it felt much more soothing and my cracked lip healed up really quickly. So this little blue tube definitely gets my vote.

And don't just limit balms to your lips-they have a multitude of beautylicious uses. Squeeze a little onto your finger and use to tame unruly brows, pat onto the top part of your cheekbone as a highlighter or over powder blusher to give it a dewier look and use it as a cuticle conditioner.

Got any more suggestions for brilliant balms and their uses to feed my new found addiction? Join Equestrian Style File at Trot ON and get lippy!

Now pucker up and give that gorgeous horse a great big smacker on his delectable muzzle. Share the love and show off your photos in Have you kissed your horse today?' in the group Why Women Love Horses at Troton.com.

Be inspired by one Trot ON members Valentines Video-love it!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

hermes-me and my horse.

2012-02-04T06:54:00.000-08:00

If you're the lucky owner of a Hermes scarf or bangle then grab your camera and style an imaginative image for your chance to appear in the Hermes 'me and my horse' gallery on their website Paris Mon Ami! You don't even have to have your own horse to take part; a fashionable rocking horse or super model horse will do. Dress yourself or your equestrian partner, or create a still life but whatever you do make sure it's haute horse!

Check out the latest contributions and then add yours.

If you're a fashionable filly then join the Equestrian Style File at www.troton.com.

hang ties put men back in stocks!

2012-01-25T08:12:00.000-08:00

Just recently the director of the V&A was bemoaning the fact that once most British men have thrown off their schoolboy garb they're wearing fewer and fewer ties these days. Well, my response was 'hang ties, let's put men back in stocks'. I mean, there's something much more dashin' and debbonair about a man in a stock ain't there ladies. And so many fetchin' ways to tie 'em.......

Exhibit 1-Greg Wise as Mr Willoughby in Sense & Sensibility.

Exhibit 2- Colin Firth as Mr Darcy in Pride & Prejudice.


Exhibit 3-Rupert Penry-Jones as Mr Wentworth in Persuasion.

Exhibit 4-Andrew Buchan as William Garrow in Garrow's Law.

And I was so taken with a man in a stock-I married him. I rest my case!

If you get all hot and bothered tying a stock then check out this video-and simply get knotted instead.

sherlock+mark todd=whipping good yarn!

2012-01-14T08:59:00.000-08:00

benedict cumberbatch and lara pulver in sherlock

In my last post I managed to link Margaret Thatcher with showjumping so I was very excited when thanks to Sherlockology I discovered that there was a link between BBC's Sherlock and eventing!

The Braided Leather Riding Whip from event rider Mark Todd's equestrian collection which boasts an enhanced grip and a good wide striking end-both attributes very commendable in a good whip- has appeared in two episodes of the unmissable Sherlock. It's thwackability was tested by Sherlock in a controversial mortuary scene in A Study In Pink. Then more recently it cropped up again (sorry) in A Scandal In Belgravia, this time in the hands of dominatrix Irene Adler played by Lara Pulver. I love a versatile item don't you.

From the tack room to the bedroom this striking little number definitely has class credentials!

whip crack away-the mark todd riding crop-up close 'n' personal

Shall I tag this 'horse therapy for humans'?

Join me for more equestrian style shenanigans at www.troton.com

the iron ladies of showjumping choose animo blue

2012-01-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

blue is the colour-animo jacket seen at arena uk

As fashion goes Maggie mad (who would have thunk it?!) and The Iron Lady opens in Britain it gives me a good excuse to talk about one of my favourite colours in equestrian clothing-Thatcher Blue!

For style domination in the show jumping ring my vote goes to those leaders in tailoring with a twist Animo. Their competition jackets in a racy red (rosso) may be proving very popular but I'm swinging towards their strictly Conservative blue (bluette). Now all I need is a pussy bow competition shirt-anyone?

And just for the record, my passion for right royal blue and pussy bow blouses has nothing to do with my politics-I loathed many of Mrs T's policies. But in retrospect I do respect her for becoming the first female leader in the western world. I admire her utter conviction, her belief in her own instincts, and her hard work and drive, traits which we need to get to the top of equestrian competition. On the other hand she wasn't able to listen or collaborate both of which are essential if we want to attain a perfect partnership with a horse.

'I do not know anyone who has got to the top without hard work. That is the recipe. It will not always get you to the top, but should get you pretty near. ' Margaret Thatcher.

Please join my group Equestrian Style File at www.troton.com and tell me what colour jacket you prefer for competition power dressing!

a horse swimsuit and a hound bag!

2011-12-30T08:43:00.000-08:00

I know, call me a sadist-this is just what you don't want to look at when you're still in post Christmas pudding mode. But these swimsuits from American vintage inspired label Wildfox Couture worn by a bevy of celebs including Megan Fox and Katy Perry, might inspire you to hack a bit further or do a few more circuits round the school!

They're rather too cool just for the pool so I'd wear them with hipster jeans, shorts, leggings or skirt. If you hurry you might be able to take advantage of Ad Hoc London's discounts on Wildfox Couture. And while you're there take some time to have a browse-I'm sure you'll find some other stand out from the crowd clothes and accessories which will please the animal lover in you-such as this ever so cute Fuzzy Nation wristlet bag. Woof woof!

