Ok, this is a topic that many question since the trends change every year, if not more. I'm here to address (as a competitor) what the "in' styles are for the upcoming show season. Some of the things are just what I notice, and I have Hobby Horse and other show clothing companies to do my research with.

 Ok, here we go!

(Can't copy the article, so here's the link.)

http://www.hobbyhorseinc.com/07_dress_for_success/fashionforecast/index_2008.shtml

What is in?

Well...

• Slim fitting clothes.
  - If you have the jiggle when you wiggle, control it with a stretchy tank top or a under shirt. Personally, I have worn a tank top and under armour, and then duct taped for the slimmer look. We all have different methods, I'm sharing my best. Duct tape can really help with your posture if used correctly, but don't get it too tight!


• Smooth appearcance.
  - No more western shirt tucked into a pair of jeans with some chaps thrown on, todays show ring is about a smoother picture that blends. Dark pants, dark chaps, dark boots, dark hat. Light pants, light chaps, light boots, light hat. Don't wear black pants with sand chaps and green boots, it doesn't look nice. Also, wear a subtle belt to match your pants/chaps. A belt buckle makes your appearance more professional. Gloves also have the pro touch, if used correctly. Use darker gloves (or lighter if your outfit is light) if you have busy hands. The only way you would use light gloves (or boots) is if you have quiet hands (and legs). This applies for light or dark.


• Toss out the ponytail!
  - Ponytails are plain and boring, not to mention they can get in the way of your number if you have longer hair. Also, a ponytail can bounce or sway, possibly making your upper body seem weak or in motion. So pin up your hair and break out the hairspray!


• Put on your lipstick!
  - Depending on if you do under saddle or halter classes, the amount of make up you use can be crucial. If you apply your makeup correctly, your face will be brightened and your overall appearance will be improved. For under saddle classes, the more the better. When you think you have enough on, put a little more on. You'll be showing at a distance from the judge, like an actor from the audience, so you will need more than normal to have the makeup be affective. Inhand classes you'll be a little closer to the judge, so don't overdo it. If you're going to do riding classes after, finish the make up after. Less is more when you're inhand.


• Lose the glasses.
  - If you have glasses, you will have a much brighter face and will look much smoother if you wear contacts. Not everyone can wear contacts, so ride without the glasses if you can do so safely, otherwise find a nice, slim pair that won't slide and won't block out your face.


• Make it stick!
  - Ok, we all have show hats that don't stay on, so here's some tips to keep the hat on!
   ~ Hairspray the inside of the hat.
   ~ Buy a smaller size than you need.
   ~ Use duct tape, tape the edges of the hat, not your head.
   ~ Use the black pads that come with your helmet.


• Match your horse, not your tack.
  - There's no point in buying nice clothes if they don't match your horse! Use the Hobby Horse color wheel:
  (http://www.hobbyhorseinc.com/07_dress_for_success/winning_colors/index.shtml)
  

That's all for now, I'll be back with hunt tips!

Tags: show ring trends styles

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