Conference noted::equitation

    Wendi-Juanita:
    
    My daughter did not show this year. However, in this area (Colorado)
    ultra suede chaps are popular in the AHSA circuit. Although the
    material is expensive, it is washable. Also, instead of fringes
    scalloped chaps are popular.
    
    I don't know about the Denver Stco Show being a trend setter. The
    way I understand it, the Arabian people in California are the ones
    setting the trends.
    
    Take care.
    
    bobkl
    

    
    	SCALLOPED CHAPS??? I thought that went out ten years ago, I
    have seen people at Quarter-rama with them but I just thought they
    were out of date. (you know the type cant get rid of old clothes,
    Iam guilty of that one)  Anyway would you them say even if I'm riding
    quarterhorse national circuit, it is safe to follow the styles in
    the arabian world?? sounds great to me.  
    		and yes ultra suede is the way to go.  It dries over
    night for the next days show, hold colors well and
    			the greatest of all it is cooler.
    		
    		thanks, any more good stuff you know of??
    			
    
    				wendy-jaunita
    

    Wendi-Juanita
    Don't know about that one. I mean, I don't know if following Arabian
    trends woulod be the safe thing to do. The AHSA breeds that I have
    seen include Arabians, Morgans, saddlebreds, walkers, etc and they
    pretty much copy the arabian trends since many of the shows are
    multibreed. The Quarter horse has its own association and don't
    show with other breeds very much (exception around here is the Stock
    Show and the Colorado Classic, but even in those shows the quarter
    horses show on just one day and don't mix with the other breeds)
    so I don't know how influenced they are by arabian trends. My own
    perception is that they are more conservative and show clothes don't
    change as much. That's my own perception based on looking at 4H
    kids around here.
    
    the lady who did the clothes for my daughter watches the arabian
    trends and fits quite a few kids around here. she thinks scalloped
    chaps make for a longer more elegant leg.
    
    take care.
    
    bobk
    

    Well, I'm not "out West", but the trends here are _NOT_ toward
    scalloped chaps!  
    
    Color of the horse makes such a difference with colors you choose.
    I find brighter colors work better on grey's and light chestnuts,
    pastels work better with dark bays, chestnuts, and blacks.  What
    I'm getting at is that it's not as nice a picture to see navy chaps
    on a dark bay as it is to see navy chaps on a grey.
    
    One of the most striking outfits I saw all season was on a young
    lady showing on the Appy circuit.  She wore a very pastel peach
    hat, chaps, and gloves, and a tiny checked shirt with the puffy
    sleeves and ruffled collar.  She wore a small tie with a concho
    in the center...her chaps had a single concho in the center in the
    back.    Her horse was a dark chestnut with white stockings, white
    blaze, white blanket, flaxen mane and tail.  The mare wore a pastel
    peach bow in her forelock and in two small braids in the mane.
    
    Pink seems to have worn itself out, but various shades of blue are
    always popular.  Mint green's another biggie. 
    
    Hope that helps some!
    
    Ann

    		
    	well now were getting somewhere, I have a palomino with three
    white stockings, and blaze.  For halter I wear a white hat, white
    blazer and black pants.  I take five shirts to match to above.
    One is light pink with white collar, with balck silk tie to match.
    I also wear the tie with a shirt that is light
    blue/darkerblue/white/black thin pinstripes, with a white collar.
    or i wear just a bright red blouse with the big bow attached. all
    with black gloves.  but.... I would like to use a different color
    scheme, leaning towards the pastels but i cant figure out what to
    use.  I ride with black chaps, light pink/biege(ish) with scalloped
    dark brown chaps, light blue/scalloped with grayand gray fringe.
    and last but not least a taupe color chap, that i havent finnished
    making.......  well?? what do you think?
    		wendy
    

    Regarding .5
    
    What's wrong with a pale grey shirt?  Grey goes with pink, black,
    mauve, just about anything!  A forest green might work too, hard
    to judge just by a description over a tube, maybe even yellow would
    work.
    