Thanks to Adele Mitchell, Found Beautiful Blogger and equestrienne for the tip off!

Want to talk equestrian fashion turkey then visit my Equestrian Style File at

www.troton.com.

the WAR HORSE waterproof mascara test!

2011-12-17T10:22:00.000-08:00

look into my eyes-jeremy irvine in Steven Spielberg's War Horse

Not long now!! Steven Spielberg's movie of War Horse is soon to be released in the USA on Christmas Day and on Jan 13th 2012 in the UK . Half of me can't wait to see it and the other half is dreading it. I can't watch Black Beauty, I was crying by the time the lights went up for the interval in the War Horse play and I'm on the verge of getting tearful just watching the War horse movie trailer.

So it's a dead cert I'm going to blub when I go and see the movie, the only question is, how long will it take me before I start gulping and sniffing as a prelude to full on weeping. I'm wondering if I should take my 3D glasses (left over from when I went to see Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part Deux) and put them on when I leave-there's bound to be a 3D movie on at the same time. Yeh, let's hope my fringe grows in time.

However I thought this major cinematic weepy provides a brilliant opportunity to road test our waterproof mascara. The question is- Can yours stand the War Horse Waterproof Mascara Test? Let me know on a scale of 1-10 how your's rated either by adding a comment below or by joining me in my new group Equestrian Style File on troton.com where you can add photographic or video evidence as well if you feel the need!

I've got my Pre-War Horse recommendations from Voucher Codes Most Wanted blogger Anita Naik- Benefit's BADgal Waterproof Mascara , Clarins Wonder Waterproof Mascara and The Body Shop's Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara. She also suggested a good way to hide red-rimmed eyes-Smashbox Eye Beam double-ended brightener-one of her Party Season Hero Products which has definitely gone on my wish list.

Anyway just to get you in the mood, you've probably seen it already, but hell, if you're like me you just can't get enough of it...the clothes horse proudly presents....a trailer of the forthcoming War Horse THE MOVIE, sob sob!

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

trot ON scores top marks

2011-12-14T05:10:00.000-08:00

rider text long sleeved t-shirt

I feel like letting off a high whinny I'm so smitten with these cool tops from the troton.com' hot stuff' collection. The people behind troton.com have taken their talent for design one step further and given a much needed stylish kick to the equestrian t-shirt market.

I'm definitely getting myself the txt speak for riders t-shirt (above) which includes MMA-moody mare alert-yep I use that one a lot when talking about myself as well as my mare, and MHTS-more horses than sense-enough said! And I also want the hoofprint (troton's logo) and stars top (below) very war horse meets Dolce & Gabbana!!

hoofprint and stars long sleeved t-shirt

So, if you want to treat yourself or a horse lovin' friend to something a bit different, take a look at the full collection. They've also got some cool tops for pony mad kids and the cutest baby bodysuits that definitely have the 'ahhhh' factor!

filly baby's bodysuit

let's roll!

2011-11-21T05:36:00.001-08:00

marilyn monroe

Roll necks or polo necks, whatever you want to call them, have rocked back onto the catwalk and into fashion. If you think they're highly un-sexy and shout boring then just take a look at Marilyn Monroe above. Off screen Marilyn had an understated style but she still managed to look hot as hell!

I used to work with a very talented stylist years ago who made it her mission to get me out of jeans and dress me up. As we trawled Portobello Road Market in search of clothes for shoots she would hold things up and say, 'you must have this', and I found myself strangely powerless to resist! Some of my favourite items from our hunts were cashmere polo necks which not only looked effortlessly chic but they kept me toasty warm as well. She also marched me into a huntin' shootin' and fishin' type shop somewhere off Regent Street for a 'must have' thermal silk polo neck. Now believe it or not they did look very cool as they were silky and a little bit see thru. Which brings me onto an important point about polo necks-make sure you're wearing a good bra as that's what stops you looking or saggy 'n' baggy and a bit all over the place. They also look at their best with skinny jeans, slim fit trousers or a pencil skirt.

So lots of reasons why I think polo necks are a star buy for us equestriennes-you can wear them for riding and then whip off your breeches, do a quick change and you're ready to go.

I've recently discovered the Uniqlo Heattech range - these thermals both feel lovely and look good too. On extra cold days the polo neck would make a great alternative to a a stock shirt-not only do they give you an extra layer around your neck but because they're so thin they're brilliant if you're finding your show or hunting jacket is a tad on the tight side!

It's also amazing how warm one cashmere sweater can be-which means you can start shedding some layers and stop looking like the michelin man.

Uniqlo do a good cashmere polo neck in a wide array of colours. The extra good news is that they're on special offer at the moment too!

For beatnik chic a la Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face-love that scene where she dances in a jazz club-the intelligent choice is black. But I prefer white, not only is it good for brightening the complexion on wintry days but I love the way it looks futuristic and reminds me of a fencing outfit-a sort of swashbuckling Princess Leia look!


the queen of cool audrey hepburn in paris shooting funny face

And if you want to be dinging the trendometer wear your hair in a loose low pony tail and leave it tucked into the back of your polo neck so it looks like a bob.

