Fall Trend: Equestrian Chic

Donna Karan

From tailored jackets to dressed-up jodhpurs, fall's equestrian-inspired looks will have you riding high.
One of the most dominant fashion trends for the fall/winter 2013-2014 season is the equestrian trend. This style, which ranges from womenswear to accessories, grew in popularity thanks to the cross-body bag and boot trends that many labels added to their collections this season.  From all-American Ralph Lauren to Gucci to Givenchy, many designers had fun adding their own touches to this trend. It may not require the traditional trappings of all the athleticism on the runway, but equestrianism is a sport!

There are several ways to add this trend to your wardrobe: a jacket with a long back (not necessarily coattails), slim-fitting pants or jodhpurs, a knee-high boot, and a satchel or cross-body bag, particularly with a horse-bit detail.   Consider mixing browns or blacks with tweeds and other nubby knits. You will be warm and cut with a slim shape in all the right layers.

The riding boot is a closet essential for this look.  If you do not already own a pair of these boots, consider them an investment piece. This style of boot comes in all price ranges, and can be worn with your best equestrian-influenced look- think skinny jeans tucked in, or a skirt that grazes the top of the boot.  However, you rock the trend, make the riding boot the signature piece in your ensemble!

Wearing jodhpurs is usually where most women stop with this trend. Thankfully, with all of the skinny pants in style this season, there are many options to make this look work for your body type and comfort level. Leather pants, leggings in a variety of fabrics, and skinny jeans can all be adapted for the equestrian trend!  Dressing in equestrian style is more than mere horseplay.  A modern classic, riding inspired, and highly desired the equestrian look is an elegant trend you won't want to buck. 

Ralph Lauren

Rachel Zoe