Burghley Horse Trials 2023 – Last Minute Outfit Inspiration!

With less than a week until Burghley Horse Trials begins, I’m on hand to help with any last minute plans and outfits!

Extending over a 5 day period, Burghley Horse trials, held at Burghley House in Lincolnshire, promises to be a ‘not to be missed’ event, with elite riders from around the world competing for the prestigious winning title. As one third of the Rolex Grand Slam, Burghley promises to deliver all of the thrills and spills of 5* eventing, combining challenging Dressage, Cross County and Showjumping phases. With plenty to see and do, whatever day you choose to attend, there will be something for everyone!

Burghley Timetable:

Wednesday: The ‘trot up’
Horse and rider combinations present in front of a vet to ensure the horse is fit and sound to compete. The trot up has become the Eventing world catwalk, where riders often don beautiful outfits and showcase the very best of Country fashion. New for 2023 at Burghley, the ‘Tea and Trot Up’ event.

Thursday and Friday: Dressage
Where elegance and precision meet as horse and rider combination perform a dressage test showcasing equestrian harmony through a variation of different movements. Plus Le Mieux Pony Club Team Jumping on Thursday and the final of the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horses on Friday.

Saturday: Cross-Country
Testing true bravery and skill, the cross-country phase sees riders navigating a series of challenging obstacles. An ever popular day at Burghley as spectators gather to the best viewing spots to watch this demanding phase. Shetland pony grand national

Sunday: Showjumping
Aiming for a flawless performance, horse and rider combinations navigate a series of showjumping fences. Requiring accuracy and control, this final part of the competition always has spectators on the edge of their seats!

Not only does Burghley Horse Trials supply our full fix of equestrian excellence, there’s also a whole host of shopping to be done, and delicious food to be enjoyed.

Stands to look out for:
Joules | The new A/W collection will be available for viewing – not to be missed!
Fairfax & Favor | The most beautiful investment footwear.
Holland Cooper | Their event stands is always the ultimate shopping experience.
My Best Friends Wardrobe | Everything from pretty dresses to perfect knits.
Startsmart | The cutest children’s clothing.
Townfields Saddlers | Everything for your equestrian needs.
Whale of a Time | Fun and casual clothing perfect for every day.
Ella & Cherry | Beautiful shirts and everyday pieces.

How to dress for Burghley Horse Trails

Dressing for Burghley Horse Trials doesn’t have to be challenging, but with so many of these events now, Country Fashion can be at the forefront of more and more minds. Dressing for the occasion not only leaves you looking good, but feeling good, so getting your outfit right can be a real mood booster. But with that being said, the stress of finding an outfit can often feel overpowering.

The most important thing with any Equestrian or Country event, is of course, practicality, and there are many do’s and don’ts for dressing like a pro. Luckily, your girl is on hand to offer up some advice, and of course, show you some of my own inspiration for the event.

I’m going to guide you top to bottom to help you create the perfect look, as well as sharing my tips and tricks for creating a flawless, but practical outfit.

Jackets

The perfect place for us to start is with Jackets. The weather can often begin to change as we head towards Burghley, therefore a jacket is likely to be part of your outfit. A fitted jacket or blazer is a timeless addition to any outfit, and perfectly fits the Equestrian/Country aesthetic. Wool or tweed are popular options, in neutral colours. The tailored silhouette of a well fitting jacket or blazer, will create a polished look, whilst adding an extra layer should the weather be turning.

Best places to shop!
Joules – www.joules.com
Holland Cooper – www.hollandcooper.com
Welligogs (use ‘LUCINDA10’ for 10% off online) – www.welligogs.com

Tops

A white shirt is a classic piece, and a great place to start if you are unsure how to build your outfit. This staple piece will enable you to incorporate colour or pattern into your outfit, giving you a blank canvas to begin from. White shirts with some detailing, for example a ruffle or thrill, would be my recommendation. A country check or print is also a great way to incorporate theming into your outfit.