Will you be polo necking it this winter?

equestriennes who dare to dazzle

2011-10-28T09:01:00.000-07:00

lady in red-what a nerve!

I just received an email from one of my fashion faves Top Shop. The subject matter was' Dare to Dazzle'. It's one of those expressions that's strange but true isn't it. Why is it daring to dazzle? Probably because many women don't feel confident enough to twinkle, let alone dazzle. We'd rather dress down and not draw attention to ourselves in case we get mocked for dressing above ourselves!

And why am I writing about it here? Well, it's because even though I'm quite happy to wear attention grabbing clothes in my life outside horses (is there such a thing?), I suddenly realised that when it came to my riding gear, until I started to write this blog I was definitely an equestrian wallflower. I was doing my best to be invisible simply because I didn't feel I had the right to wear anything particularly eye catching or expensive and that's because I didn't think that I was a good enough rider.

It wasn't something that I did consciously but now I can see what I was doing because NOW, I'm doing quite the opposite. If I take a shine to that show shirt I spotted on a top rider then I'll hunt it down, buy it and and wear it. Why shouldn't I have those long gorgeous looking Italian boots that cost a fortune? (Well, I may have to save for those). Why should I think they're too good for me? And you know, the weird thing is, the more I've spent on stylish looking equestrian clothing, and the more effort I've made to dress up not down, the more confident I have become as a rider.

As the ad says....'because you're worth it.'

So do you relate to anything I've said? Are you afraid to look like you've got all the gear and no idea?

For more contemporary equestrianism go to www.troton.com

show jumping fashionistas

2011-10-12T08:24:00.000-07:00

olivia dales in KEP helmet with swarovski crystal trim

I was in equestrian fashion heaven at Arena UK Showjumping Championships in Sept. Not only was I surrounded by showjumping talent from grassroots to the top guns but everywhere I looked riders were competing against each other in the style stakes too. It seems many show jumpers are fearless when it comes to standing out from the equestrian crowd and the top end clothing designers are certainly coming up with the goods. Let's just hope some of these ideas filter down into some of the cheaper brands who still seem to think boring is best! Anyway to prove what a difference some stylish details can make-here's a selection of the best turned out....

oh so cool contrasts and cavalry style seams from equiport

the best boots have all the trimmings-anyone know who these croc topped pair are by?

ruff ruff-this Kingsland venice ladies show shirt is on my wish list

rock chic belts plus bootilicious breeches from Gersemi

SSG bling bling gloves

And of course horses don't forget our four legged friends...

tantrums and tiaras-head turning browbands

handbag sized dogs with glam accessories and attitude

Thanks to Nicky Bethell for her photos- fab-u-lous darling!

For more contemporary equestrianism go to www.troton.com

mane 'n' tail-the greatest shampoo ever sold!

2011-10-03T05:58:00.000-07:00

is she or isn't she?

When a fellow equestrienne walks past you with a toss of her gloriously thick and lustrous hair have you ever found yourself thinking 'is she or isn't she......using her horses shampoo and conditioner?' If you live in the UK then you're probably thinking 'are you crazy' as you back away slowly, but if you live in the US of A it's not such a mad question to ask thanks to a product range called Mane 'n' Tail.

The name Mane 'n' tail reared up and grabbed my attention because of its starring role in indie filmaker Morgan Spurlock's latest documentary offering The Greatest Movie Ever Sold. Spurlock who made the oscar nominated Supersize Me, has now turned his lens on product placement in a film which has been fully funded by product placement!

Original Mane 'n' Tail Shampoo and Original Mane 'n' Tail Conditioner were concocted for show horses but a few of the grooms experiencing serious hair envy decided to try it on themselves. The results were so impressive-not only does it make hair thicker and shinier but some claim it makes hair grow faster too- that word spread and now these products are used by horses and humans alike.

Today Mane 'n' Tail has a legion of two legged fans including celebs, Jennifer Aniston and Sarah Jessica Parker. Also Morgan Spurlock's father, Ben, has been using it for ages to make sure the horses he keeps on his West Virginian farm look their bloomin' best.

There's a similar story behind Mane 'n' Tail's Hoofmaker. You guessed it, grooms rubbing it into their horses feet to improve their condition noticed that dry hands and split brittle nails became a thing of the past for them too.

Some women may roll their eyes and say neigh, neigh and thrice neigh to the idea of using a product made for horses on themselves. But remind them, before they get too sniffy, that Elizabeth Arden originally made her Eight Hour Cream for her racehorse's hooves. Today you'd be hard pressed to find a beauty editor or top make-up artist who doesn't keep this multipurpose balm in her grooming kit.

I'm of the opinion, if it's good enough for my horse then it's good enough for me just as long as my mares realize it doesn't always work the other way round and they're welcome to a bit of suncream but it's hooves off the Eve Lom!

Have you ever let equine products go to your head, dipped your digits into hoof conditioner or got your beauty fix from your horses grooming kit in any way?

me 'n' my mare having a bad hair day!

