Equestrianism: Key Pieces to Steal from Chic and Mythical Sports

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For several years now, the sportswear spirit has been taking over everyone’s wardrobe…
From joggers to trail sneakers and backpacks, from Nike to Adidas or even Lacoste with its tennis skirt and polo; all brands are experimenting with the casual/sportswear mix. Today, on the occasion of the 12th Saut Hermès, an International show jumping competition taking place this weekend (from March 18 to 20, 2022), we invite you to take a closer look at equestrian fashion and its trends. Jump on the opportunity to learn more about equestrian fashion pieces to borrow and urgently integrate into your wardrobe.

Hermès in 4 words: Horse, Orange, Square, Kelly

At the origin of the brand known for its silk squares as famous as its Hermès Orange, there is a man: Thierry Hermès. In 1837, he launched his harness and saddle manufacturing business and quickly became a master saddler. He designed, crafted, and sold harnesses and other equipment for horses. After his death, his son and grandson evolved the brand’s concept, and Hermès began producing equestrian items like horse blankets, silk racing jackets, large leather bags for transporting boots and saddles, etc. The saddle point was born, and the worthy heirs of Thierry Hermès transferred the manufacturing codes of their “equestrian” items to more mainstream sectors like luggage and leather goods. In the 1920s, the Hermès house extended its signature to men’s and women’s clothing, watchmaking, jewelry, and of course, accessories and interior decoration. What is now Hermès International has existed for over a century. Lola Prusac, the creator of the iconic silk square launched in 1929, also developed sports/leisure wear for that era, namely for skiing and the beach. This was followed by the creation of the now “celebrated” bag – Le Kelly – named after Grace Kelly… In short, sports and leather have been the battle horses of the house since its inception.
Editorial Note: Did you notice that the famous Hermès logo is none other than a harnessed duke?

The Saut Hermès, an event that brings together the greatest champions of the equestrian world over 3 days for a competition that resembles a show, also gathers, just like the Grand Prix Diane Longines in Chantilly, a range of looks in the stands and tribunes that you should be inspired by.

So, everyone in the saddle to discover the pieces that will become your passion or that already are!

The Equestrian Boot

Of course, if there is one piece that immediately comes to mind when thinking of equestrian attire, it’s the boot… But not just any boot. The Hermès Sellier boot in leather, which has spawned variations since its launch, like the Jumping model in leather with a flat sole in the form of boots or ankle boots with its iconic clasp inspired by the Kelly bag, or the Dressage model with heels, also in leather.

The names of the models resonate with the horse world at Hermès; but other brands have drawn inspiration from the Sellier creator, such as Prada, Tod’s, La Modeuse, Boden, Alaia, Legres, Girotti FR with equestrian boot models.
The equestrian boot will adapt to any of your wardrobe… Chic and understated with a pair of raw jeans and a turtleneck, sexy with a short skirt and a casual tweed or wool coat, or even resolutely fashionable with a pleated midi skirt.

The Competition Shirt or Polo

If you’re keen to borrow items from the equestrian world, also adopt the dress codes of competitions with the competition shirt/polo. What is it? A competition shirt or polo is a fitted garment made of technical fabric worn under the competition jacket. The principle of this outfit is simple; it must have a white collar – the epitome of elegance – and button up to the base of the neck. In itself, worn with riding pants, it is a fairly basic piece but mixed with a Fashionista wardrobe, this garment with a Mao collar can make an impact. Pair it with vintage carrot-cut jeans or a pleated skirt for a school girl look.

A Waxed Jacket or Nothing

Your wardrobe may already have one… The famous waxed jacket from the Barbour brand is also a garment from the horse world. Wear it in rainy weather or when it’s windy, as it is a true insulating and technical coat. British effect guaranteed. The quilted jacket – the summer version – also pairs very well with any jeans, whether in the city or the countryside.

The Equestrian Brands to Source Without Hesitation

Every sport has its favorite brands. For equestrianism, Hermès is indeed the mother house. But to find inspired and inspiring pieces, you can also look towards these brands; some technical garments can adapt perfectly to both the city and the stage: Pénélope Leprevost, the eponymous brand launched by the French show jumping rider who medaled at the Rio Olympics, DADA Sport, Pomme, Polo Club.

The Next Piece That Will Make a Comeback

Finally, it is highly likely that the jodhpur, the famous equestrian pants imported from India, will one day make its return on the runways and thus in our closets. In the meantime, brands have understood that every sport can be a source of inspiration, and equestrianism has nothing to be ashamed of. Moreover, a brand like Ralph Lauren continues to draw inspiration from the horse world, but more in a Gentleman Farmer style.

Hermès has well understood the importance of associating its iconic brand with a sport as chic as equestrianism, especially in this emblematic place that is the Grand Palais. Let’s remember that the Grand Palais, just a stone’s throw from the Champs-Élysées, hosts various events like FIAC, the book fair, the Floralies, or even Electro Night, Pink October, and an ice rink in winter… Luxury brands have recognized that this iconic venue deserves to be utilized, and it is worth noting that Hermès International with its Show Jumping Competition is not the only couture house to benefit from it. Indeed, the Chanel House showcases there several times a year, always with an American-style show and especially a mastery of decor that allows you to travel while remaining under the Nef. And you, what is your passion then?