Equestrian Dressing Reloaded: a fresh twist on the classic look
Hold onto your cowboy hats, ladies! Equestrian dressing is about to gallop into your wardrobe in full force this season. Blending the polished heritage vibe of riding gear with a hint of rugged outdoor charm, this look is perfect for embracing the season’s chill with chic sophistication. Think tailored blazers, knee-high boots, and all the plaid you can handle—equestrian style has officially jumped out of the stable and onto the style scene.
Rooted in tradition, the timeless equestrian style gives provides maximum mix-and-match versatility with minimal pieces. When done right, it’s a look that’s effortlessly chic without sacrificing comfort.
This A/W season, say adieu to strictly country club and hello to this season’s bold remix on equestrian chic.
Fall's most stylish evolution of this classic is all about attitude, adding an urban edge with crop tops, boyfriend cuts, and some daring pops of jewel and citrus tones peeking through.
Think classic blazers layered over vibrant turtlenecks, or tailored riding pants styled with relaxed tees—unexpected twists that add personality to timeless pieces. Whether you’re brunching in the city or heading for a weekend getaway, this updated equestrian look delivers that polished-meets-cool vibe everyone’s craving.
The Trend's Rise: Where It All Started
Equestrian style has been simmering under the radar for years, inspired by countryside classics and elite riding apparel. But what really tipped it into the mainstream? A rise in interest in heritage styles and a push toward sustainable fashion, where investment pieces are essential. Iconic movies like The Queen's Gambit and Atonement gave this look a vintage, retro twist, while TV shows like Emily in Paris have hinted at luxe, polished outerwear, especially in recent seasons.
Picture yourself wrapped in soft tweeds and tailored jackets, paired with fitted trousers and accessories that nod to classic riding gear. It’s a look as versatile as it is chic, fitting seamlessly into both city life and countryside getaways. From brunch outings to weekend escapes, equestrian style delivers a confident, elegant aesthetic you’ll want to wear on repeat.
"Equestrian dressing offers a timeless appeal that blends sophistication with a relaxed elegance. It’s a trend that flatters a wide range of shapes, thanks to its structured fi"
From Stable to Street : How Equestrian Took Off
Equestrian style isn’t new; it’s a timeless look inspired by elite riding attire designed for function and form. Its journey to the mainstream started with classic cinema and countryside heritage, blending practicality with style. But recently, its appeal surged thanks to a rise in vintage-inspired looks, with brands focusing on durability and sustainable investment pieces.
Movies like Atonement and hit shows like The Queen's Gambit have given a fresh spotlight to the tailored elegance of equestrian looks, while TV shows like Emily in Paris have brought them into modern urban settings. This aesthetic, often found in the wardrobes of fashion-forward characters, has solidified equestrian style as a go-to for cold-weather chic.
Celebs Rocking the Look
Celebrities are trotting out equestrian style in both casual and polished ways, proving just how versatile this trend is. Last month, Kendall Jenner was spotted in Los Angeles heading to a business meeting in West Hollywood, wearing a fitted tweed blazer by Ralph Lauren over a crisp white turtleneck, paired with high-waisted jodhpurs from Saint Laurent and black leather riding boots by The Row—a fresh, city twist on countryside chic.
Gigi Hadid, meanwhile, stepped out from her SoHo apartment in New York City on her way to a photo shoot. She wore a double-breasted, fitted blazer by Burberry, paired with sleek leather jodhpurs from Alexander McQueen, and knee-high brown boots by Jimmy Choo, perfectly balancing edge with elegance. Zendaya elevated equestrian glam in Paris just before a press event, donning a tailored wool coat by Stella McCartney with structured leather gloves from Hermès and high-waisted trousers by Celine for a refined, modern look that captured luxury and timelessness. Each celeb shows just how easily equestrian style adapts, whether for brunch, errands, or fashion events.
your cheat sheet to effortless styling
- Start with a crisp button-down shirt as a base layer.
- Add a tailored blazer or structured coat for instant polish.
- Choose knee-high boots or leather ankle boots to anchor the look.
- Stick to neutral tones —think tan, cream, and earthy hues.
- Complete the look with minimal accessories like a harness belt or subtle scarf.
- Mix materials and textures for balance.
- Stay away from overly baggy fits that lose shape.
- Avoid heavy accessories that can overwhelm the outfit.
- Bright, flashy colours don’t align with the elegant nature of this look BUT you might consider strategically incorporating a surprising accent piece for conceptual contrast
Why We’re Obsessed with the saddle-chic aesthetic
Equestrian style is all about sophistication with comfort, blending high-quality materials and timeless silhouettes. With tailored blazers, durable leather pieces, and relaxed countryside vibes, it’s both effortlessly chic and wearable. This is a look you can dress up for special occasions or dial down for day-to-day wear—perfect for those who value classic fashion without compromising on functionality.