Go to www.troton.com

ASOS rides out in style

2011-09-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

felt hat with wide grosgrain ribbon £25

Fashion is horsing around this season with a stable of equestrian inspired style. So giddy up and get ahead of the field with these cheap 'n' chic accessories from online fashion store ASOS.

Peaking my whinnyometer is the navy felt riding style hat shown above, which will look great when trotting around town.

This bag may be small but if you're a horse loving girl it's perfectly formed.

across body bag £20

Belts are a particular passion of mine as they can instantly add extra marks for dress'age style. Check out these belters....
.

This is the season to embrace your waist so you'll have fashion cinched with this tantalising design.

tan coloured webbing and ring wide belt £15

For a bit on the side this belt will add instant style to your jeans or breeches. I bought a similar style at the Suffolk Show last year and wear it all the time.

bit style buckle belt £15

And reveal your inner disco diva with this little pony belt -a frisky attention grabber at any party.

pony buckle skinny belt £8

Right, the window grazing is over-this filly has some serious shopping to do!

For more contemporary equestrianism go to www.troton.com

express yourself eventing-burghley horse trials

2011-09-05T00:56:00.000-07:00

Striding round the cross country course and sidestepping through the shopping village I was swimming against a tide of the usual suspects of equestrian style. But there were a few who knew how to stand out from the crowd.....

Claire Grange definitely has a head for being different. I loved her bright red hair which she'd clipped back with sugary pink flowers. She also wears some very cool Dubarry boots (a 21st B'day pressie purchased at this year's Burghley-lucky her) with skinny jeans, her sixth form hoodie and a pashmena (Burghley 2010.)

Rebecca Branton got my vote for best turned out with this vintage look blouse from Asos, wrangler jeans, belt a present from Africa, and Ariat Sport Clogs.

Sophie Fulton mixes things up by wearing a girly floral dress which she bought cheap in a local boutique with her checked riding jacket by Anky and a toning floral bag from Accessorize. I'm definitely putting that jacket on my shopping list.

I shall be out style spotting at big equestrian events soon-so watch out.

For more contemporary equestrianism go to www.troton.com

FITS-the new twist on riding breeches

2011-08-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help be pulled in by the blurb "Once you wear FITS, you will never ride in anything else again." But then when I saw the price, cough, splutter, I did a bit more investigating to try and decide if these 'revolutionary' breeches really did live up to the hype.

They seemed to be the answer to something that really irritates me; feeling restricted when I ride. Granted I prefer to wear full seat breeches, but full seat or not, once I'd got my leg over I constantly found myself yanking at them to try and get more comfortable. And no, before you say it, I didn't need to buy a larger size!

OK, I did come across some forum where riders were getting their breeches in a twist over the FITS bum patches, yawn, but having worked in fashion for years I'm certainly not afraid to wear anything different.

Anyway fairly convinced that they sounded a wise investment I purchased my first pair from Robinsons (so far the only place that seems to stock them in the UK) in a very practical chocolate brown. And yes, having ridden in them every day since April I can safely say that they were well worth it! They're not only uber comfortable, providing an amazing freedom of movement (oh no, it's starting to sound like a sanitary pad ad) but they look smart and are really hard wearing. The pooh brown pair were a particularly good choice, and even doggy paw prints or brambles don't seem to have made their mark. The only problem I encountered to begin with was the unnerving feeling that I hadn't got anything on!

Unfortunately they did prove an expensive addiction as now I 'never want to ride in anything else again.' I went back to Robinsons for a competition pair and now I'm winning everything.

Actually that last part was a lie!

horsing around

2011-08-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

I've done a quick canter round the online shops (yes,any excuse) and rounded up a trio of hot to trot items that should satisfy the fashion cravings of horsey mad gals who shy away from designer price tags.

Be a fairground attraction in a frisky carousel horse print dress, £35 from asos (above). I just love the ruched sleeves and the orange skinny belt set against a background of cobalt blue.

And because the future for a brighter autumn/winter is definitely orange, inject some of this on trend colour into your wardrobe by grabbing this across the body bag, £28, from Top Shop. Featuring a snaffle bit fastening in a Hermes-esque hue this bag ticks all the boxes.

You can't have enough friendship bracelets it would seem at the moment so add to your collection by slipping this charming horse version by Orelia £10, from Asos onto your wrist.

Or if you really want to save some pennies, get knotting and have a go at making your own!

girls on top

2011-07-27T01:01:00.000-07:00

edie campbell-from clothes horse to

celebrity jockey

Forget the red carpet, for female celebs the place to be seen is gliding along a swathe of green turf. It seems there's a new trend in the air which involves dressing in silks and having a fit, well bred partner with a winning gleam in his eye.

The 'in crowd' no longer want to be seen as frilly fillies whose only challenge at the races is looking good and managing to stay upright on skyscraper heels all day. Instead they want to test their nerve, and experience the thrill and glamour of riding high, as a female jockey.