Layering is essential for any Horse Trials outfit, then you can add and remove as required. This may often encompass lightweight gilets, tank tops or raincoats over your outfit.

It may be necessary to choose a different top, depending on the weather. A polo top will always be a nod towards classic equestrian style, whilst a simple cable knit jumper may be more weather appropriate should it be windy or rainy.

Best places to shop!
Joules – www.joules.com
Holland Cooper – www.hollandcooper.com
Welligogs (use ‘LUCINDA10’ for 10% off online) – www.welligogs.com
Ella & Cherry – www.ellaandcherry.co.uk

Trousers/Skirts

Jeans, skirts or shorts are all appropriate for Burghley Horse Trials, and it is best to consider the weather, as to which one to go for. I personally feel that either black or white jeans are an easy base to build your outfit from, whilst a tweed skirt is classic Country styling.

Best places to shop!
Joules – www.joules.com
M&S – www.marksandspencer.com
Holland Cooper – www.hollandcooper.com
Lovall – www.lovall.com

Dresses

It is difficult to tell what the weather will do for Burghley, but should the sun make an appearance, a dress is a stylish and comfortable option. This could be anything from a plain white dress, to a pretty country print. I would team with tall boots and a blazer for cooler days, or loafers/deck shoes for any sunnier days.

Best places to shop!
Shein – www.shein.co.uk
Zara – www.zara.com
Holland Cooper – www.hollandcooper.com

Footwear

When it comes to footwear, comfort and practicality is key for any Horse Trials. There is nothing worse than trying to break in a new pair of shoes around a XC course! I would always recommend that you don’t wear a new pair of shoes for the first time, no matter how comfortable you think they will be! I would also recommend always taking plasters, because even if you don’t need them, someone you’re with might!

The weather and ground can be unpredictable, so it is always best to consider these conditions when it comes to your chosen footwear! Wellies, boots or deck shoes are often popular choices. Classic equestrian and Country styling nods towards a pair of suede or leather tall boots. These are great investment pieces, as they are timeless and will last in your wardrobe for years to come. I would recommend investing in real leather or suede pieces.

Best places to shop!
Fairfax & Favor – www.fairfaxandfavor.com
Nicola Sexton – www.nicolasexton.com

Accessories

Accessories are just as key as every other part of your outfit, and can really help to complete the look. They offer up individuality and character, setting your outfit apart.

Hats

Nothing says a Horse Trials like finishing off your outfit with a hat. Either a classic fedora or a flat cap are perfect. This not only offers a stylish finishing touch to your outfit, but it is also incredibly practical. Whether it is keeping the sun out your eyes, or the rain off your hair, you’ll be thankful for adding this key accessory into your outfit.

Best places to shop!
Hicks & Brown – www.hicksandbrown.com
Rydale – www.rydale.com
Joules – www.joules.com

Scarves

Silk scarves are part of such classic equestrian look, and with so many different designs available, you’ll be able to find the perfect one, unique to your own style. Whether they are peeking out from under your shirt, tied nearly around your neck, or adorned beautifully on your handbag, these can incorporate the colours in your outfit, and create an incredibly polished look.

Best places to shop!
Clare Haggas Fine Art – www.clarehaggas.com
Holland Cooper – www.hollandcooper.com
Shein – www.shein.co.uk
Joules – www.joules.com

Bags

A comfortable shoulder bag would always be my option for XC day. Choosing something large enough to carry everything you need, but also pop any unwanted layers in, would be favourable. If you have grandstand seating on any of the Burghley days, then you just need a bag large enough for whatever you wish to take.

Best places to shop!
Salthouse England – www.salthousengland.co.uk
Katie Loxton (use code ‘KLDTI5O8’ for 15% off online) – www.katieloxton.com
Grays – www.grays1922.com

Other

A belt is often a must have, even if it is just for show as part of your outfit. Leather or suede are popular options when it comes to a Horse Trials outfits. Sunglasses and an umbrella should also be taken into consideration, given our English weather!