This week I posted a photo of my husband and I on Facebook while we were out for a late summer outdoor dinner. I was wearing a crisp white Noel Asmar shirt that has never seen the stable and I was surprised that a few of my friends commented that they “loved” my shirt. Reflecting on my closet, I have a handful of white show shirts that were specifically purchased for “street wear” due to their quality and design and have never been near riding breeches, but instead are always paired with crisp denim.
My STREET ONLY Shirts
5 Reasons I Prefer Equestrian Labels
The reason I purchase white shirts created by equestrian brands is because I find the designers integrate elements that create the more tailored and polished look I prefer including:
1) COLLARS: The most identifying design element as an equestrian lifestyle fashion piece, although I choose them because it is a flattering cut. When choosing how best to wear, remember, “Pointed collars flatter a round face whereas spread collars fit a narrow face.” (1) In my interpretation, this recommendation means that collars can either be worn standing up with the first one or two buttons left open OR folded back as if laying against a show coat after a class.
2) TRIMMINGS AND DETAILS: Equestrian brands often create a subtle signature design element specific to their label. A few of my favorite details include Le Fash’s gold buttons sewn on both placket and cuffs that were specifically created as a tribute to traditional hunt clubs, Asmar’s contrasting tan elbow patches placed on a crisp white fabric, and the fabric piping coupled with matching square buttons that is part of Winston’s collection.
3) LENGTH: I appreciate that riding shirts are constructed with enough length to comfortably tuck into pants without pulling up. This allows flexibility for wearing with mid or lower rise jeans or even wearing untucked.
4) BODY: Because show shirts are meant to wear under hunt coats, the cut is closer fitting as opposed to the “boxy” boyfriend style. When worn as a city look, this creates a flattering female silhouette
5) SLEEVES: Show shirts are usually cut perfectly in the arms because riding is an athletic sport- not too tight or too wide.
Prepare for fall with an investment in a crisp white shirt from your favorite equestrian label as a staple for your wardrobe. The closer fit provides an exceptional layer with sweaters and coats and the trimmings and details individualize style from those of your non-equestrian peers. I can almost guarantee they will ask who your designer is!
Salut!
(1) http://www.primermagazine.com/2012/spend/how-a-shirt-should-fit-the-principles-of-fit