The Extra Edge

This page provides a wide variety of information that a Saddle Seat exhibitor may find useful.  As we continue to learn other tidbits of interest we will post them, so please check back often.   Many times our customers are an excellent source of information.  If you would like to share something that has worked well for you, in or out of the show ring, you are more than welcome to tell us.

Need a good fitting bra....

We highly recommend Champion's MAX MCR (Max Motion Control Requirements) BRA  or HIGH MCR  (High Motion Control Requirements) BRA, for our customers who need or want added support when training and/or showing.  These bras really help control bounce and provide maximum support during high intensity activities.  Champion specifies that these bras are made for one who participates in equestrian activities. 

Made with or without an under wire, the cups are designed to stabilize and the sweat wicking fabric keeps the exhibitor drier.  Breathable mesh, a keyhole adjustable back and the gel-cushioned closure also add to comfort.  Sizes start at 32C through 42DD.  Well worth the price (about $40.00 at www.championcatalog.com).   Often times found at a lower price at www.onehanesplace.com. 

Allow a reasonable amount of time to "break-in" your new sports bra.  Wear it several times before a show.  

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Tips about caring for your show attire

    • Some of the following recommendations may seem redundant to a seasoned exhibitor.  It is through our years of experience that we provide this information.

    • Always keep your show coat on a well padded hanger (no plastic or wire hangers please).  A light weight cloth (like a clean cotton sheet) or cloth bag to cover your garments is far superior to plastic products to protect them from dust and dirt.  The only purpose a plastic bag serves is to protect your garments while bringing them from the dry cleaner to home.  Make sure the plastic dry cleaning bag completely covers your garments while en route to home.   Plastic bags breed mold and dust -- light damage -- and may dry out suede knee patches. 

    • Bring a lint roller to every show for quick touch-ups before entering the show ring.   A soft bristle brush should be used sparingly due to the stress it may cause to some fabrics.  

    • Try to use the same pin holes for back number pins, as well as decorative pins worn on your coat lapel.  

    • Amidst the intensity and excitement of showing, do try to have someone help you put your coat on shortly before your class, especially if you're in saddle.   At the conclusion of your class it is best to keep your garments away from the sunlight.  Keeping a Dupioni Silk away from the sun is extremely critical.  As a protein fabric, silk will fade if left in the sunlight for an extended period of time.

    • Keep a container of alcohol-free baby wipes in your tack box.  When horse sweat appears on your coat (and eventually it will) use a few wipes and gently scoop away the sweat.  This practice will make the dry cleaner's job a lot easier.   Use the wipes as soon as your class if over, if possible so the sweat doesn't set in the fabric. 

    • When returning from a show, keep your garments indoors in a temperature controlled environment, that is also well ventilated.  It is best not to keep them in a tack room. Thoroughly and gently brush your garments after each show.  Unless there are serious stains on any garment, it is simply NOT necessary to dry clean after each show.  Frequent dry cleaning can be stressful to many fabrics and everyone's budget.  A quick steaming will remove wrinkles.  

    • Not all dry cleaners are created equally.  Make every effort to develop a good relationship with a reputable dry cleaner, to protect your investment.  Suggest that your garments be cleaned with fresh fluid.  Used or old fluid will not remove some spots and/or stains, while actually dis-coloring many fabrics.  

    • No-no's are club soda or nail polish remover -- they can aggravate the stain making it impossible to remove.

    • Wait at least a week before wearing your show coat if you have colored or permed your hair.  Keep your coat safely away from strong hair chemicals.  

    • Never press a stain on any garment as the stain may become permanently set. 

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General Saddle Seat Suggestions

The Saddle Seat discipline is one that suggests a most dignified look in the show ring.   Below are a few suggestions to enhance your show ring experience.   

Since the invention of talc free mineral make-up, most of our customers prefer using that product...a much better option than liquids.  Use eye make-up sparingly particularly during the warmer Summer months.  Some classes last a long time and exhibitors will perspire.  What may have looked delightful before a class may drip in the show ring.  Lipstick should be a subtle shade of cream red. 

Hair should be pulled back with a hair net (if necessary) and a hair bun should be visible at the exhibitor's neck (at the back of her derby or homburg).  Many riders enjoy wearing a small tastefully colored hair bow that is placed toward the center of the hair bun.

Should you wear a French cuff shirt, tasteful cuff links must be worn.

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 Oh Those Jewels
 
Earrings should be small -- pearls, diamonds, cz's, colored stones and under no circumstances should earrings dangle.  Keep your lapel pins at a reasonable size.  Equine related pins are preferred.  A small artificial flower (preferably a rose) is in good taste, too. 

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