Equestrian fashion in years 1900-1920

Let’s go back in time, to the year 1900, when women wore long dresses and corsets were still on the agenda. Then, a horsewoman who rode the horse like a man (straddle) was a shocking sight. It was regarded that she was violating the good taste. Riding like a woman among the noblewomen was associated with chastity and purity. It is also worth mentioning that horse-riding was practised among the upper classes.

Equestrian fashion, in comparison to those for the bikers was developing quite slowly. It wasn’t until 1920 when women gain the right to vote that the breakthrough occurred. They were more and more keen on straddle-riding and wearing breeches.

At the beginning, women wore their everyday dresses for rides. It needed time for the riding dresses with long back and sewn-in weights which prevented the wind from exposing the rider to appear. They also wore high hats or bowlers with veil.

In the above pictures you can see a woman dressed in the riding costume. Typical dress with a high collar and characteristic buttons. It is well-fitted to the woman’s body that is squeezed by a corset. She has a high hat on her head and carefully pinned hair.

At the same time, women in the United States began to dress a little more boldly. Their costumes were more alike those of the men worn, for example during hunting.

In the above picture you can see a costume of an American horsewoman from around 1900. It presents the “naughty” look in jodhpurs, high socks, and shoes on a slight heel. She has a corset (what a waist!) and well-fitted jacket with brass buttons. The whole outfit is complemented by gloves and bowler.

Today’s equestrian clothes have evolved from the mentioned above costumes. I don’t know about you, but I’m so happy that I don’t have to ride in a dress, not even mentioning a corset. I cannot imagine my jumping training or rides on hot days in such an armour. Fortunately, those times have passed ;).

Photos’ source: Pinterest