Boots To Blazers: Your Ultimate Guide To Dressing For Horse Shows

Horse shows: who doesn’t love them? They’re community events, foster friendly competition, showcase some of the most beautiful animals in the world, and offer competitors a unique avenue to advertise their skills in handling and riding.

They also give participants a little freedom when it comes to putting together an ensemble for a horse show. Competitors - both men and women - can dress conservatively or as garishly as they like - but there are still some helpful guidelines you should follow, based on the size, scope, and discipline of the show.

These are not hard or fast rules, but this guide from Jackson’s English and Western Store should help you cut a caper at your next horse show, be it your first or your fiftieth!

How Do You Dress for Horse Shows

1. Shirts: The Art of Nailing First Impressions

A shirt worn at a horse show can make a statement for you. Whether you're participating or watching, it is essential to wear clean, properly fitting shirts. While in the ring, opt for a long-sleeve button-up or a tailored blouse. Subtle colors like traditional white, light blue, or gentle plaid patterns are winners all the way. Breathable fabrics such as cotton or moisture-wicking blends are a wise choice if you are a spectator. It will keep you comfortable, particularly in warmer weather. It's all about maintaining a balance between form and function.

2. Pants and Jeans with Chaps: The Power Combo

Your pants or jeans must fit like they were made for you—tight enough to stay put but with enough flexibility for movement. Many opt for tailored breeches or well-worn jeans paired with leather chaps. Chaps add that extra layer of style and protection, especially in Western events. Dark-colored jeans with minimal fading are perfect for blending practicality with showmanship. Spectators can relax a bit more—go for smart jeans or well-cut trousers, but avoid anything too tight or uncomfortable.

3. Boots, Spurs, and Buckles: Your Stepping Stones to Success

In the world of horse shows, polished, well-heeled boots are crucial. Riders lean toward classic leather riding boots, either knee-high or ankle-high, with a snug fit. Spurs, if worn, need to complement your look and be used with care. As for shiny belt buckles, bigger is better in the Western world, but don't let it steal the show. Spectators, comfortable boots are your best friend!

4. Vests, Jackets, and Blazers: The Finishing Touch

When it comes to layering at horse shows, vests, jackets, and blazers add that extra layer of sophistication while serving a practical purpose. Riders often lean on tailored blazers for English riding events, offering a clean, polished silhouette that complements their overall look. Tweed or wool blazers in neutral tones are the classic choice, but a well-fitted black or navy jacket works just as well, ensuring you're show-ring ready. Western riders might opt for a vest—both stylish and functional, providing freedom of movement while keeping you looking sharp. For spectators, a lightweight jacket or blazer is your go-to, offering versatility and protection from the elements without compromising on style. The key is a perfect fit, adding structure and polish to any horse show outfit!

5. Jewelry and Accessories

Jewelry at horse shows is a choice between style and safety. You don't want anything catching on reins, saddles, or clothing mid-ride—it's as uncomfortable as it is unsafe. Western riders may have a bit more leeway with subtle touches like bolo ties or concho belts. The key is to keep it functional and minimal. Spectators, on the other hand, can go with maybe a bold statement necklace or some silver rings, but nothing that'll get in the way of clapping!

Why Is There Special Western Wear for a Horse Show

The main reason there is special western wear associated with horse shows is that different riding and handling disciplines have traditionally been associated with different clothing and tack.

It comes down to practicality, comfort, and in some instances, safety.

The other reason is that certain western organizations prescribe their own rules or guidelines on what western wear is appropriate for each discipline, from showmanship to pleasure riding.

Here’s what you need to know about western wear for horse shows, both local and national, for men and women.

Halter/In-Hand Showing

In-hand showing or a halter show gives a handler the ability to show off the discipline and training of their horse, as well as to demonstrate the horse’s natural appeal and physical stature.

In halter or in-hand showing, the horse is not ridden, only led by the halter. The horse should be well-groomed and perfectly disciplined.

Local Horse Shows

For local in-hand shows, conservative dress is generally better than gaudy western dress, as you want the judge or judges to take note primarily of the horse and not of you. It is wise, however, to color coordinate with the horse as appropriate.

For men, proper dress consists of a starched western shirt (with a tie) and jeans, a western hat and boots, and a belt with a buckle.

For ladies, appropriate dress consists of a western blouse, starched jeans or show pants, a western hat, western boots, and a belt with a buckle. A conservative vest, jacket, or blazer can also be appropriate.               