    Ann

    
    
    		I think you got something Ann... mauve I never thought
    of that color. thanks for the suggestion.  Well I better get sewing
    if I'm going to get done by april. ;^)
    		wendy

    Wendy, where do you get your chaps?  I had Michelle Minehan thru
    the Horsemans Exchange Tack Shop, make mine for the past few years, 
    but I"ve seen chaps at the Quarter Horse shows that I like better, 
    and would like to know other places that make them.  I recently
    bought a Grey QuarterHorse Mare and will start showing her next
    spring, if anyone has any suggestions on a color combo for us I'd
    appreciate it.  I'm leaning towards grey/mauve.  I saw a beautiful
    outfit at the last NEQHA show, Fawn colored and wanted that for
    my Bay, but alas, won't be showing him anymore.  I'm going to go
    to the last Quarter horse show Thanksgiving weekend in Oneco and
    scout the outfits!
    

    
    		Well lets see the lightpink/biege (YOU"LL might call
    fawn colored?) with dk brown, I had custom made when I was 14 in
    denver.  The black ones I had made by Ester ,and that been 4 years
    now. And the others I made myself.  On your grey mare *I* would
    use A richer color, (you'll also want to consider the colors of
    your tack as well, depending on the events you ride in pleasure
    or equitation). take into consideration of your mares coloring (points)
    and white markings. If you have some areas of the mare you want
    to hide play up the good points of the horse. And start from there.
    Some popular colors last year (i cant use them) but... dusty rose
    is and nice color with a light grey. there again, there are many
    varations of greys. I like a pastels of a lilac, mint green would
    be really pretty depending on your build/height. and make sure you
    have your gloves, hat taken into consideration.
    
    		the horse show is in Oneco? conn?  Id be interested
    in going with you.  But keep in mind that the styles back here are
    about two years behind the midwest. I generally wear what the midwest
    is wearing because most of your judges are from that area.
    	wendy.  

    I'm not sure if Fawn is the true color name, but that's all I could
    think of when I was it.  It was on a Stunning bay, it was a perfect
    combination.  I like the idea of dusty rose and grey.  I definately
    agree with you in saying that this area is about 2 years behind
    the midwest.  Isn't mauve a dusty rose? That's what I had in mind.
    I don't like real bright sharp colors, I want the color to blend
    in with the horse, but make the picture stand out from the rest.
    I'll be showing Pleasure, Equitation and Trail, both English and
    Western where possible.  What do you wear for tops? Ruffle shirts,
    Short Jacket/Blazer, vest or sweater? What is more acceptable/not
    acceptable.  I'll find out more about the show at Oneco.
    
    I know most people around here are still showing with Silver? Do
    you prefer it over the Rawhide?  I'm looking for a mix of both.
    Allies tack shop seems to have a good selection and they're having
    a sale at the end of the month. 
    
    

    	
    	well as far as silver goes... silver has been on the decline
    since about four years ago.  rahide is popular now with some silver.
    two years ago I traded in my gody two skirted show saddle, and to
    a plain, tooled on the swells and cantle, and corners of the fenders.
    single skirted as well, with a rahide horn. Since iI also rein,
    I purchased a 1 1/2 silver stirrups, and swells and cantle are rolled
    in silver, and corner plated with a rahide horn (the small skinny
    type, that you cant rope with)  The out come was very nice. the
    small stirrup added a dainty touch, with just enough silver and
    tooling to make it look elegant.
    		My next saddle will be the simular to mine now only
    that the saddle will be double skirted, yes they are back in style
    again. and the saddle will be a light color as well, the dark show
    saddles seem to be loosing gound. ;^(
    
    as far as the bridle the reining people are goin the rahide and silver,
    sparingly.     hope this helps.
    	just remember silver doesn't influence the judge it just make
    you feel better.
    		one reason i personally cut down on the silver is because
    i have all sterling, not the alcopoco silver or german silver but
    sterling, if you only realized the work.  In fact what i would like
    to do that was really popular about 15 years ago was the 14kt (plated?)
    gold pieces, they are expensive but pretty and nice. The newer version
    is the new gold, basically a gold plate on sterling and also i have
    seen the cheaper version on sterling plate.
    	
    	wendy (who spent $350. just on the headstall, wished she hadnt)
    
    

    I have a basket Weave, I'm not sure how popular it is, probably
    not, but I love it.  It's the most comfortable saddle I've ever
    owned. It's "normal" brown colored, not the real dark or the light
    orange color.  It has a little silver on it, no corner pieces, I
    didn't want  any more than it came with, like you said, it becomes
    goddy after awhile.  I am looking for a nice bridle and breastplate
    to match the saddle, everything I've seen is very dark and won't
    match. I want a combination of Rawhide and Silver, but if they're
    too expensive ($350) I'll just go with the Rawhide.  
    
