Last weekend was just glorious!

I cannot believe we are now a week on from Badminton Horse Trials, and all of the dreams that were made at the beautiful Badminton House estate this year.

I planned to spend two days at Badminton, the Saturday and Sunday. I have a very full on full time job, so when I get asked about attending on other days, however due to my career, this is often not possible!

🐴 Badminton Horse Trials 🐴

As a horsey girl myself, Badminton really kicks off the feeling of the season for me, and I have been attending every year since I was about 12 years old. As a child I watched completely in awe of the incredible bravery and determination of the riders, hoping I too would have that courage one day. So many years down the line, and that very same feeling still remains.

Badminton Horse Trials is set in the heart of Gloucestershire, at the Badminton Estate. Every spring, this iconic event transforms the beautiful estate into a vibrant hub of Eventing excellence, but also fashionable flair. Notable winners such as Rosalind Canter, Laura Collett and Piggy French, showcase the pinnacle of Eventing at its finest. Enthusiasts and fashionistas flock to see the thrills and spills of this top class sport, whilst now more than ever spectators also look to incorporate Country chic fashion into their days. Badminton Horse Trials is not just about the thrilling cross-country course, exhilarating showjumping and technical dressage elements; it also offers a perfect blend of sport and socialising. Badminton, held in this quintessentially English setting, combined with the excitement of top-tier competition, makes it a must-visit event on every show season calendar.

👢 Horse Trials Outfits 👢

Attending a Horse Trials allows spectators to not only enjoy thrilling equestrian sport, but also embrace Country fashion and styling, which has become ever more popular. Brands such as Fairfax & Favor, Schoffel, Holland Cooper and Joules have become synonymous with these events, offering a stunning array of clothing and footwear that caters to the unpredictable British weather, and the need for comfort during long days outdoors, as well as ticking all the boxes when it comes to style.

When dressing for a Horse Trials or Country event, layering is essential. As the weather can be highly variable, ensuring you have clothing easy to add or remove can be key. From spring showers, to boiling summer heat, it is a good idea to ensure you leave the house with a suitable option should the unpredictable happen!

Practicality is key when it comes to footwear. I would always recommend opting for worn in shoes, you don’t want to be breaking in a new pair or boots or shoes halfway round the XC course! Wellies may well be an option given our very British summers! Accessories such as a tweed cap or a fedora hat add a touch of traditional elegance, while also offering protection from the sun or rain.

Fashion at country shows and equestrian events has evolved significantly, with attendees often showcasing the latest offerings alongside timeless classics. Stylish yet functional pieces have become a statement for these types of event, with the emphasis is on pieces that offer both aesthetic appeal and practicality. But comfort always remains paramount, as the days often involve lots of walking and standing, as well as ever-changing weather.

In essence, dressing for a Horse Trials involves balancing practicality with style, to ensure you’re prepared for the elements while looking effortlessly chic.

🌿 Badminton Saturday – XC Day 🌿

With the most beautiful weather upon us, it was a case of getting out the dresses for this XC day, this is so far removed from the weather last year, trekking through knee deep mud! I still opted for a pair of boots, as my flat Regina boots from Fairfax & Favor are such a comfortable option. These were teamed with the brand new Olive dress from Schoffel, such a gorgeous light fitting loose dress. Alongside this I went for a brown fedora to match the boots, and a cowhide handbag. This outfit felt so stylish, whilst tying together all of the practicality needed for a day out on the XC course!

Outfit details:

For the men ….

Team together a classic 1/4 zip and linen shirt, with sand cords and a pair of practical leather boots for effortless Horse Trials styling. This 1/4 zip is the new in Lambswool 1/4 zip in Moss from Schoffel Country. This is the perfect laying piece to then throw over your shoulders when the sun comes out!

🏆 Badminton Sunday – SJ Day 🏆

Another really warm day called for another spring outfit! I opted for an all Joules outfit, consisting of an old season denim skirt, and then the new season Selene Linen Shirt and Hatfield Paisley Gilet. I then paired this with a wide brimmed lightweight summer fedora, matching belt, shoes and bag, and of course a pair of sunglasses. This gilet received so many compliments, and I felt the outfit turned out perfectly for heading back onto the XC course to have a look at some of the jumps up close, shopping, and watching the Showjumping!

Outfit details:

For the men …

Styling varying shades of a colour lifts an outfits and keeps a refreshing spring look. Opting for a lightweight striped shirt, and teamed with pale trousers and deck shoes is an effortless Horse Trials style. Wear a jumper over the shoulders, for easy layering.