In the first post of this series, we took at look at tabletop accessories in the form of napkin rings  - the jewelry of the elegant equestrian table, if you will. When it comes to the main look of your dining table, though, it’s definitely the china that sets the stage.

I’ve always been of two minds when it comes to formal china. On the one hand, for a practical horse girl, it seems a tad frivolous to keep an entire set of dishes only to be used on rare occasion. On the other hand, “the good china” is often a nostalgic part of family lore and, like a good show bridle, signifies that an event is somehow special.

Wedgewood "Nantucket Basket"

For my own table, I use a minimalist china that is flexible enough to range in formality depending on the occasion. My favorite look is to leave our dark, farmhouse table unclothed to maximize the contrast with the crisp, white Wedgewood “Nantucket Basket” dishes. But this simple, textured pattern can be nicely dressed up with linens for the holidays, too. Not overtly equestrian, a simple style like this lets my tabletop accessories shine and also makes a great transition to outdoor dining.

Noritake by Keltcraft "Pursuit"

My mother, on the other hand, is much more of a traditionalist and her formal dining room is the perfect setting for a hunt-themed china. This is a woman who can set a table with precision, which the intricate scenes of her Noritake by Keltcraft (Ireland) “Pursuit” dishes require. Accessorized with her extensive collection of Arthur Court silver equestrian pieces, many fox-themed, “Pursuit” personifies the elegant equestrian tabletop.

Wedgewood "Equestria"

Wedgewood’s Equestria is another favorite for its subtle strap and and buckle motif in muted browns. The gold rim finishes the pieces with a note of formality and the pattern is both rich and utterly timeless.

Julie Wear "Cheval"

Heavily rooted in tradition, the “Cheval” collection by Julie Wear (she has painted a commissioned horse portrait for Buckingham Palace) strikes a modern equestrian note of polished sophistication that would be at home at an elegant dinner party or tail-gaiting at the polo field. This sleek twist on the iconic snaffle bit is also available in chestnut brown.

Hermes "Cheval d'Orient"

An then, of course, there is the ultimate in equestrian elegance… The Hermes Cheval d’Orient pattern is a brilliantly hued, intricately ornate pattern infused with silk road drama but so transcendant it could be set gracefully anywhere in the world.

#collaboration #equestrian #style

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My dream jacket, the OS+DG “Flynn” jacket in Persimmon #orange #equestrian #style

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Dappled Grey features this post from our kids’ style contributor Zola’s Post.

Cheval Fashions has designed the perfect kids show shirt for the hot summer months. The crisp white fabric is made of 100% cotton waffle weave a lightweight material that drys fast.

The collar and sleeve have a check pattern that is great to show off after taking off your child’s jacket. It has raspberry stitching down the front and adorable flower buttons.

But the bonus feature is the roll up cuff on the sleeve with the flower closure.  Basically, you get two amazing looks in one shirt! It’s a wonderful unexpected way for your child to cool off and look great around the show grounds. Also, shown in a light blue and orange grid pattern.

Zola’s Post chronicles the lifestyle and adventures of a young equestrian rider. The site is a photo diary of things that inspire her. Discover new fashion ideas for inside the ring and out with her personal style posts and fashion collages.

“A to Z style segment” is about Alexandra and Zola sharing their love of fashion together. This guest post written by Alexandra Keeling (aka Zola’s mom) who worked in the fashion industry for 12 years, as a celebrity stylist. She styled her A-list clients for editorial photo shoots, red carpet events, and collaborated with top photographers Helmut Newton and Peter Lindbergh.

 

Dappled Grey features this post from our books contributor Natalie Keller Reinert.

One of the most hotly anticipated reads of 2013 has got something all Dappled Grey readers will appreciate. It’s a summer pick from the critics at NPR, USA Today, and People. It was named a most anticipated book of 2013 by the Wall Street Journal.

But we’re just excited for all the horses.

The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls, Anton DiSclafani’s debut novel, is a masterfully suspenseful coming-of-age tale, the Depression-era story of a teenage girl who has been sent away from her beloved home to live at a young lady’s retreat in the Carolina mountains. Thea Atwell has always lived in the sunshine, a privileged doctor’s daughter on a citrus estate near Gainesville, Florida. But Thea has been exiled, punished by her family for some unspeakable, unknown crime.

At home, Thea and her twin brother, Sam, have always been inseparable. Outside of visits from relatives, they are blissfully isolated, alone together. Thea rides her pony, she does her lessons with her father, she helps her mother when she cannot get out of it. At Yonahlassee, Thea is suddenly thrown, for the first time in her life, into the company of people who are not her own.

Homesickness is a heartbreaker. Thea’s home was more than a place, it was her “little piece of heaven carved from the Florida wilderness.” Yet as a Floridian, a place apart, Thea finds herself out of place amongst the daughters of the unreconstructed South, even declining to identify herself a as a Southerner while dining with the headmaster’s family.

“You’re from the Southernmost state. What else would you be if you were not a Southerner?”

“I’m a Floridian. We’re a different breed.”

But Thea finds herself again in the saddle of a nervy, sensitive mare as fearless and hot-blooded as Thea herself. And while readers will be desperate to find out just what Thea has done to find herself exiled to a girl’s school in the mountains, they’ll find that DiSclafani wields the same control over the story as Thea does over her horse: this is a slowly building, richly rewarding read, and you aren’t going to find out anything in a hurry.