    Saddle pads? Have any good suggestions? 
    
    

     		
    	As far as saddle pads., navaho blankets (double ) are being
    used.  I absolutely hate the navaho blankets I think there are so
    ugly. but now i have seen some pastels that i caught me eye, but
    I cant justify paying 65.00 for a saddle pad.  anyway, I use just
    a standard coolback white pad.  However around the barn we use the
    woven blankets, simular to the navaho, but are softer on the back,
    we use two of those for each horse. I have found they dont slip,
    like the fuzzy pads.  but I still show in the coolbacks.
    	
    	also the grey felt pads, scalloped edges look nice, I haven't
    used them but they might look damn nice on your grey mare.
    of course the only draw back is you can't wash them. but i use the
    felt cinches, and i just take a damp sponge to them after each horse,
    maybe thats the answer to the felt pad.
    	wendy.

    I can't stand the Navaho blankets either.  I think they would take
    away the whole effect, especially on a dapple gray.  Maybe on a
    solid color horse it may look better.  I usually go with the coolback
    white also.  What is this gray felt pad with scalloped edges you
    spoke of? I haven't seen anything like that, also the pastels? 
    What tackshops in the area sell a good variety of western supplies?

    
    
    	the felt pads only come in gray, sorry no pastels......
    
    now becareful with pastels, I always try and maintain a professional
    image, I might wear light pastels on me but my opinion to to keep
    them off of the horse.  also if I show amateur events i might wear
    light blue etc, but I change to the harsher, conservative colors,
    for open classes, remember you are competing with the pros in open
    classes, and you want stand out, without looking amatuerish.
    
    where is this Allies (sp?) tack shop?  I havent been there yet.
    if they dont have them , get them to order it for you.
    

    I too would never put a pastel pad on my horse, ultimate in 
    tacky, I just have never even seen them before and was wondering
    about them.  I have never seen the gray felt either? I'll check
    at Allies, in North Kingston RI.  They always do a large ad in
    the pedlar.  I'm definately going with the Gray and Dusty Rose (Mauve).
    Now where to find all the trappngs! And which should be what color?
    Should I wear gloves?  
    

    I just thought I'd add a suggestion or two.  I don't show western,
    but I do have some nice show tack and a pair of chaps that the woman
    from the Horseman's Exchange made.  My horse goes both, so sometimes
    I barrel race or pole bend him.
    
    I've seen some saddle pads  that are made of the material similar
    to what you called the coolback pad.  These are rectangular shaped
    and are 2 color combinations.  The pad is all one color (lets's
    say black) and all around the edge it is trimmed in a checkerboard
    pattern of the 2 colors (black and white)  It's hard to explain
    over the tube, but if you give me your mail address, I'll see if
    I can find a picture in a catalog and mail it to you.  Some of the
    color combo's I've seen are blue/green, black/white, red/black,
    green/white (can't remember them all).  
    
    As far as what styles are current, do either of you subscribe to
    the Quarter Horse Journal?  I often pick up a copy of it, and there
    are many color photos of show results, stallions etc,  You might
    skim through there and see what outfits people are wearing. I'd
    think they were current because most of the photos are from the
    Quarter Horse Congress and other shows out west. 
    