National Horse Shows

For national in-hand horse shows, the guidelines for men's and women’s western clothing are generally the same, however for women, a vest, blazer, or jacket should be incorporated, and for men, a sport coat or blazer should be added as well.

Showmanship

The horse is also not ridden in a showmanship competition. Instead, the handler is judged on his or her ability to halter the horse and may be judged on his or her skill in guiding the horse through a pattern.

Local Horse Shows

For local showmanship competitions, men should wear jeans, a starched western shirt with a tie or scarf, a coat or blazer, western boots, a western hat, and a belt with a buckle.

Women should wear jeans or show pants, a blouse or slinky top with a vest, blazer, or jacket. Women should also wear a cowgirl’s western hat, western boots, a belt with a buckle, and gloves. Makeup can also make a noticeable impression before judges.

National Horse Shows

The national showmanship dress recommendations for men as the same as they are for local or regional shows.

For women, however, we recommend show pants instead of jeans. Otherwise, the same recommendations apply.

Horsemanship

In horsemanship shows, the rider is in the spotlight. The horse is not judged; only the rider, in his or her ability to handle and guide the horse confidently and correctly. Both the form and abilities of the rider are under particular scrutiny; therefore, appropriate dress is a must.                                    

Local Horse Shows

For men in local horsemanship shows, chaps are appropriate, as are starched jeans. Men should wear a western shirt with a scarf, along with a cowboy hat, boots, a belt, and a buckle.

Women should wear a fitted blouse (vest optional), show pants and show tops, gloves, western boots, a cowgirl hat, and a belt and buckle.

National Horse Shows

For men in national horsemanship shows, the guidelines for western dress are the same. For women, the guidelines are generally the same as well, but consider color coordination with the horse and wearing form-fitting, tailored garments.

Pleasure

In pleasure riding horse shows, the horse is ridden and judged on appearance, manner, and grace. Color coordination with the horse is vital to making an impressive, positive display on judges.

Local Horse Shows

For men in local pleasure horse shows, the guidelines are effectively the same as they are for horsemanship shows: a western shirt and scarf, jeans and chaps, cowboy boots, a hat, and a belt with a buckle.

Women in local pleasure horse shows should wear a blouse or slinky top (vest optional) with show pants and chaps, with gloves, a hat, boots, and a belt and buckle.

National Horse Shows

For both men and women in national pleasure horse shows, the guidelines are the same. Women, however, might choose more elaborate, ornate, or glittery clothing, accessories, and tack.

Trail

In trail riding competitions, the rider navigates a horse through a course containing obstacles. The horse is judged on its skill and abilities, and as such, it behooves the rider to wear comfortable western clothing that allows for a full, free range of movement for deft control of the horse. However, appearance still counts, so coordinating with the horse is a good idea.

Local Horse Shows

Men in local horse shows should wear a western shirt with a scarf, jeans, and chaps, a hat, boots, and a belt with a buckle.

Women should wear a blouse or slinky top (vest optional), show pants or jeans with chaps, boots, a hat, gloves, and a belt with a buckle.

National Horse Shows

Again, in national trail riding horse shows, the recommendations are generally the same for men and women as they are in local or regional competitions. Once more, women may opt for more noticeable clothing that is coordinated with the horse, such as clothing studded with stones or brightly trimmed or embroidered.

About Speed Games

Speed games, such as barrel racing and pole bending, are also popular competitions, but because the games can be fast-paced, safety is often encouraged over appearance.

Some games may allow men or women riders to wear western hats, but other venues may encourage riding helmets. Also, chaps or other clothing that have fringes and zippers that can catch on things may be allowed but still discouraged.

Otherwise, long sleeved western shirts, jeans or show pants, western hats, boots, belts, buckles, and gloves are appropriate.

Visit Us in Our Western Store in Wayland, Michigan

There’s a lot of western wear for both men and women in our online western store. We carry pretty much everything you need to prepare for a horse show at either the local or national level.

However, if you really want to see what we offer, come and visit us in our western store in Wayland, Michigan. We have over 4,000 pairs of cowboy boots in stock and carry western hats, shirts, clothing, tack, and other accessories from all the industry’s most popular brands.

Plus, if you visit us in-store, you’ll be able to work one-on-one with our experienced customer service reps. We also offer free boot fitting, stretching, and break-in services with each purchase. That alone is worth a visit!

Check out our online store and get in touch with us at 269-792-2550 if you have any questions before visiting.