This Friday, July 28th Glorious Goodwood on the Sussex Downs will be featuring its first Celebrity Ladies Race. Lining up against full time equestriennes Laura Bechtolsheimer(dressage), Francesca Cumani( racing) and Clare Milford Haven (polo) will be part time riders Radio 1 DJ Sarah Cox, Burberry model Edie Campbell (pictured above), actress and wife of Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason, Nettie Lynton, Tatler Editor Kate Reardon, businesswoman Dido Harding and racing commentator Emma Spencer.

They will be dressed in silks designed by Hermes, Amanda Wakeley, Jasmine Guinness, Issa (The Duchess of Cambridge's favourite) and Pearl Lowe and will be attended by celebrity grooms: Elizabeth Hurley, BBC presenter Kate Silverton, Madeleine Lloyd Webber, skier Chemmy Alcott and TV and radio presenter Natalie Pinkham.

Don't think the celebs who are mounting up won't be going all out to sashay back into the winners enclosure. They've been training hard in the gym and on the gallops.

The 'it' girl of racing at the moment has to be Hayley Turner. Not only does she look good but she rides a mean flat race and has a winning personality too. Despite the fact that many girls ride out at race yards, female jockeys still have a hard fight to be taken seriously and given good rides.

carlisle's angels-laura pike, hayley turner, sophie doyle

However, Carlisle racecourse has definitely decided that female jocks are the way forward and on Aug 1st will hold the world's first ever all-female race evening. Amateur and professional riders will compete in six races (including a charity race for Breast Cancer Care and the Breast Cancer Campaign), and punters will also be entertained with a fashion celebration, and a concert by X Factor winner Alexandra Burke. Let's hope that amidst all the fun, this 'ultimate ladies night' showcases the talents of female riders, and owners and trainers start to see that girls on top can be winners!

i'm dreaming of designer riding gear....

2011-07-11T06:26:00.000-07:00

no 1 gucci girl-edwina alexander

I had a pang of girly jealousy when I read that Charlotte Casiraghi and Edwina Alexander were getting their riding kit designed for them by Frida Giannini at Gucci. Why them, why not me!! Actually don't answer that, it's all too easy to see why they would want their clothes worn by these two lady riders; Edwina Alexander is the number one female show jumper in the world and Charlotte Casiraghi, although an amateur, is Monaco Royalty and definitely hasn't been hit with the ugly stick!

a royal gucci girl-caroline casiraghi

Now I couldn't afford to wear Gucci, but wouldn't it be nice to wear competition gear that a good, creative imagination had worked their magic on? In my dream world, well designed riding wear would be like good menswear-functional with a good cut and fabrics, no major deviations from the basic but just offered up with a twist. The difference would be in the detail.

I'm all for updating the traditional but I'm sure there are a lot of you who would disagree with me, having read 'shocked and horrified' forum 'tuttings' over short, butt revealing show jumping jackets and those 'what's the world coming to' marmite of riding boots made by Tretorn. Both are worn with style by the talented Malin Baryard Johnsson who is sponsored by one of my high street fashion favourites H&M. Now, wouldn't it be great if they came out with an affordable but fashionable line of riding clothes?

malin baryard johnsson

Maybe that's why I've always like show jumping-at the top end of the game they've never shied away from a new fashion.

Another equine sport jostling for a place in the style stakes is horse racing. Jockeys silks which haven't changed much since the 18th century recently got a make-over thanks to an initiative by Racing for Change who are working towards attracting a larger audience to horse racing. Last Saturday Jockeys at Ascot lined up in silks designed by the finalists of a competition for graphic design students from Central St Martins College of Art and Design in London.


henry griffin hits the jackpot

The winning designs by Henry Griffin were inspired by trips to the bookies with his dad and feature stylised fruit machine symbols, the number seven and a lucky horseshoe.

Great, lets see more imagination put into the design of equestrian clothing please! Do you agree?

singin and dancin in the rain..

2011-06-23T01:03:00.000-07:00

model Lily Donaldson

What a surprise! As Glastonbury kicks off, even though we're well into June, it's been raining hard and we're back to mud, mud, glorious mud. But I think the variable weather is one of the reasons that I like festival fashion so much because it leads to an eclectic mix of dressed up, dressed down clothing which I think the Brits are so good at.

And for the past few seasons taking centre stage of this mish mash of fashion frippery, glam garb and practical clothing are two country essentials-the Hunter Original welly and the Barbour jacket.

Nicola Roberts of Girls Aloud

Both classics of the country set that always had a whiff of 'stuff and nonsense' and wet dog about them, they are still holding their own with festival goers as cool items to be seen in when the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Peaches Geldof and Lily Allen

The good news is that most of us horse lovin' girls have these items in our wardrobe already, and if not probably have a relative we can cadge them off. Unfortunately, when I went to search for our family Barbour, I found it had been a victim of a recent clothes culling. But never mind it gave me an excuse to go on a hunt for its sexier sister, the biker styled Barbour International. So grab those wellies and a wax jacket, mix it up with a little prom or sundress, short shorts and eye catching top.

Fearne Cotton

So, dress up, then dress it down and make a splash in the style stakes.

long live the headscarf!