DiSclafani’s equine background — she started out jumping, then quickly moved to dressage, a discipline she still pursues today — is evident in every page. “I definitely wanted to write about horses from the beginning,” she explained to me in a recent phone interview. “That was the whole point of the book, but the role of the horses evolved as I wrote. It became more and important in a way that I hadn’t anticipated.”

Author Anton DiSclafani

Thea’s fearless riding style sets her apart from the girls at Yonahlassee, especially over fences, where she tears around the arena with no thought in her head but higher, faster, best. The thrill of jumping, DiSlafani says, adds to the novel’s appeal. “I guess I toyed for about five minutes with writing about dressage, but the tension isn’t there. It’s hard to write a really compelling scene about whether or not you have a good half-pass. It’s just that the stakes are so clear in jumping,” she adds, laughing. “Are you going to jump this jump or not?”

But DiSclafani assures me she is no Thea. “She’s kind of based on the opposite of me. I am a very cautious person.” Great jumpers, DiSclafani says, seem to “live in the moment and be fearless in a way that I never have been. And that’s so compelling to write about.”

Thea’s fearlessness and sense of control dismay the people around her. A rival student dresses her down for her lack of concern after Thea barely escapes a bad fall:

“She’s spooky… King’s not. He’s dull. That’s how a horse should be, dull and obedient.”

“I like my horses smart,” I said lightly.

“Too smart for their own good, is that how you like them? You lost your stirrup, you almost fell. She would have dragged you around the ring if you had.”

“But I didn’t.” Naari was exhausted, stood perfectly still in the crossties.

“But you could have,” Leona said. I was about to argue, but Leona continued. “The duller a horse is, the better.” She slapped King on the neck. “People are killed in horseback-riding accidents, Thea.” She unhooked King’s crossties; Naari started at the sound of the metal snaps against the concrete floor of the wash rack. “You should request a different horse.”

“But,” she said, as she led King past us, “you won’t, because you’re proud. A horse is a weapon.”

And that is one of the appeals of the horse-girl connection, and the reason why the Yonahlossee Riding Club is a riding club. Could it have been anything else? The Yonahlossee Tennis Club, perhaps? “I just think that there’s something about involving a really big animal in a sport that changes it,” DiSclafani explains. “It’s not just you, it’s you and this really big animal who is just inherently dangerous. There’s something in that relationship that’s just so charged and thrilling… nothing could be more dramatic.”

Anton DiSclafani is working on something new, and she does promise that it has horses in it, although it isn’t the central focus of the book. She admits that she’d like to see more horses in fiction, though, and more sport horses as the subject. “There are a ton of horse racing books, and I like them, but there are not a lot of books for adults about, say, show-jumping, or polo.”

Let’s hope she writes one of them.

The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls is published by Riverhead Books. 

***

Natalie Keller Reinert is an author and horsewoman from Brooklyn, New York. A lifelong Thoroughbred enthusiast, she is founder and editor of Retired Racehorse Blog. Her first novel, The Head and Not The Heart, was released in 2011. Follow Natalie on Twitter at @nataliegallops.

 

The OS + DG Spectator Shirt

Rihanna and Diane Von Furstenburg have done it, so why not Dappled Grey? No, seriously. When Sara Griot approached me last Winter about collaboratively designing a capsule collection for her equestrian apparel label O’Shaughnessey, it was easily one of the most flattering opportunities that has come the way of Dappled Grey.

Collaboration is one of those buzz words that can evoke mixed feelings. We know it’s supposed to be a good thing to collaborate, but the process itself… what does that really look like, particularly when it comes to creative design?

Odd Fellows Cafe in Seattle... the site of many meetings

In the case of O’Shaughnessey + Dappled Grey, it involved more than a few long conference calls, a series of sketches emailed back and forth, overnighted fabric samples, a whirlwind day visit to O’Shaughnessey’s stomping grounds in Seattle, four pantone decks, and a lot of texted photos of the pieces in initial production.

And these were  just the parts of the process I was involved with… Sara’s extraordinary efforts to obtain the finest quality cotton and quilted nylon fabrics from Italy, work with the best patternmakers on the West Coast, and find the perfect colors for our pieces had her on more planes and phone calls than she probably cares to count.

Italian fabric samples

My part really was simple. We started by imagining our customer and what kind of pieces she was looking for, an envisioning that for me is rooted in 4+ years of curating Dappled Grey and filtering readers’ responses to our style content and coverage.

Dappled Grey has always focused on that place where riding and the rest of life converge – the equestrian lifestyle - and the idea was to design a jacket and shirt in styles and fabrics that would be beautiful and functional from “stable to street, ” as readers know I’m fond of saying.

Sketches in progress

Sara’s job was much more difficult, and that’s where her extensive experience as a designer – her private label designs have been sold at the likes of Nordstrom and Saks and  featured in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar - took the collaboration from a nice notion to a real embodiment of our vision. Excitedly, I would open a file of her sketches, miraculously translating the vagaries of our conversations into silhouettes, closures, necklines, and other details!