What’s more, equestrian-inspired pieces make excellent wardrobe staples. With their enduring appeal, these pieces can be styled across multiple seasons. Structured jackets and refined accessories create an elevated look without overwhelming your wardrobe, proving why this style deserves a place in every closet.
a modern interpretation of an iconic look
Adding a modern spin to equestrian style is all about balancing timeless elegance with unexpected twists. Keep the classic blazer and high-waisted trousers, but consider swapping a sequined crop top for the traditional turtleneck, adding a hint of sparkle beneath the tailored layers.
Another approach is to replace riding pants with a pleated miniskirt, maintaining the refined feel of tall boots and a crisp button-down shirt. These subtle, playful switches give the equestrian look a fresh, fashion-forward edge, perfect for expressing individuality while still honouring the timeless sophistication of the style.
riding style rules to remember
Fuse Classics with Modern Touches : Blend traditional pieces like tailored blazers and riding boots with modern touches to make the trend uniquely yours. Think a pleated miniskirt in place of jodhpurs or a cropped jacket paired with high-waisted trousers. Adding just one unexpected piece helps keep the outfit fresh.
Stick with Luxurious Fabrics : Equestrian style is known for its elegant textures, so go for high-quality materials like wool, leather, tweed, and suede. Pairing leather knee-high boots with a structured wool coat or a tweed blazer over a cotton turtleneck adds that timeless, polished look.
Focus on Tailoring : Fit is everything in equestrian style. Tailored pieces bring sophistication and structure, so seek out fitted blazers, high-waisted pants, and slim jeans or leggings. Tailoring creates a streamlined silhouette, helping you maintain the sleek, refined look of equestrian fashion.
Use Leather Accents : Leather accessories—belts, gloves, and structured bags—give your outfit that equestrian edge without overdoing it. A wide leather belt over a blazer or fitted shirt with jeans is a classic, subtle nod to the trend.
Play with Neutral Tones : While you can go bold with a pop of red or deep green, neutrals like camel, beige, navy, and black provide a classic equestrian feel. Try pairing beige trousers with a black riding boot or a camel coat with dark denim for a chic, polished look that never goes out of style.
master the look pocket guide
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DO: Select structured outerwear to elevate the overall outfit.
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DO: Incorporate soft, flowing materials like silk to add contrast.
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DO: Opt for chic ankle boots with subtle embellishments for flair.
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DO: Use classic patterns like plaid to enhance the equestrian vibe.
- DO: Layer with a fitted turtleneck or mock neck for warmth and style.
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DON'T: Combine equestrian pieces with overly casual items .
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DON'T: Wear oversized tops that don’t define your silhouette.
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DON'T: Opt for athletic shoes ; elegant footwear is key.
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DON'T: Overload on jewellery ; keep it understated for sophistication.
- DON'T: Skimp on fabric quality ; invest in pieces that las
"The equestrian style gives you versatility. When done right, it’s a look that’s effortlessly chic without sacrificing comfort."
Complete the look: Turtlenecks
Complete the look: Blazers
Complete the look: Jeans
Complete the look: Boots
Complete the look: Scarves
Conclusion
This look it’s a universally flattering trend for every body type that instantly adds polish to any outfit. Whether you go for a tailored blazer, knee-high boots, or sleek, high-waisted trousers, each piece brings out a poised, refined aesthetic. Incorporating one or two elements from this trend instantly lifts a look with structured elegance, creating a balance that’s both timeless and modern.
Equestrian-inspired style is all about timeless appeal mixed with everyday ease, blending high-end tailoring with a hint of rustic charm. From structured blazers and leather boots to laid-back layers and earthy tones, it’s an approach that’s as versatile as it is stylish. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek office look or a refined weekend vibe, adding a bit of equestrian flair creates an effortless, polished feel.
What are the key pieces for creating an equestrian-inspired outfit?
Classic pieces include tailored blazers, knee-high riding boots, structured trousers, and crisp button-down shirts. Equestrian style is all about refined, timeless shapes and luxurious fabrics like leather and wool that evoke the sport’s heritage. Adding one of these staples can give any outfit an instantly polished feel.
Can equestrian-inspired clothing work for everyday wear?
Absolutely! Equestrian style is highly versatile and adaptable. Swap traditional trousers for high-waisted jeans with a blazer or wear riding boots with a flowy dress for a balanced, contemporary look. It’s all about pairing these classic pieces with everyday staples for a look that’s polished yet wearable.
Does equestrian style work for all body types?
Yes, equestrian-inspired dressing is generally flattering across body types due to its focus on structured lines and tailored pieces. Items like high-waisted trousers and fitted blazers create long, clean silhouettes, while knee-high boots can lengthen the legs. Look for fitted pieces that accentuate your shape without being restrictive.
What colours are most associated with equestrian style?
Neutral colours are central to equestrian-inspired dressing: think blacks, browns, navies, and creams. However, deep greens and rich burgundies add a touch of warmth and depth, enhancing the classic feel. These tones are versatile and lend themselves to layering, making them ideal for year-round wear.
How can I make equestrian dressing work with my existing wardrobe?
Start by introducing one equestrian element, like a structured blazer or a pair of riding boots, to your outfit. Pair it with basics you already own, like jeans or a simple sweater. This way, you can ease into the trend and see which pieces complement your style while adding a touch of sophistication.