    Colors - I think with colors you have to take into consideration
    the color of the horse, the color of the tack, and what colors look
    good on you!  I work part-time in a woman's retail store, and there
    are certain colors that look good on some people, but don't do a
    thing for others.  Some guidelines I tell people are (in general)
    people with dark hair (dk brown to black) and normal to olive skin
    should wear bright or vibrant colors like red, royal blue, bright
    gold or yellow, magenta (and black and white).  Those at the opposite
    end of the scale, pale hair and skin should stick to pastels.  I
    think with horse colors there must be similar guidelines, such as
    black or dk (chocolate brown) horses will look good with colors
    like red, royal blue, bright green, even white.  Pale horses such
    as light chestnuts, duns or buckskins would look good with peach
    pastel, some shades of creams or browns.  
    
    For the gray horse, is she real light almost white, or more towards
    a steel gray.  I think the dusty rose or mauve will look nice, esp
    if you do your chaps and hat and gloves in those tones, then do
    a gray jacket and boots, and maybe a white shirt. You probably will
    want to stay with a white pad if you horse is darker gray.  What color
    hair do you have, and is your skin light, med, olive, dk?
    
    For the Palomino, is your horse very dark (coppery) or light more
    of a cream.  Is the mane definitely white or more cream?  You might
    want to try some nice shades of brown, like chocolate chaps, hat
    and gloves, tan (or cream or beige) jacket, same color pad.  It's
    hard without seeing the color of the horse and tack.
    
    Good luck - Julie 

    
    		hey thanks julie, on the colors.  however I have a taboo
    on brown, even though i have a dark brown pad, but I use that brown
    to accent.  I picked up a taupe ultra seude that a cross between
    a steel gray and brown, Sounds gross but it is really rich looking
    and is beautiful against my palomino.  her color is the copper color,
    with gold and red hilights, without being that dark ruddy looking
    color.  and her white, white mane and tail (I keep at wrapped always,
    and only take it down 5 minutes before classes and then right after
    the class it goes back up again) I can get away with using a white
    pad in open classes, but use the brown pad for equitation cases,
    so it blends in with the saddle so it doesnt distract for my outfit.
    
    	and as for scraggs..... I always wear gloves.. iam sure every
    one will agree with me. especially women.. I think lynn palmer is
    always in gloves. makes good sense... you keep your hands and nails
    nice looking.  who wants to go with someone who has hands like she
    been out roping and brandin all day?
    
    

    I like Navaho's! Or at least I like blankets. Wool blankets do a
    better job of absorbing the horse's sweat. There are blankets that
    are not quite as colorful as navaho's and might be more suitable
    to the understated effect sought in the show ring. I am not the
    one who shows. My daughter who does show is not thrilled with them
    either. Personally, I think those coolbacks are not so cool. The
    horse winds up with sweat dripping down its sides after a few turns
    around the ring  (on a hot day). Don't think that dripping sweat
    does much for showiness.
    
    The felt pads mentioned do a good job. They are mostly grey or brownish
    in color. However, they are mostly for showing as they are hard
    to clean.
    

    Thanks or all the help.  
    
    I don't like the navahoe pads, and don't want a lot of color on
    the pad.  Should I just stick with white?  My mare is dappled gray,
    not white or Steel.  I decided to go with the Grey and Dusty Rose
    Combination, and will get two changes.  Now where to find it all.
    
    Wendy -- I will wear gloves!
    ..... I hate my stirrups on my saddle, and want to change, do you
    have any suggestions on what type or what's out there?  I want a
    thin stirrup like cutting, I haven't decided if I like oxbows or
    not.  What is exceptable in pleasure and equitation???
    Thanks
    

    I think if you do the dusty rose chaps, you could even find a gray
    pad to match the horse or your jacket and use that as an option
    to the white.  I also think navy blue will look nice (chaps, gloves
    and hat) for the fall or winter shows.  If you like the rose shades,
    I would use the lighter, dusty rose in the spring and summer, then
    switch to a burgundy or wine tone for the fall and winter.
    