In April, I was in Seattle with Sara and OS Marketing Director Juliet Sander, color decks and fabrics strewn across our big work table at Odd Fellows Cafe as we strategized the photoshoot, when the first texted image of the “Flynn” jacket came through from the pattern maker in Los Angeles. All three of us practically jumped out of our chairs. It looked amazing and perfect for that equestrian customer we articulated on our first call.

And in the best sense, THAT is what collaboration looks like. Without further ado… see the collection.

The Flynn Jacket, in Persimmon

___

A note about naming: Sara Griot was kind enough to give me a lot of input into the naming of our collab pieces. The Spectator shirt felt like the perfect moniker for this piece’s wearable, referential take on show shirt style. As for the jacket, Flynn is a family name on my mother’s side, a wonderful tribute to my Irish horseman grandfather and beloved grandmother who passed away in January, just as we were beginning the collaboration. ♥

What, you say, is O’Shaughnessey + Dappled Grey? Stay tuned to find our more about our exciting collab launch! #equestrianstyle #collab

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I spy, I die… the Hermes Galop bracelet #swoon

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A visit to the mothership is a necessity when in SF #sanfrancisco #hermes #equestrianstyle

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There’s a certain afterglow when a show like Devon is “on the books” for another year. Here, Dappled Grey friend and equine portrait artist Janet Crawford Hicks shares a few of her snapshots from this year’s show.

Janet's son Danny taking his first trip in the Dixon Oval

All images provided by Janet Crawford Hicks | Equineartwork.com

A rock ‘n roll equestrian after our own heart, Meredith Duncan started making her quirky, irreverent Phyllis Stein tees to satisfy her own amusement and soon ended up selling the shirts off her own back (literally). It’s important to have a sense of humor (especially at a horse show) and Phyllis Stein brings the laughs with signature pieces like the “Breeches & Boots…” and ( the darkly humorous) “Long Spot.”

All Phyllis Stein shirts are cotton/bamboo blend and made in Canada from sustainable, organic fabric. Meredith tells us “Bamboo is naturally anti-microbial (aka anti-stink) and provides low level of SPF naturally. As luck would have it, it also makes b**** look amazing.”

Our favorite, the Hickstead First Edition, is a very limited-run, boyfriend cut  shirt for a super cool, vintage concert tee look. (Get one soon – first runs are almost gone! )

Rock on, Phyllis Stein!

Dappled Grey features this post by contributor Sophie Mae of SophieMaeStyle.com

From the hills of OC to the streets of A-list style-setters, Rachel Bilson always looks fresh and fashionable. I love how she combines different layers and textures to add dimension to her look and this outfit especially is very reminiscent of classic equestrian styling.

The piped black and white blazer and printed silk scarf are very vintage Ralph Lauren, but with a modern twist! This particular jacket is by DKNY, but UK riding brand Spooks carries a beautifully tailored version that will look great in the ring or on the streets.

Remember that the right accessories can complete any look. This printed scarf instantly dresses up an otherwise plain white t-shirt (very Hermes, don’t you think?) and these gold studded booties  (another equestrian-inspired trend) add a bit of fashion flare to traditional blue jeans. Mixing classic tailoring with fun accents instantly adds interest to any outfit.

Rachel’s look proves that you can sport your love for equestrian style every day, while still remaining fashion forward! Here’s how:

Sophie Mae is a Fashion and Wedding Stylist specializing in wardrobe and special event styling. Her clients range from business professionals who are simply too busy to shop, to those who just want to revamp their wardrobe. Sophie offers several personal shopping and styling services to suit every lifestyle and budget. Because Sophie Mae is a huge animal lover, she also serves as the exclusive fashion stylist for the Cowgirls for a Cause apparel line. Sophie even has a free weekly newsletter with style and beauty tips!

 

 

For Styling Information and Fashion Tips visit: sophiemaestyle.com

For Wedding Styling and Photography visit stylishdetails.com

Gucci Horsebit Sandal, $149.94

You know the phrase “never look a gift horse in the mouth.” Well, same goes for Gucci on sale. As in… maybe these aren’t our favorite horsebit sandal heels ever, but at 50% off, DSW is offering a rare opportunity to stick your toes in some Gucci for under $200 and trot off a happy – and stylish – equestrian camper.

Click here for the versatile blue and brown and here for Spring-ready pastels.

We really could devote an entire blog to the inimitable equestrian style of Hermes. This Spring, the French luxury brand unveiled its new Cavale saddle and Ladies Jumping Boot at the stunningly fashionable Saut Hermes horse show in Paris’ Grand Palais. Here we pair it with several other of our favorite new finds from the beloved “H.”

Hermes Cavale saddle, from $8050

Hermes Hamptons saddle pad, $560

Hermes Galop bracelet, $4650

Hermes Ladies Jumping Boot, $2475

B Vertigo Meredith Sweater $82.95; Ida Riding Gloves $31.95; Brighton Saddle Pad $34.95

If you have or ride a horse, chances are you have heard of Horze Equestrian, the Scandanavian brand/retailer that is seemingly everywhere these days and the sponsor of Dappled Grey’s May Giveaway package.

Horze has an interesting history, beginning as a horseshoe manufacturer in the 1980′s then evolving into a full service tack business for the trotting industry. Today, Horze is perhaps best known for it’s stylish, European influence riding apparel and horse equipment.