2011-06-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

The headscarf has had a renaissance in style circles recently. Not that the Queen is influenced by such fickle things as fashion. Images of our monarch abound with a scarf tied primly under her chin whilst in the countryside, at the races or out riding. In fact the pro hat brigade tried to whip up a storm about her riding in a scarf just recently. Off with their heads I say!

Despite the attempts of many a stylist to bring back this look, they have failed. Let's face it, it isn't an easy one to pull off. Luckily there are many more ways to wear a headscarf which don't make you look like someone's granny, even if it is a right royal one.

Caroline Casiraghi at the Gucci Masters

Last year was the first time I truly coveted a designer silk headscarf. I was at the the Gucci Masters, in Paris, chatting to someone from their press office who had Gucci's latest equestrian inspired design slung effortlessly, in a renegade punk style (knot at the back), round his neck. Then as I watched the Style And Competition Challenge, out strode Caroline Casiraghi and her team mate Edwina Alexander looking very chic in outfits designed by Gucci's Gina Giannini, their red green and gold scarves adding a dandyish flair.

Hermes 'J'aime Mon Carre'

Another company with equestrianism at it's designer roots is Hermes. And last year they started a campaign to give their iconic scarves a youthful kick up the derriere. Called J'aime Mon Carre it encouraged cool young fashionistas to come up with new ways to wear one of their silk squares that were more street style, than county set. They re-start in July, so watch out.

So whether you tie yours round your neck, your head or your waist, onto your bag or the dog get hold of an equestrian themed silk headscarf now. Really, it has to be Hermes or Gucci.

And yes I know they're pretty damned pricey but you can bag a bargain secondhand if you're willing to search shops or ebay. I mean, I managed to get myself a Burberry mac at an amazing price didn't I? And if that's still too much effort then Joules official Badminton silk scarf is worth a look.

For more tips on how to tie scarves check out videos by MrsScarfTips. Here she is showing us how to tie a Hermes Bandeau Fleur-love it!

Oh, and take note-size does matter!

horses also come in...pink!

2011-05-23T04:27:00.000-07:00

What's with all this girly pinkness? Now I like a little bit of pink, but it has to be the right shade to be cool. Whilst pony princesses can't seem to get enough of it, now Disney actress and popstar Selena Gomez has gone one step further and had horses painted pink for the video of her latest single "I love you like a love song."

Unfortunately for Selena, this has unleashed a Twitter attack from fellow popstar, Pink, who despite her name, doesn't think all things should be of a sugary complexion. Spying the pinked up ponies on a Malibu beach she called on animal activists like PETA to join in. Oh gawd, don't rattle their cage!

Now, my objections are on the grounds of taste, but is it cruel? According to a rep for Selena Gomez an official from the Humane Society was on set supervising and a "non toxic, vegetable based powder paint" was used and "washed off with water". But PETA told Celebuzz 'there are no safe ways to paint a live horse or any other animal; they can have painful allergic reactions to chemicals and there's no way to know how an individual animal will react."

I wonder then, do PETA go around accusing Equine Colleges, who teach anatomy by getting students to paint horses, of cruelty? Or what about experts like Gillian Higgins, of Horses Inside Out, who travels the country giving educational talks on how horses move with the help of a lick or two of horse friendly paint? I hope not.

Or is this just a lot of hullabaloo over a girly hue, and a chance to bitch about a girl whose greatest crime is going out with Justin Bieber? Mmm back to that question of taste!

What do you think about painting ponies pink, or any other colour for that matter? Have your say HERE

roll up roll up-the show girls are in town!

2011-05-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have to admit it, I was one of those kids that dreamed of running away with the circus. There's something romantically dark and exotic about them, and the trick trainers and riders are the glamour girls of equestrianism.

So, having just read the book, I will definitely be joining the queue to watch Water For Elephants, just so I can become, if for a few hours only, the gorgeous Marlena, played by Reese Witherspoon, admired for her beauty, horsemanship skills, and a wardrobe full of knockout frocks-if only, sigh!

Also top of my list of must sees this year is Giffords circus, which sounds magical. Based on a 1930's style circus, the same era in which Water For Elephants is set, but without the exotic animals it still boasts a few horses and the romantic charm, and thrills and spills of circus's of yesteryear. Nell Gifford the founder and ring-mistress (see below) certainly has her fair share of covetable show stopping outfits .

Photo by Brian Moody

So what excuse do I have for swapping my jodhpurs for fishnets apart from running away and joining the circus? I hope I don't live to regret asking that question!

And have you ever cast off the usual equestrian garb and ridden your horse in something a bit more glamorous? Add a comment or click and discuss HERE -you can add photos if you have them so I can ooh and ahhh.

Let the show go on!

blingtastic-it's the royal wedding

2011-04-28T05:31:00.000-07:00

Dress rehearsals

Well, I thought I better get in the spirit of things and get ready for the Royal Wedding of William and Kate. Mmmm, I take it my invite got lost in the post so I shall be slumming it with the rest of them at our village party. Now what shall I wear........?

As my tiara might look a bit OTT, I thought I could go for a bit of equine inspired bling!

For Luck...

A sworovski crystal horseshoe pendant

Say I do, I do, I do, I do, I do, I dooooo....