    You might see if the Equestrian Shop in N.Andover has the stuff
    you need (617-686-7722)
    
    As for the Palomino colors, I think you can use a combo of the taupe
    color you mentioned with white.  If the taupe shade is fairly dark,
    and the horse's mane/tail is definitely white then you could do
    the taupe for chaps, hat and gloves, and do a white shirt or jacket
    and saddlepad, and even white pants under your chaps.  For the fall
    or winter, white might not be a good idea since it is very much
    a summer color. (unless that doesn't matter to judges)  You might try
    a shade of gray either lighter or darker than the taupe.  I would
    stay away from off white or cream shades if the horse has white mane
    and tail, but if the horse had cream mane & tail, I'd use cream
    accents instead of white. (White and cream do not go well together at
    all). I also think that your black chaps,hat,gloves would look good
    for the fall or winter with a white saddle pad and white shirt.
    Your horse might also look good with navy blue instead of the black
    which can be harsh sometimes.

    I probably won't be showing until May of '87 and won't go past
    November, for that year.  I'll do two outfits with Grey and Dusty
    Rose, each with a predominant color.  I was interested in a black
    outfit also, but didn't know what to put it with?  You have to be
    very careful when using black, it's such a harsh color, I don't
    want to use it with another harsh color, but yet it doesn't go with
    pastels either. Gray with it, would be too dull I think.  I am not
    crazy about black and white together, but maybe if you added a hint
    of another color in their also, it might soften the dramatic lines.
    Any hints here?  I'll only use a white or grey pad.  I looked at
    the two tones, I think they're nice looking, but too busy for the
    ring. The white would mix in with my gray I think, and not stand
    out as much if it were a darker color or solid.
    
    Chaps I can find pretty easily, but where are there decent hats
    in nice colors that don't cost over $75?  What would be appropriate
    to use on them, ie. feather bands? 
    
    Thanks!
    

    You are right about black being harsh.  If your horse tends toward
    the darker gray side, you could get away with it, but gray horses
    tend to lighten over the years and black will really stand out on
    a light gray horse.  If you want the horse to stand out over the
    rider, go softer colors, however use the black if you want to call
    attention to the rider.
    
    With the gray horse, I would use black chaps, hat & gloves and white
    saddle pad, & shirt.  To accent, you could do a scarf around your
    neck in a red or royal blue or green, and try to match the band
    or your hat with that color.  You might try to go to some shows
    and see what looks good & bad.  Remember that pastels will 'fade'
    or blend whereas 'loud' or strong colors will stick out and call
    attention to wherever it is.

    	ok maybe what we should be doing next for sherry is asking her
    what color boots she has, chaps if any? and hat etc.  use you english
    pants when you can. they will be under your chaps there will accomodate
    a western belt and they are lighter in weight.
    in the mean time here is some ideas for a grey horse with little
    or no white.  
    
    for western pleasure. (remember iam competing against pros here!)
    and it is judged on the horse only not my riding.
    
    black chaps/pants/gloves
    white pad/hat
    bright red blouse with bow tie
    or 
    teal (brightly colored)
    or 
    light pink blouse with white collar/cuffs with a balck tie
    or
    blue/white/black tiny stripes no more than 1/8"wide each, no too
    wide so it not buzy/but wide enough not to get lost. this shirt
    will have a white collar. add your black tie!
    or
    burgandy
    or dusty rose.
    				note**** for the plain colors i would
    				wear the satin/shiny material
    
    

    I noticed that you said western pleasure is judged only on the
    horse, not the rider.  If this is the case, you would want the
    judge to notice the horse first; the rider second.  If your
    horse is a good pleasure horse, and you want the judge's eye to
    stay on the horse, I would try to use colors of my clothes that
    would complement the horse, but remain in the background.  I would
    use my tack to call attention to the horse.  For example, with the
    gray horse, use the dusty rose/gray shades to make a pretty picture
    but not stand out over the horse, and use silver accents on my tack
    or use dark oiled leather (against a light gray coat) or light colored
    tack (against a dark gray coat) to bring the judges eye to the horse.
    Maybe using a colored saddle pad might call attention to the center
    of the horse, etc.  
    
    The same goes for the palomino, use the taupe/white combo to remain
    in the background and strong or dark colored tack to bring out the
    horse.  I suppose you could use this philosophy for equitation classes
    if your position is not tops and you'd rather have the judge's eye
    wander toward the horse.