For our giveaway, Horze Equestrian is outfitting both you and your horse, starting with the Meredith Sweater from their highly popular B Vertigo line. This slim fitting, 100% cotton jersey sweater is full reversible with individual design on each side. In Dark Pink or Dark Blue.

Everyone loves a stylish pair of gloves and the Horze Ida Riding Glove is a pair we’re coveting ourselves. In black or brown, Ida is a breathable, lightweight riding glove with mesh top and decorative crystals. Perfect for a schooling day at a summer show!

Lest we leave out your horse, the final item in our giveaway package is the Brighton All Around Saddle Pad. Turn heads in the Vibrant Yellow, Strong Blue, Fiesta Red, or Bright Green 100% cotton quilted pad. As we always say, go bright or go home!

To enter the givaway, please sign up below and also “like” Horze Equestrian on Facebook. As always, bonus points go to those who leave a message on Horze’s wall telling them you’ve been there! Entries close on Sunday, May 19 and one winner will be randomly selected.

My trainer rocks, pulling out this vintage Charles Owen “helmet of many colors” just for the heck of it… #iconoclast #individualist

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Dappled Grey loves the Gallops girls and this comfy cute sweatshirt… #gallopssaddlery

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Not sure what to say about Casco’s bedazzled peackock helmet... #strut

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So hard to choose between all the gorgeous images of Fitch from his photoshoot with #chevalphotos

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DG fav Tucker Tweed had one of the most beautiful booths at Rolex! #rk3de #shopping

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For all you preppy equestrian girls! #preppy #pinklette #monogram

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Oh but you know I wanted to steal this little guy! #shopdog #westie

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It started with the breeches. Oh, these breeches – so wild we could hardly take it. What type of rider could pull these off?! Maybe Zara, the celeb-utante wild child and anti-heroine of Georgina Bloomberg’s “The A Circuit,” perhaps? Certainly a girl not afraid to turn heads or splurge on a totally impractical piece. What would she pair it with?

Here’s our take:

Accademia Italia Camo Breeches,  $275

James Perse Cap Sleeve Scoopneck Tee, $95

KLB Sunglasses West Side Bernie, $160

Dimacci Foulard, €99.00

TOMS Classic Canvas Slip On, $43

LNA is Lauren Alexander and April Leight. Beginning with the idea of creating the perfect men’s inspired t-shirt for women, their brand has since evolved into producing full, seasonal collections and garnering a loyal celebrity following from Kate Moss to Ryan Gosling. Beyond the coverage in Vogue, Elle, and Harpers Bazaar, the really cool part is that Lauren is also a horse girl, spending her childhood riding competing at the likes of the old Indio circuit in Palm Springs and Devon.

In addition to being native Californians immersed in west coast style, Lauren says her time in the horse world has always influenced her creatively  - the first LNA collection, for example, included an equestrian inspired legging. For ss13, the girls featured a photo of a friend’s horse on a this totally hot tee and Coachella-ready sweatshirt, which have turned out to be the collection favorites. “There’s something very regal and free about a horse which is why I think we are so drawn to them. On a side note, I just realized I’m wearing the horse tee as a write this!”

LNA Double Horse Tee, $90

LNA Horse Sweatshirt, $136

April Leight & Lauren Alexander are LNA

Mothers and daughters often have a special bond around horses and Mother’s Day is a fun time to share those memories – like Dappled Grey’s own Fitch shown here hamming it up with hims mom and grandmother at a wine tasting event.

Earlier this week, we asked readers for their favorite “equestrian mom” stories. They were all lovely and we have published a few excerpts below.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Does my mother listening to Billy Joel on an 8 track as she drove me out to the barn every day count? :-)  – Judith B.

__

My mom tried and tried and tried to back the horse trailer into its parking spot at the barn. She never gave up til she got it perfect. Took days and days. And of course my 14 year old self was mortified with embarrassment. But at the same time I knew that her toiling with the trailer was all for me. Thanks Mom! — Shelley B.

__

My mom aways went to the horse shows in white pants, and stayed clean! Don’t know how she did it. — Kelly H.

__

One time, my mom and I were running super late to get to a show. I was probably 10. Then the song, “She Drives Me Crazy” by Fine Young Cannibals came on the radio and she blasted it to distract me and said “This is a very lucky song! We will make it there on time and you will win today!” Turns out she was right! We made it on time, I won and it’s still to this day my lucky song!! — Arianna V.

__

My mom disliked horses but tolerated my love for them. Once she decided to come to a show – on the muddiest day ever. The pony I was riding, Spice, decided that she really liked my mom. So much so that when my mom came over to congratulate me on my round she stepped on her foot and proceeded to nose her in the chest.  Spice was on her foot she had nowhere to go but over backwards into the largest mud puddle I had ever seen. Thank goodness my mom was a good sport she took it in stride but never attended another show. I cherish that memory. I miss her everyday! – Janet O.

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First time I was on a horse my mom was leading it and I wanted to trot (mind you I was 4 on a 16+ horse) and eventually she caved in and we trotted through the field. It was the start to my riding. — Elianna D.

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My mom gave me a leg up and I went right over my horse! Landed on my feet on the other side! A wonderful memory! — Lizabeth L.

