Retired Small Pony Hunter “Sam I Am” and Amy Cline

Amy has a long history with Sam I Am starting as a little girl riding and showing him since a  7-year-old through age 12.   Sam I Am competed in the Small Pony Hunter Divisions at Winter Equestrian Festival to National Pony Hunter Finals and even The Devon National Horse Show.  He has been successful with many riders across the country and has taught many young children to ride at the national level.

Dutch Warmblood Mare Hadfield’s Minuet “Minnie” and Amy Cline

Amy’s Style is classic, romantic, and feminine.  Amy wore a white ruffled tank top and curled her hair… she looks absolutely angelic in these photos!  Keeping the dress classic for portraits is key.  The dark wood fencing and greenery in the background brings out the blonde hair in Amy and keeps an equestrian-chic look in the photo.

Pictured about is Hadfield’s Minuet, also known as”Minnie”.  She is a semiretired 15.1 h Dutch Warmblood who has won many championships in Adult Amateur Hunters at AA Rated horse shows in Wellington, Florida like Winter Equestrian Festival and The National Horse Show. Minnie now resides at Fox Meadow Farm in Ocala, Florida along with Sam I Am.

Also, posing with your pony should be natural and fun. Amy and Sam are the best of friends and he enjoys his pasture time with “Minnie” above.  Amy’s memories with Sam will continue to grow as he is retired on Fox Meadow Farm in Ocala, Florida.

To see more fabulous equestrian photography visit: Kathy Cline Photography

What: Hyde Park Polo Club for the Spring Polo Invitational presented by McDaniels Audi of Charleston 

When: Sunday, May 12, 2013.  Gates open at 11AM. 

Where: Hyde Park Polo Club: 6763 Davis Rd.,Ravenel, SC 29470
(843) 571-34311

VIP Set ups available. Dress to Impress!

It’s a beautiful way to celebrate Mother’s Day out on the polo field in sundresses and big hats.  The first match starts at 1 pm, with the main event at 3pm.  There will be food, drinks, and live music for entertainment, but everyone is welcome to bring their own picnic.  Just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, this 380 acre horse property will take your breath away.

General admission tickets are available in advance through our website at www.hydeparkpoloclub.com or at the gate on Sunday.  To reserve a tent, call Jerri at (843) 442-3611.

If you need further information, please visit: www.hydeparkpoloclub.com

One of our favorite events, the Miami Beach Polo World Cup tournament just took place recently on the sunny beaches of south Florida at the end of April. It’s the world’s largest and most prestigious Beach Polo competition.  Attendees at this year’s Miami Beach Polo World Cup experienced the annual serious of VIP events that took place including La Martina fashion show in the VIP tent, VIP members sipped cocktails courtesy of Grey Goose Vodka and attended other gatherings at The James Royal Palm Hotel, W South Beach Hotel, The Raleigh, SLS Hotel South Beach and The Mondrian South Beach.  Each year this event attracts top polo players from all over the world with bathing beauties on the beach to watch this luxurious high-fashion equestrian event.

*Photo Credit: Jonathan Brownfield

*Photo Credit: Jonathan Brownfield

*Photo Credit: Jonathan Brownfield

*Photo Credit: Jonathan Brownfield

*Photo Credit: Jonathan Brownfield

“What is better than watching Polo on the beach? The weather was spectacular, the people were friendly, and the matches were a lot fun to watch!”-Jonathan Brownfield, photographer for EquestrianStylist.com

Also recently we had friends attend the Copa del Rey Polo Tournament at the El Rey Polo Country Club Cancun, Mexico.

Photo Credit: Erin Gilmore

Elisa Epstein Photo Credit: Erin Gilmore

“El Rey Polo Country Club was an extremely hospitable host for this International Polo Competition. Teams from all over the world came together for a fun weekend of polo. I can’t wait for next year in Cancun at El Rey Country Club!”- Elisa Epstein.

Photo Credit: Erin Gilmore

Polo is very family friendly… to keep the little ones entertained, foot mallets are fun to play with on the grounds!

Editor of Horse and Style Magazine Erin Gilmore and friend Siobhan Gallagher sip champagne field side.