    	
    
    		ok you are right...... however.. i look at it this way....
    i know they say if your horse is a good mover draw attention to
    him... and if he has some things wrong, or whatever, to draw attention
    to you... right... ???? well i look at this way if i'm in a class
    now wer not talking 10- 25 people here we are talking 50-150 horses,
    You are going to want to catch the judges eye, then that will cause
    him to look at your horse closer, if your out looks professional..
    now if he cuts the classes 4 times, how is he going to remember
    if you blend in with everyone?  
    		NOW WHERE WAS THAT RED HORSE?? THERES MAYBE TEN RED
    SORRELS IN THAT CLASS.  oh yes the soreel horse with the woman in
    red. ;^)   in my case im riding with 50 palominos, maybe he likes
    the darker palominos, ok..... then what if he hates pink... or what
    if he likes my horse but hates red... he'll remember me...  just
    remember also, how old is the judge? is he trendy? is she from
    california?  .... so much goes into it that for pleasure, i go make
    a bold impression, and make them look at me as long as i dress
    conservativeand add some color and flair.  and hope like he*l my
    horse has a good go-round, and make the cuts.
    		
    				now in equitation thats a whole different
    story.
    		wendy
    

    All I can say is I'm glad we don't have to make such decisions for
    dressage or eventing!  Black jacket, hat, boots, white shirt, gloves
    and saddle pad - real simple!
    
    I guess when you are in a class that big you do have to do something
    to get noticed, but how big are the rings if there are that many
    people??  If what you do keeps you in the finals, then keep on
    doin' it, but if you are in a small class, and can be more peticular
    about your outfit, then the suggestions we made before should help.
    
    Good luck to all!

     RE .27  150  entries in one class? heavens... sorry about that, anyway what
    happens is they pull 25-40 riders in judge the class. then 25 more
    etc.... then take the top 6 or eight riders in each group pull them
    back into the area and place them that way. 
                                               
    	also does anyone know of anyone in the eastern states that will
    caulk a hat to whatever color you need. without it costing an arm
    and a leg?
    
    		also what are the midwest people using for styles in
    hats, (crown and brim shapes?)
    	
    	is there anyone back east who can shape a mean hat???
    

    Re .28
    
    There is a Stetson Factory Outlet in Danbury, Connecticut.  Sorry
    I cannot provide you with a phone number, the phone company is on
    strike and I don't have access to a Danbury phone book.  I will
    post the number when I can find someone living in that area to look
    it up, or the phone company resolves the strike...whichever comes
    first.
    
    Ann

    OK people, I have to start over again. I'm showing a bay gelding,
    Pleasure and Equitation this year. My mare will be going youth this
    year instead.  
    
    He is a dark red bay, with black points. Absolutely no White.
    I had light gray chaps made, and will have gray hat, boots, gloves,
    but what do I put on top????  I want to stand out as he is you're
    average bay, if he had white (chrome) I wouldn't worry so much,
    but like Wendy stated, with 50 some odd horses, you have to get
    noticed in the beginning.  I know alot of colors will go with the
    gray, but I need a striking combination.
    
    ALSO, for halter I chose, (don't laugh)
    
    I really liked Wendy's assertiveness in wearing a skirt, so hear
    goes.
    
    A grey ruffle skirt, mid length.
    Gray, boots, hat, gloves,
    Belt with Silver.
    Ruffle shirt with thin ribbon tie, (color not picked yet
    V or boat neck sweater (color not picked)
    
    Thoughts, Hints, Suggestions?
    COLORS?
    CHANGES?
    
    (I have med to dk brown tack with just a touch of silver, and a
     white pad with leather corner plates with silver)
    
    -Marianne-
    

    
    		thanks marianne i'll get a trend going on skirts yet
    [haha]  anyway...........	so *like* why are we wearing gray on
    a BAY???? HHHHMMMMM???? 
    		
    	tell you what i'll help with colors etc. if you help sell my
    horse?  How bout that?;^)  so then i can show with you.
    		wendy
    

    I LOVE GREY. SORRY.  Have any other colors for a Bay, I hate any
    form of brown, black is too dark.  The gray is a very light pearl
    color, please tell me it will look good?????? (can you tell I have
    no confidence)
    
    I just spoke to the Stetson Outlet in Danbury, they don't do any
    mail orders, and they don't do anything out of the ordinary, meaning
    what they have in stock is all they have. They only have your basic
    grey, brown and blue.  Oh well, anyone know where I can get a nice
    hat or two?
    