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My mom loves horses and she’s the one who got me started riding. At 34 years old, I call her after almost every lesson and show to tell her how it went and what I learned. - Kerri D.

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Traffic proofing my young horse, she would feed him biscuits as she walked and I rode along the road. Lovely memory xx — April G.

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My mom taught me to ride and train horses. My first endurance ride was the Battle Creek Hunt Club 50 miler. We finished together when I was 9 years old. I loved watching her finish the Old Dominion ride in Virginia one summer. I’m 43 now and still ride. She instilled in me a lifelong passion. I am thankful to have had a relationship with my horses that has sustained me through some very rocky times. — Jocelyn S.

Thank you for these submissions  - there are many other wonderful stories on our Facebook page! 

Who’s going to see Baz Luhrmann’s 3-D and fueled by Jay-Z adaption of The Great Gatsby this weekend? And, more importantly, who thinks Daisy Buchanan would wear this vintage cameo horse necklace by Mars & Valentine? We do.

A stunning white horse head cameo adorns the center piece ensconced in a sterling silver horseshoe.  Mother of pearls and faceted black topaz highlight the center piece and all hang from a double chain of black topaz beads. $340.

We love when Lilo Navales, owner and designer of Lilo of Spain, sends us an update of her new products… especially handbags! Lilo is well-known for her leather goods and has always been on the front of the tack-inspired handbag trend.

For SS 2013, Lilo has introduced the Savannah Collection, made of natural jute fibers with pink and brown leather accents – and of course her signature stirrup.

Paloma Tote

Sandy Bag

Alda Tote

With Mother’s Day just over a week away, let us take you on a tour of some of our favorite equestrian styles that are sure to score with mom.

For the mom who lights up a room with her big smile and bright style: Joules navy stripe rain boot ($78); Hermes enamel “H” bangle ($610); Rebecca Ray Designs “Julie” clutch ($69)

On the other hands, some equestrian moms like to keep their style subtle. Think neutrals:  Cole Haan “Air Sadie” Driver ($124.99); Terrain Horseshoe hook ($18.00); Dressage Collection Large Beach Tote ($295)

Like a flashy hack winner, these gifts ideas are for the mom who loves to turn heads: Aspinal of London Shoe & Stirrup silk scarf ($115); Gucci 60mm sunglasses ($325); C Wonder Trotting Horse belt buckle ($38)

For the equestrian mom who loves a classic style: Thomas Paul “Java” wool horse scarf ($98); Ahipal leather bracelet from Caracol ($99); Marguerite Henry’s classic “Stormy: Misty’s Foal” (collectible editions from $10)

For the “young at heart” equestrian mom: Cavalcade for Tara Kiwi “Gaits of the Horse” tee ($44.50); equestrian charms from Show Stable Artisans (from $48); Notecard collection from Cowgirls for a Cause (6 for $21.95)

Can we offer a collective hand for the fashionable ladies competing at Rolex over the weekend? Not only do these event riders pull off an impressive triple threat of four star dressage, cross country, and show jumping, they do an outstanding job of pulling off stylish spring trends, too!

Shades and pink and salmon were repeated through the outfits of numerous riders participating in the Sunday morning final inspection, and while many looked great, these three looked serious and sharp (seriously sharp?) while demonstrating one of our favorite recurring Spring/Summer fashion mottos: Go Bright or Go Home!

Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken

Lynn Symansky and Donner

Erin Sylvester and No Boundaries

Technically it’s impossible for something to be simultaneously timeless and anachronistic, but riding has always had an element of both for me. Photographer Selena Frederick of Cheval Photos captured this in an instant, just steps away from Andrew Nicholson (NZL) and Quimbo galloping double clear cross country and onto the top of the leaderboard at the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event today.

The horse inspections at a big international event always draw a large crowd, as much to see the horses as to check out the “streetwear” style of one’s favorite riders.

In our book, the inimitable Mary King (GBR)  - also a style ambassador and collaborator with the British apparel company Joules - had a lock on best dressed during today’s jog for the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event. King and her 2011 Rolex 2nd place finisher Fernhill Urco were a perfect picture of fashion chemistry, with the horses’s dappled grey coat complemented by Mary’s soft & sporty Spring attire.

–

Image by Cheval Photos

An equestrian fashionista’s favorite shopping destination on the Philadelphia “Main Line,” Polka Dots Boutique recently teamed up with Devon Horse Show photographer extraordinaire Brenda Carpenter for a seasonal photoshoot set against the famed Dixon Oval’s distinctive blue grandstand.

As if we weren’t already in the mood for the historic and fashionable event that is Devon, Polka Dots has upped the excitement with these gorgeous “Ladies Day” looks suitable for spectators of any age!

For more on Brenda Carpenter, one of Dappled Grey’s favorite photographers, click here.

All images by Brenda Carpenter

For our April Giveaway, part of our monthly showcase of equestrian artisans, designers, and retailers from around the world, Dappled Grey is so excited to feature a gift package from accessories shop Pinklette.

Actual gift package contents: Croc Bit Bracelet and Julie Clutch from Rebecca Ray Designs. Retail value $147.