Photo Credit: Erin Gilmore

If you are hooked just like us, feel free to check out more Polo events happening around the country. We’ve listed a few below:

May 12, 2013: Hyde Park Polo Invitational: Charleston, South Carolina

From ringside to the countryside, Alp n Rock has a cool comfortable-chic equestrian look.  We are loving these shirts because  they are so versatile.  From a great selection of colors, discipline, and inspiration you can find the perfect fit for your style.  Because we have lately been on a Dressage trend, Alicia wore this shirt while watching the Global Dressage Festival in Wellington, Florida.  Alicia comes from a Swiss heritage and we love the details that depict “Equestrian Swede” style!  

Pairing this look with jeans and a pop of red looks fabulous!  A simple crossbody handbag is perfect for a ringside look.  Pictured above is the Prix de Dressage Allure Crossbody handbag.

Alicia Butler from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Not only are these shirts comfortable, but they are also very technical.  The high-tech fabrics make them extremely cool and comfortable to ride in.  Pictured below are the Cone sisters from South Carolina.  Both avid riders, they found the shirts perfect for the barn or boat-side!

(from left) Bailey Cone and Arden Cone

Dressage styles by Alp -n-Rock: The Cuff Polo.  

Arden paired a red skinny bow belt to give a little pop of color against the black polo.  We are loving this look!

Alp-n-Rock uses fine fabrics such as supima cotton blends which provide super-soft, luxurious hand-feel, micro-fleece which provides warmth without weight, dries quickly and his highly breathable.  Whether you show Dressage, Hunters or Jumpers, they have shirts for all disciplines.  

It’s nice to have a dock near the farm in Charleston, South Carolina.  Many riders love the water and boating after a day of riding… we continue to live the ‘good life’ here in the south!

Alp-n-Rock is a global, premium sport-fashion brand rooted in the belief that the greatest luxury is the ability to give back.  In donating up to 10% of profits to fund scholarships in developing countries, providing the lifelong gift of an education, Alp-n-Rock makes it possible to have dreams.

For more information, please visit Alp-n-Rock.

*Photo Credit: Rodes For Him and Her in Louisville, KY. One of our favorite stores for this Spring season of Derby apparel.

It’s time do Derby Dapper!  If you are out last-minute shopping, be sure to have your outfit coordinated for tomorrow’s BIG Day!  If you will not be at Churchill downs, be sure to tune in to NBC Sports starting at 4:00 PM.  If you love watching a day of horses and pre- Derby events, tune in at 11:00 AM for pre-show leading up to the Kentucky Derby.

Many events like Rodes‘ Derby Divas have been extremely successful leading up to the first saturday each May.  Kentucky is the horse country capital of the US,and this time of year is filled with fashionistas finding the right outfit for this magnificent day in horse racing.

*Photo Credit: Rodes For Him and Her in Louisville, KY.

*Photo Credit: Rodes For Him and Her in Louisville, KY.

From roses to bright pink and greens, party planners dream of having the “Perfect Derby Day Event”. The outfit is very important, however so is the overall decor of your party or tailgate.

Your outfit should be planned for tomorrow’s BIG day…. but many stores still have fabulous choices for the last-minute shopper.  Guys and gals dress must dress to your best with silks and bright sundresses for women and seersucker and ties gingham shirts for men.  Don’t forget to throw in your equestrian style with horsebit printed ties and embroidered horse shoe dresses… If you love horses, you might as well show it on Derby Day!

Vineyard Vines: An official sponsor of the Kentucky Derby.  Love their Derby looks this spring!

Kentucky Derby Horseshoe Gingham Carolyn Dress / Tiny Bits Scarf. / Bits Tie.

 Lilly Pulitzer Pearl Dress/ Lilly Pulitzer Spring Fling Clutch / Handmade Kentucky Derby Hat /

Tory Burch Kailey Flat Sandal

Finding the right hat is critical! If you are creative enough to make one, do it.  There’s nothing more fun than saying “I made it myself!” (and make it SUPER fabulous at that…).  Otherwise, get one custom-made to coordinate with your dress to look extra-special.

Pink floral and feathered Kentucky Derby Hat.  