...... to this horse head ring.

And don't think the horse is getting away with it. Bottoms up to the bride and groom!

This Royal Crown stencil was actually made for an undisclosed royal customer. Any guesses?

But hey, who needs a prince anway!

Say it like it is with this silver logo hoodie.

Sorry I couldn't resist!

my little red riding mac

2011-04-06T06:22:00.000-07:00

I've won, I've won!!! No unfortunately not some major competition, but, but, but, a fab-u-lous red Burberry riding mac on ebay, and for a rock bottom price too.

I was tipped off by a friend (I owe you one!!) who'd read one of my earlier posts about coveting a red riding mac, and as if by magic, Mr Benn style, one duly appeared in my size. I went from ebay virgin to addict in a couple of adrenalized bidding hours.

It's secondhand but in perfect condition,and has legstraps and a vent at the back so it sits neatly over the saddle. The only drawback is, I love it so much, I don't want to risk getting any mud on it!

So my advice is-don't be afraid to be a secondhand rose.

Got any good tips for cleaning riding macs?

yeh or neigh?

2011-03-23T01:39:00.000-07:00

Leona Lewis, X-Factor winner and multi-platinum selling artist was the mane attraction when she posed on the red carpet in LA recently at the annual Genesis Awards which honours people who raise awareness of animal issues.

Leona, a veggie and animal rights supporter is also a great big horse luvver and has even gone as far as having that passion permanently inked on her skin.

First she revealed this poetic tribute to the horse running down her back-

                                           Their beauty captures every eye,
                             a gift from God for all mankind,
                                           they lend us wings so we may fly,
                                           to ride a horse is to ride the sky.

Then she had a tiny horseshoe tattooed onto her left wrist.

Leona also hit the headlines over the last few years when she had to delay recording her second album thanks to a headbutting horse-ouch! And then ended up on crutches when she took a tumble from her horse Goose-Ow, Ow!

But this obviously hasn't stopped Leona from horsing around!! For me this dress is a bit of a 'neigh' but maybe I shouldn't be so stuck up, it is a bit of fun and good on her for giving her love for horses a public outing!

If her dress is a 'yeh' for you then you may like this dress from Mika Organic made from organic cotton, I actually prefer it in these more natural tones.

Care for the environment, the planet and animals are the inspiration behind Mika Machida's collection so I think Leona would approve. Check out the rest of her designs if you dare to be different.

Yeh, or neigh? Let me know.

fancy a flutter?

2011-03-16T01:53:00.000-07:00

As it's Cheltenham week here in the UK what better way to celebrate it than with a flutter. No, not with a bet on the gee gee's you silly mare, but by batting these crazy but I love 'em false eyelashes with horses on them by Paperself. Inspired by Chinese paper-cutting, each of their intricate designs has symbolic meaning rooted in Chinese culture, horses being a symbol of success. Definitely a winner if you've got the nerve to wear them!

One girl who probably would dare is the uber cool Natasha Khan from Bat for Lashes. Anyway it gives me a good opportunity to add this video of her singing the fab-u-lous 'Horse and I' live at the Shepherds Bush Empire. Listen, enjoy and download it now!!

equestrian prints on parade

2011-03-11T07:15:00.000-08:00

I've always been a shirty kind of 'gal and think they look really effortlessly chic just teamed with a pair of jeans and heels.

A good shirt or blouse (such a funny word blouse-I always imagine Edmund Blackadder rolling it out of his mouth really slowly) will stay in my wardrobe for years. My most wearable favourite is a white cotton voile victoriana shirt, which I couldn't bear to part with when it wore so thin it started to tear, so I hacked off the sleeves to give it a fluted cap sleeve effect. The other is a nude coloured satin pussy bow blouse, a Portobello find from over ten years ago, which gets trotted out at least once a season (it has to be dry cleaned and is pretty ancient so only get's let out of the wardrobe on special occasions). It's old fashioned glamour even returned to form when it showed up as a key piece in the 2010/11 Chloe collection. See, you can't keep a good shirt down!

So now I've gone back to my pony lovin' roots I was more than a tad pleased to see that a few of this seasons shirts have been run over with horsey prints. I particularly like the Joules ruffle fronted vintage racing print version which comes in a delicate silk mix semi-sheer fabric and would look good day or night. And check out their flirty little tiered skirt in the same fabric which would look good worn with a simple vest. The River Island beige cotton shirt below would be an easy option for day to day wear.

If you catch a sighting of any more equestrian prints cantering into view then please give me a whinny!

pony tails

2011-03-07T01:16:00.000-08:00

Jean Pierre Braganza

Yeah, yeah, tell us something we don't know-pony tails are cool! Well it seems that the fashion world and celebrity stylists have caught on, as pony tails flicked, and swayed on the heads of models and celebrities alike, down the catwalk and red carpet just recently.

Wear 'em high or wear 'em low, well groomed into sleek sophistication or 'textured' as hairdressers like to call it, which translated means looking like you've been pulled through a hedge backwards or finished a day's hunting! The latter seems to come naturally to me despite a grooming kit of hair gels, glosses and sprays.