Proprietress Dove Donovan may have bohemian roots (her parents went to Woodstock), but Pinklette is decidedly preppy and equestrian chic. With her extraordinary eye for color, trends, and new twists on classic styles, Dove’s shop has quickly become a blogger and equestrian fashionista’s favorite.

For Dappled Grey, Pinklette has put together a gift package including not just one but two (!) fabulous spring styles from Rebecca Ray Designs. The Croc Bit Bracelet in chartreuse leather is a classic, handmade equestrian piece with nickel bit detail. The Julie Clutch in navy (with chartreuse accent) is fashioned from luggage-weight ballistic nylon and features a coordinating cotton floral lining, size 9″ x 11″ x 2″

To enter the givaway, please sign up below and also “like” Pinklette on Facebook. Bonus points go to those who leave a message on Pinklette’s wall telling them you’ve been there! Entries close on Sunday, April 21 and one winner will be randomly selected.

Pinklette is also offering Dappled Grey’s readers 20% off on all purchases through July 31. Use the code “dappled” to receive this discount and let Pinklette know we sent you!

Monogram Shoe Clips from Pinklette. Not in the giveaway but you know you want them! $48

OMG. Cuuuuuute! Squeeeeee! The Joules Moxie is the most adorable little person polo shirt. EVER.

We’re loving everything Spring and soft and colorful right now… like these delicate ceramic bowls and mugs from Sweden’s Mia Blanche. A pair of each of them, please.

Svennis small cup for espresso or tea

Lill-Sven small dessert or breakfast bowl

Sven latte mug

Spring is a busy time of year for milliner Brooke Terronez of Studio 910, who creates stock and custom bridal and Kentucky Derby pieces for clients around the US. Stunning headwear is a Derby Day fashion tradition and, for those seeking a style for this year’s race, we’re especially partial to Studio 910′s fascinator designs (shown below), which can be versatatile, fun, and wearable with a variety of fashion choices.

A rider in her own right who takes inspiration from vintage racing photographs, Terronez says “Much like millinery, equestrian sport is beautiful, daring, and bold. Perhaps this is why I love them both so very much.”

"Isla" Fascinator

"Kate" Fascinator

"Valerie" Fascinator

Studio 910
1-855-212-0910
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Oh my goodness, prepare to swoon over Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi’s incredible equestrian oasis. The 26 acre property, featuring eight cabins and multiple barns, is nestled against the Santa Monica mountains north of Los Angeles and is profiled in this month’s Elle Decor. See the full article here.

In the article, Portia jokes that antique collector De Generes "fills the stalls with furniture."

Image courtesy of Elle Decor, William Abranowicz photography.

The recent passing of American fashion icon Lilly Pulitzer has us pondering the power and mystery of a great print. Case in point: the SS13 lookbook we recently received from Paris-based high fashion label Lavalliere, created by Kyoko Shimada, prominently featuring this graphic saddle print. It’s all there – the canvas effect, the movement, the fun.

Since its inception in 2010, Lavalliere has been equipping France’s equestrian elite and dressing top level show jumpers such as Electra Niarchos, Valentine Pozzo di Borgo, and Alexandra Paillot.

The SS13 collection applies the same style and function of the brand’s equestrian heritage to the modern traveler, incorporating racing silks, velvet, waxed cotton, and, of course, the saddle print. We really, really love this print.

Lavalliere silk saddle print dress

Lavalliere red silk saddle print long dress

Lavalliere jersey legging and jodphur boots

Lavalliere navy and red stretch cotton riding jackets

The orange leather wrap bracelet by Deux Chevaux, as worn by@jenmaiser. #orange #equestrian #armparty

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RIP #lillypulitzer, the princess of pink and grande dame of colorful#equestrian style.

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Fitch met a new friend today, the lovely @selenafred of #chevalphotos

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It’s a bit of a cruel thing to do, showing you the perforated Glory Satchel from Dressage Collection, because they are actually sold out in all of the delicious Spring colors (saddle and black still available). Ditto for the Hobo, Crossbody, and Tote versions too.

Consolation? In a more earthy palette, check out the Canvas Mini Beach Tote.

Dappled Grey features this post from our kids’ style contributor Zola’s Post.

Alexa Pessoa’s pop-up shop “Mouse Makes Three” was the place to shop at WEF! Her store was filled with colorful decorations and stylish kids clothes. Yeah, a fun kids store at the show!!!

I picked up a floral top and navy shorts by Milly’s Mini’s.  She had the best selection of Eggy, Splendid, Hatley, and baskets of hair bows. The buzz in The International Club was “Mouse” has a new shipment. I loved meeting Alexa and seeing the adorable pictures of her daughter Sophia (aka Mouse) They are the cutest family!!!

Visit Mouse Makes Three on Twitter!

Zola and Mouse Makes Three's Alexa Pessoa

Zola’s Post chronicles the lifestyle and adventures of a young equestrian rider. The site is a photo diary of things that inspire her. Discover new fashion ideas for inside the ring and out with her personal style posts and fashion collages.

 

A great big beautiful thank you to all who contributed to our equestrian chic wedding series, created by Equinox Photo and Stylish Details. Kudos to fashion stylish Sophie Mae Style, Quail Haven Farm, Ruche, Express, floral designer Briana Maxson, makeup and hair stylist Angela Wallace Vennes, and models April Rand, Kyler Meteer, Samantha Penley, Ryan Johnson. Equine models Merino & Tigger – you stole the show!