If you are going for a more classic and black & white look, keep it simple with a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” look:

Black and White Kentucky Derby Hat

And last but not least, if you just can’t pull off the look of a hat, or you just want a different look.  Try a Fascinator:

Cream netted fascinator 

Whether you wear a hat or a fascinator is your choice… Kate Middleton is able to wear either and you can view some of the looks below in both a Derby Hat or fascinator.  Dressing up for the Kentucky Derby is a must, wether you are at Churchill Downs or sipping Mint Juleps at the country club, wear your spring sundresses and accessorize your best!

Kate Middleton pictured in a white and periwinkle fascinator. Photo Credit: US Weekly

Photo courtesy of Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images Europe

The best way to dress in Derby is to keep it classy.  Chic, Elegant, & Classic describes the best style to wear for the Kentucky Derby.

Who’s your pick for the Kentucky Derby 2013?  We are rooting for: “It’s My Lucky Day”.  Not only are his ears up in this photo, but he’s also a Florida native… so we feel like he’s close to family for us!

For more Derby Fashions, check here for our previous post.  Enjoy your Juleps! ::Stay Tuned:: from our favorite post-Derby fashion picks!

From the garden to the barn… the outdoor-chic look is in style for Spring.  The Wallstreet Journal did a feature on the “How to look Kate Middleton Garden Chic” for the video, check it out here.  Dressing up in florals and boots is great for Spring.  The Equestrian look is not just “in” for fall anymore, we are seeing the trends of boots lead in to the months of April and May.  Classic dresses in floral patterns are simple and fresh.  Pick a flattering style, and you are set to feel feminine and pretty at any daytime event.  Light amethyst and lavenders are fresh and fun for Spring.  Pairing chestnut leather gives a unique equestrian styled look and keeps that old-fashioned vibe in the whole look.

1. Vintage Ring

2. Leather Stirrup Cuff

3. Vintage Ivory and  Floral Lavender Printed Dress

4. Cole Haan Vintage Leather Lace-Up Riding Boots 

5. “Sunny” Horse Canvas

This past week I spent in Lexington, Kentucky for the Rolex 3 Day International Event.  I arrived at the Bluegrass Airport greeting with equestrian statues and posters everywhere reminding me that I truly was in Horse Country.

Spectators at the Rolex 3 Day Event in Lexington, KY. Photo Provided by Rolex Kentucky 3 Day Event

The first night marked the fabulous dinner at Spindletop Hall mansion just minutes from the Kentucky Horse Park.

Chic. Elegant. & Classic.  It was a beautiful evening for equestrians and sponsors:

Photo Provided: Rolex 3 Day Event KY

Jordan Amstutz and myself at the sponsors dinner at Spindletop Hall

Trophies lined the rooms along with hanging stirrups intermixed with vintage equestrian photos.  The equestrian style inspiration at Spindletop Hall is phenomenal!

A rustic, yet english equestrian vibe from the bar area of the downstairs Spindletop Hall mansion.

The First Horse Inspection at Rolex 3 Day International Event marked fabulous outfits of competitors dressed to their best to compete for the “Best Turned Out Award” Presented by Dubarry of Ireland:

Andrew Nicholson

Jan Byyny Photo Credit: EventingNation.com

Katie Ruppel, winner of the Dubarry Best Dressed Award, Fillies Edition

Winner of the Dubarry Best Dressed Colt Edition – Boyd Martin. Photo Credit: EventingNation.com

The show jumping arena at Rolex Kentucky: overlooked by gloomy clouds, but the rain held out pretty well throughout the weekend. Exhibitors and spectators enjoyed the ever-so-popular Dubarry booth.  ”Where do you go in Yours?”  Dubarry announced the release of the Longford Boot, which ended up selling out at the show…

Pictured above is the Dubarry team on Sunday the last day of Rolex KY 3 Day event.  Throughout the week we all spoke to hundreds of equestrian enthusiasts of all ages.  We all enjoyed staying in Lexington, Kentucky and eating at some of our favorite restaurants including The Grey Goose and Cheapside Bar and Grill.  

Dubarry’s equestrian style merchandising techniques are the best I have seen in the industry.  The team loves to shop for antiques to enhance the experience for their customers.  From vintage equestrian paintings to antique upholstered couches, the customers feel like they are entering an english equestrian living room.  Not to mention, the service and quality are held to a high standard at Dubarry… You will be treated like royalty: Not to mention the champagne keeps flowing!