Burberry-Prorsum

The high pony gives a playful, sassy, I'm up for a bit of fun look, whilst the low pony is more sophisticated. Pump up the volume by blowdrying first with a round brush and don't be afraid to add some hair extensions if you want a bouncing show stopping pony tail- ask your horse if you can borrow his. Rough things up with a spot of back combing, or sleek into place with a high shine gloss. For an extra edge give a low sixties side parting, a la Twiggy. Finally keep hair accessories simple with same coloured grips and bungees which can be covered with your own hair. Or turn heads by wrapping with some black leather or pvc and team with a punky take on the sloane head band. One thing's for sure the scrunchy is OUT!

Whatever you chose, horse girls should reclaim the pony tail and prove there are no flies on us when it comes to style!

picture this...

2011-02-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

This eye-catching one piece from super cool Aussie designers We Are Handsome has to be the ultimate horsey girl's swimsuit. Whether you want to make a splash in the pool or get yourself some attention on the beach it's definitely one for fillies with an adventurous spirit. Rihanna wore their Panther Print whilst holidaying in Barbados and she's definitely not the nervous type!

You might shy at the price-not cheap at £195 from Harvey Nichols, but it would definitely look good in the summer with a pair of hipster jeans or shorts too. And you never know if you can't afford the real deal, because there's always something you really need to buy your horse isn't there, then keep your eyes peeled for a good high street rip off. Whinny if you see one!

the mac packs style!

2011-01-16T00:10:00.000-08:00

When I was about twelve I was in lust with a stone coloured, long, belted riding mac that sat elegantly in the small ads of the horse magazine I read at the time. I never got one as my pocket money at the time only stretched to hoof picks and plastic curry combs (it's a sad life!) but my love for that classic, the mac, never went away.
So what is it about the mac that I love so much-or shouldn't I enquire too deeply? Ok I'll admit it, it's definitely the masculine, military element. When you put on a classically styled mac you put on a chic uniform that links you to the past in it's flatteringly crafted practicality. In a word you feel smart! And smart isn't a word I attach very often to my day to day equestrian attire. But is it time to dress up not down?
At Pony Club Camp where our instructors were colonels and captains we had a morning inspection of our outfits. I used to love polishing my boots and badge and getting dressed had a sense of timeless ritual that made me feel prepared to face the day with pride and confidence. Only the other day I discovered that one of the female doyennes of our PC made her son ride out every day in a shirt, tie and hacking jacket. And one of my friends who worked in London would ride out in Hyde Park in 'proper' attire. Do we owe it to our horses to be better turned out? Is it practical?
Anyway back to the mac. I was reminded of my love affair when I attended the extremely stylish Gucci Masters in Paris last year and caught a flash of the rider in the photo above, as she strode out of the arena. Typical-I'd been too busy talking at the time! If you know who it was and where I can get this hot little red number then please tell me.
The fashion world has always loved a mac. Burberry has re-invented itself as the new cool and this wednesday sees the launch of the first ever Mackintosh store in Mayfair hoping to do the same. The worlds first waterproof fabric was invented by a Scottish Scientist Charles Macintosh(the K was kicked into the garments name) in 1823 and the first item of clothing his company produced was a riding mac with internal leg straps. The fabric has gone on to be used in designs by amongst others Gucci, Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga. So, isn't it time us equestriennes snatched a bit of that style back?
This is an equestrian classic I'd like to see revived. Style wise it definitely knocks a puffa jacket off it's horse. Do you agree?

tack shop blues

2011-01-07T08:13:00.000-08:00

Having a bit of Christmas money sitting in my purse itching to be spent I took myself along to my local tack shop, which has to be one of the biggest in the country, to find myself some new riding clothes. I sort of knew what I was going to be faced with but went through the doors anyway with some kind of vague hope that I would be, might be, please, please, please, met by if not a wardrobe full of 'must-haves', at least a couple of items of clothing I couldn't wait to try on. But no, I stared forlornly at rack upon rack of the same tired designs in dreary colours with the odd splash of pink rearing it's over used head in between. With a hood or without a hood? Plain rugby short or striped rugby shirt? Frisky filly or moody mare? Ugh, what a decision....
Let's just say, even my mother who was with me at the time remarked "oh dear, this is a bit boring." I know I'm not a teenager anymore but that remark still hit home and had me bolting for the door!
And I realise I'm not walking into Browns or Selfridges (if only) but surely someone can come up with some edgier designs, and I don't mean more Katie Price bling or pink thanks very much!
OK maybe you think I'm paddling in the shallow end of the pool here and should have better things to think about like does my mare need an extra inch off her tail? Or should I get a bib to stop her getting tack rubs? But now I spend so much time in horsey attire I would like to look in the mirror, or more usually my reflection in someone's window as I ride past and not want to trot on quite so quickly! Or use quite so many exclamation marks!! Vain maybe but the longer I'm away from my previous life in fashion the more I appreciate its flair and creativity and I want a bit of that back in my horsey life. So here's my attempt to find it by taking a look at the good, the bad, and the downright ugly side of equestrian fashion. If you feel the same way as I do then please come along for the ride.