{The Details}

Wedding Dresses, Jewelry, & Accessories: Ruche

Menswear: Express

Photography: Tricia Meteer for Stylish Details

Fashion Styling: Sophie Mae for Stylish Details

Hair & Makeup: Angela Wallace-Vennes

Floral Design: Briana Maxson

Location: Quail Haven Farm, Vista, CA

Models: Samantha Penley; Ryan Johnson

Horse: Merino

Could there be a more gorgeous backdrop for wedding photos than a dappled grey stallion? The play between strong and feminine continues throughout the styling in Vol. 3 of our equestrian chic wedding series created by Stylish Details, including the bride’s loose bun and bold maroon lip by Angela Wallace Vennes. Floral designer Briana Maxson masterfully mixes structured roses with soft country garden florals like poppies and green dewcup. Bridal apparel and accessories by Ruche; men’s apparel by Express.

{The Details}

Wedding Dresses, Jewelry, & Accessories: Ruche

Menswear: Express

Photography: Tricia Meteer for Stylish Details

Fashion Styling: Sophie Mae for Stylish Details

Hair & Makeup: Angela Wallace-Vennes

Floral Design: Briana Maxson

Location: Quail Haven Farm, Vista, CA

Models: April Rand; Kyler Meteer

Horse: Merino

Guides like Rustic Wedding Chic are filled with beautiful photos and tips on how to decorate a barn for the perfect farm-inspired weddings. But don’t forget the litte details of a location that lend themselves to authentic country charm. The dirt paths, split rail fencing, and English country gardens at Quail Haven Farm, in the Bonsall foothills of Vista, California, all work together to complement the 1800′s red and white barn where couples say “I Do… and We Did!!” (The wooden sign is a very popular photo opp for the brides and grooms married at this working horse farm.)

Created for Dappled Grey by Equinox Photo and Stylish Details, the fashions in this second edition of our equestrian-inspired wedding series take their cue from the much anticipated film adaption of The Great Gatsby (May 2013). The creamy champagne color and layered texture of the dress echos the sleek, vintage feel of the bride’s handmade headpiece. The groom’s grey pants and vest, topped with a patterned bow tie, underscore an art deco influence that pairs perfectly with our gorgeous guest Merino, the dappled grey (of course!) Andalusian stallion.

{The Details}

Wedding Dresses, Jewelry, & Accessories: Ruche

Menswear: Express

Photography: Tricia Meteer for Stylish Details

Fashion Styling: Sophie Mae for Stylish Details

Hair & Makeup: Angela Wallace-Vennes

Floral Design: Briana Maxson

Location: Quail Haven Farm, Vista, CA

Models: April Rand; Kyler Meteer

Horse: Merino

If wedding bells are in your future, an equestrian-inspired wedding can combine the very best of everything – a beautiful outdoor location, comfortable elegance, and PONIES!

In the first edition of this gorgeous four-part photo series created for Dappled Grey by Equinox Photo and Stylish Details, simple elegance  - the hallmark of equestrian style – rules the day. Stylist Sophie Mae of Stylish Details tells us, “In a sunny, outdoor location, a short style dress, like the one shown here from Ruche, is ceremony-appropriate or can be worn for the reception.  A vintage hair piece for the bride and patterned shirt for the groom creates a modern look that’s still totally grounded in rustic country chic.”

As for the wedding party, we know the bridesmaids should never upstage the bride on her big day, but a spotted pony name Tigger?? Now that might be ok!

{The Details}

Wedding Dresses, Jewelry, & Accessories: Ruche

Menswear: Express

Photography: Tricia Meteer for Stylish Details

Fashion Styling: Sophie Mae for Stylish Details

Hair & Makeup: Angela Wallace-Vennes

Floral Design: Briana Maxson

Location: Quail Haven Farm, Vista, CA

Models: Samantha Penley; Ryan Johnson

Pony: Tigger

Rustic Wedding Chic by Maggie Lord

Spring has officially sprung, heralding the arrival of daffodils and equestrian celebrations like the Derby, Devon, and Rolex. Not far behind is wedding season and, if you haven’t already noticed, the mega trend in matrimonial soirees is Rustic Wedding Chic.

From decorating the barn to haybale seating to transporting guests on a flatbed truck, Maggie Lord’s gorgeous, aptly-named coffee table book provides plenty of inspiration for couples who want fashionably countrified wedding. For equestrians, this trend is just the rest of the world catching on to our desire to pretty much live in the barn (we would if we could). 160 full-color burlap and mason-jar filled pages.

Editor’s Note: If you dream of walking down the aisle includes having your horse on hand, check out our equestrian wedding photo series created for Dappled Grey by Equinox Photo and Stylish Details!

Dappled Grey features this post from guest contributor Emily Johnsen. 

Credit: Photograph by Travis Magee, Courtesy Creative Time and MTA Arts for Transit

Celebrating the centennial of Grand Central Terminal, Chicago-based artist Nick Cave was commissioned by Creative Time, a non-profit organization which produces imaginative public art projects worldwide, and the MTA Arts for Transit to create HEARD•NY, an awe-inspiring presentation of both visual and performance art. Cave’s installation included 30 life-size horse sculptures that were, at times, worn by 60 dancers from The Ailey School in New York. On view from March 25-31, the elaborate costumes were displayed in Vanderbilt Hall, where they would come to life for two performances each day.