White ponies and purple flowers greet you at the Kentucky Horse Park.  Lexington, Kentucky is truly an Equestrian Princess’ dream come true.  In fact, to verify this, Alicia Butler and I visited the Castle Post on the way back to the airport.  This is an absolute must-see monument in Kentucky.  Next time, we may even stay here for some rest and relaxation…  It’s Kentucky’s premier luxury tourist inn:

Alicia Butler twirls like a princess at the Castle Post

So long Kentucky, until next time!  We will continue to remember the ponies, castles, and Kentucky bluegrass to keep inspiring us in all things equestrian fashion and lifestyle related.  Ta Ta for now!

30 inch x 40 inch ceramic mosaic on panel, available www.eofc.com

At Live Oak International 2013, I had the greatest opportunity to meet with Richard Moss of Oil on Porcelain.  A gentleman that I will never forget, Moss is one of the most personable, kind, and well-educated men I have ever encountered.  And one of the most talented elite equestrian artists in the industry.  Moss was raised in the Northeast by his mother whom raised him with a love for animals, fine art and French cuisine.  He even spoiled us with a homemade French quiche the final day of the horse show.

Large format oil on porcelain 16 x 20 inches. “four horse hitch” Private collection

A bit of the background of Oil On Porcelain: Richard Moss studied mosaic in Italy, while Moss’s partner Robert Clark, is a graduate of the New York Academy of Art with a Masters in painting.  For more than twenty years, Clark and Moss have been working collaboratively to create both functional and decorative figurative art: easel-work and surfaces in stone, glass and ceramic. Together they have been recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts, the White House Millennium Project, museums and prestigious private collectors. Their published work includes luxury residences and notable hotels and restaurants. For a decade they have been reviving kiln-fired oil-on-porcelain in the style of 18^th and 19^th century Sevres Porcelain (Paris) and Konigliche Porzellan Manufaktur (K.P.M – Germany).  Their compelling portrait paintings have unusual depth due to the transparency of the medium, also a smooth surface with a buttery sheen. Subtle variations of color and attention to minute detail give these portraits a powerful physical presence. Translucence is achieved through multiple kiln firings at high temperatures. The artists’ studio is at their farm in Ocala FL, where they breed horses from the Royal Dutch Stud Book of the Netherlands (KWPN) and German riding ponies.

These two artists are all about the details with fine hair strokes and perfectly reflected eyes that bring the painting alive.

Custom creations are part of their specialty.  By personalizing art for their clients, it creates a lasting memory for both the horse and rider.  Equestrians from all of the world have had special masterpieces created for both the barn and home.

Miniatures, dogs and horses. Most are about 2 inches or so and durable to enough to be worn as jewelry.  Most of these pieces, however, are used as wall art.

One who loves horses, usually loves dogs…

Oil On Porcelain was the featured art behind the 137^th Westminster Kennel Club poster with 23 of  the miniature oil on porcelain paintings.

Clark and Moss specialize in creating masterpieces for famous horses and riders all around the world.  Below you will see “Rousseau” who is a famous Dutch Warmblood owned by Hassler Dressage of MD.   The KWPN-NA commissioned the portrait and presented it during their annual meeting which was hosted at Hassler’s gorgeous facility.

Credit: PrimaEquestrian.com

Credit: PrimaEquestrian.com

12” x 16” hand-painted kiln-fired oil-on-porcelain; Clark and Richard Moss; 2013

The soft details are elegant and classic… A timeless piece to last forever.

Not only does Oil On Porcelain do custom portraits, but they also specialize in home interiors.  If you are thinking of redoing your kitchen or bathroom, take a look at the incredible backsplash behind the stove of this kitchen:

We are loving the european influence that Moss and Clark have developed into their equestrian art.  Moss and Clark’s Equipment of Culture features hand painted tiles available for custom work orders large and small.  We will be featuring more equestrian interiors inspired by Moss & Clark’s Equipment of Culture in the future, so stay tuned for more of this fabulous equestrian style.