Handcrafted from synthetic raffia, each of the horses was constructed unique in its own color and design. They wore decorative facemasks embellished with patterns belonging to different countries, echoing the global and cultural identity of this major transportation hub. The texture of the mixed-media sculptures, or “Soundsuits” as the artist calls them, aided in the interpretation of movement as the horses swooshed around the space in both choreographed and improvisational dances. To their delight, audience members were encouraged to pet the creatures as they greeted them or trotted by, offering viewers a full sensory experience.

Credit: Photograph by James Prinz, Courtesy Nick Cave Studio

Playfully engaging the audience’s imagination, the artist shapes the environment of his performances. Cave says, “We used to be dreamers, thinking ‘What would I like to be?’ But under the stresses of contemporary life, we seem to have lost that capacity. With works like HEARD•NY, I try to create a moment that brings us back to dreaming and fantasy, to a state of mind where we can think about alternative ways of being.”

Transforming the space into a world of wonder, Cave provided a dreamlike escape for the tourists, commuters and children who came to see his work. The magical nature of his gentle giants enthralled people of all ages during this participatory event. For a moment, passers-by could step away from the hustle and bustle of New York City to partake in the carefree excitement and jubilation of this celebratory occasion.

Credit: Photograph by Travis Magee, Courtesy Creative Time and MTA Arts for Transit

Credit: Photograph by Travis Magee, Courtesy Creative Time and MTA Arts for Transit

Credit: Photograph by Travis Magee, Courtesy Creative Time and MTA Arts for Transit

Emily Johnsen is an arts administrator and freelance writer living in New Jersey. Actively involved in the contemporary art scene, she has a particular interest in equine art. Follow Emily on Twitter at @emilyjohnsen.

Dappled Grey features this post from our European equestrian style contributor Equiport.

It’s an exciting time at Equiport at the moment, as the Spring/Summer fashion collections arrive, and we can’t wait for the outdoor show season to get underway. While we dream of long, hot summer days (while outside we’re stil subjected to endless drizzle – well, it is the UK), here are our hottest picks of this month’s new arrivals.

Spooks Blue Show Jacket

Spooktacular!

Spooks is the latest equestrian fashion brand to take the UK by storm and show jumpers all over the country are coveting the stylish new show jacket. It is available in a variety of colours, our favourite is the Spooks Blue Show Jacket  (above) with striking white binding, which offers a contemporary twist on the traditional look. Elegantly tailored from a stretchy machine washable fabric, the jacket features many stylish details including logo embroidery, branded buttons and sleeve zips. Priced £200/$303.

Co-ordinate your jacket with a feminine-cut Spooks Show Shirt II. It has a longer cut to tuck comfortably into breeches without riding up over fences, while the cute puff sleeves mean you’ll stay on trend when walking around the showground between classes. The stand-up collar with Spooks embroidery details makes it perfect for show jumping, but we reckon it would look just as good teamed with a stock tie for dressage or eventing. Available in sky blue, white or navy. Priced £47.99/$72.

Spooks Show Shirt

Layer Up

If you need an extra layer over your show shirt on chillier days, check out the B Vertigo Nelly Sweater. In ice cream shades of vanilla and soft pink, this cotton V-neck is the perfect way to update your equestrian wardrobe for Spring. We love the pale brown artificial leather breeches-style elbow patching with stitching to mimic knee patches, which adds a horsey twist to your outfit away from the yard, too. Priced £72.75/$110.

B Vertigo Nelly Sweater

Patent It

Set off those patent-trimmed boots and bridle with the Roeckl Sports London Riding Gloves, featuring a black patent stripe and modern fastening. These gloves don’t just look amazing, they’re designed for optimum comfort and performance too. The combination of soft, lightweight micro mesh on the back of the hand and the elastic non-slip palm make the gloves ultra-comfortable, allowing a perfect grip and feel. Shown here with a gold trim for those who like to make a statement, and they are also available in navy. Priced £39/$59. We even have Patent Leather Spur Straps to complete your outfit, priced £9.99/$15.

Roeckl London Glove with Patent Accent

A Horse? Or a Zebra?

That’s right – we’re going to be dressing our horses up as zebras this summer. No, we’re not channeling the plains of Africa, there’s actually a scientific reason behind the black and white stripes of the Bucas Buzz-Off Zebra Fly Sheet. Apparently flies find stripes confusing and avoid them, so we’re looking forward to happy, fly bite-free horses. The super-fine mesh blocks even the smallest of insects and reduces the effects of ultraviolet radiation, helping to prevent coat-bleaching. Priced £106/$160. Matching fly mask £17/$25.

Bucas Buzz Off Fly Sheet in Zebra

Equiport is the UK’s leading store for unique equestrian apparel. We ship worldwide, bringing you the latest European fashion brands, most innovative equipment and bespoke saddle cloths, rugs and show jackets manufactured at our base in Cheshire, England. If you want to stand out from the crowd, Equiport is the place to go. Visit www.equiport.co.uk.