For more information, on the artists and their work please visit the following links:

www.eofc.com

www.eofc.com/blog

www.OilonPorcelain.com

*Image taken from: The Victorian Era-Horseback Riding-Victorian Days 

The everyday social etiquette in Victoria times were very detailed, protected for decades and rarely open to change.  Many “laws” covered everything from the kind of jewelry and dress a lady wore at certain times of the day, the do’s and don’ts of social functions, calling cards, removal (or not) of a bonnet, and dining etiquette.  Did you know…Riding horses in public was not advised until a young lady had acquired a level of riding experience that she would not embarrass her family members in public.

Gentlemen were accustomed to helping the ladies mount their horses. After the lady was mounted, the gentleman would wait until she had her whip and reins properly in hand and secured in the seat. Then, he would mount his horse and take his place upon her right.

The Victorian era inspires many traditional fashions creating a  look that is classic and chic.  The Royal Family back then, and even today has a high impact on ladies fashion. Queen Victoria’s daughter-in-law, Alexandra was responsible for trends long before she became queen.  She set the trend for Europe and America with her jewelry. Pearls were  her passions, which made them  more desirable to the general public. Prince Edward’s love for horse racing popularized the horseshoe motif as agood luck charm.

To get a sense of the Victorian Era of Equestrian Style, please refer to the following images:

*Image taken from: Bumble Button Blog. 

Ladies rode with draping side saddle gowns and fastened top hats with delicate veils draped over the horse’s back.  Women of higher social classes were expected to be demure and indolent as reflected by the restrictive dropped shoulder lines and corsets.  Although many of these pictures depict dresses, these costumes were actually separate bodices and skirts.

Queen Victoria in 1840

*Photo taken from Victorian Era Fashion.

Horses were not only used for riding, but also carriage driving in the Victorian era.  Even though many traveled by train in the 1860s, wealthy folks enjoyed the cli in their own carriages pulled by matching horses tacked up in the best harness complete with crests.

*Image taken from: Bumble Button Blog. 

The elegance of side saddle riding in the Victorian Era proved a very romantic and charming look.  Today, we still see the elegant dress in side saddle that originated from the Victorian Era.  The American Side Saddle Association is active and accepting memberships for those that would like to be involved in this traditional equestrian sport.

1862 Equestrian costume attire

Fashion from the Victorian Era is continuing to influence clothing and accessories today.  Take a look at this fabulous new piece by Echo of the Dreamer and Mars and Valentine: A Vintage Victorian Equestrian necklace layered in pearls creating a beautiful statement to any outfit.

The center showpiece of this one-of-a-kind necklace from Caracol Silver is one of those original horseshoes given as gifts to bring good fortune to its owner.  The indentations consist of rose gold plated nail detail and the the floral detailed leafs seen at the bottom of the pendant are 14k gold. The shimmering stones are white topaz. The necklace hangs about 30″ long, and the pearl beaded tassel adds another 6″ to the piece.  This piece is from the Mars and Valentine’s collection and discovered by Myoshin, who searches out unique antique pieces.

At a price of $1454, you surely will be taking home a one-of-a-kind equestrian luxury piece for this Spring.  Wear it with a white laced sundress or a favorite maxi dress and this necklace will be a show stopper for any occasion on any lady who strives to be classic and elegant.

To purchase, or for more questions, please visit Caracol Silver. 

The Longford Boot by Dubarry

 The Longford Boot.

This stylish double-buckle waterproof and breathable boot by Dubarry of Ireland will be showcased in the USA at Rolex 3-day event in Kentucky April 25th-28th at the Kentucky Horse Park.   Like all of the other fabulous Dubarry boots, The Longford is lined with GORE-TEX^® all the way to the top of the boot.  The stylish double buckle detail is just the right touch on the Longford.  Available in Walnut or Black from sizes Euro 37-43 (US women’s 5.5-11.5)  The Longford retails for $529.

Limited numbers will be available to be purchased during the preview and Dubarry will be running a social media competition through the event in which one lucky US resident can win a pair.

Details on the competition are the following:

Remember to tag your photos with: #iwantdubarrylongfordboots

Be sure to tweet, share, and have FUN with Dubarry at:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dubarryofIreland

Twitter: @Dubarry_Com

Instagram: @DubarryofIreland

The Longford Boot is available in Walnut or Black

Best of luck to everyone competing!  Looking forward to seeing the winner of these beauties!