    Need input on more colors!!!!!!!
    
    Thanks
    

    
    		ok it looks great!!
    
    		
    
    
    
    			hows that!  Did I do Good?????
    		huh? did I??? huh????
    
    

    
    		ok marianne, i guess i've had my fun joking, now
    lets get down to business.
    
    		the skirt will look good! ok?  now forget the sweater.
    ok? sweaters look nice over a shirt and with chaps, but not in halter,
    with your skirt.  tell you what...... go out and look for a satiny,
    solid blouse, with a big bow tie.  what color will look good with your bay?
    i would say a teal grean.  hows that? i feel a little out of practice;
    gray gloves might or might not look good. try them if not , well
    put it this way i always use black boots and black gloves. except
    when i wear those pinkish color chaps.
    anyway, halter???? do you have one yet?  doesnt matter what color,
    i would stay with the dark brown, maybe the latigo color.
    
    
    	p.s.  did you say you had silver on your horse blanket?
    can you take it off?  i thought of that long time ago, but
    when silver went conservative i scratched the idea.
    
    	thats what i would do.
    				wendy.\
    

    
    I have a dark brown halter, with silver and gold.
    I will look for a couple different blouses then, and scratch the
    sweater for halter.
    
    I do have silver initials on my saddle pad.  They are removable
    if I get silver stage fright.
    
    Thanks for all the help!
    
    -M-
    

    
    
    		oh letters well thats different i thought they were
    corner plates!  kept them on then, by all means.
    when you go out shopping, be simple. you dont want too many outfits.
    in fact i'm going with 3 pairs of chaps instead of five.  have
    everything mix and match. use some print but not loud or too buzy.
    for halter use the sloid blouse, then at the last minute if you
    chicken out on the skirt just jump into your pants.
    	I'm warning you it takes alot of guts to get out there in a
    skirt. and even the pros will frown on it, proably because it
    a change than what they are used to.
    	

    Mare - since you haven't been showing halter before you might want to
    to avoid stage fright the first few times out and instead wear pants
    until you are comfortable enough to become a trend-setter. I think that
    if you wear pants for a few classes, it will leave you with one
    less thing on your mind! Another thing, if yo are planning on doing
    early showing (April, May, etc) remember that those 2 months are
    notorious for getting lots of rain and therefore lots of mud!
    
    Good luck!
    
    Linda
    

    
    Thanks for the notes. I think it would be fun, to see the
    expressions on all those faces of the "Oldtimers" who do it
    the "right way". I'm not a trendsetter per say, but I'm also
    not one to just flow with the crowd to please.  I'll definately
    go with both suggestions and bring pants, (Just in case).
    What type of pants are appropriate?  Please don't say "POLYESTER
    or NYLON!
    
    Linda, I know you've shown at Northampton and Deerfield, are these
    indoor or outdoor shows?
    
    Thanks
    Mare
    

    Northampton has both but usually indoor (and can be very raw!).
    Deerfield is outdoor and is a nice fairground.
    

    JUST THOUGHT I WOULD PUT MY 2 CENTS WORTH IN ON THE STYLES
    FOR WESTERN THIS YEAR.
    THEY ARE GETTING AWAY FROM THE BRIGHT COLORS....
    PRESSED JEANS ARE ACCEPTABLE IN SHOWMANSHIP WITH A NICE
    TAYLORED BLOUSE, BELT AND HAT
    NO REAL NEED FOR A FELT HAT THIS YEAR - STRAWS ARE MORE THAN
    ACCEPTABLE AS LONG AS IT IS AFTER APRIL AND BEFORE SEPTEMBER.
    BOYS STYLES ARE REALLY CHANGING - IF YOU HAVE A BOY DRESS HIM
    LIKE ONE - NO DJ PANTS AND NEVER PUT A BOY IN SMOOTH LEATHER 
    CHAPS ALLWAYS SUEDE.
    GLOVES:  BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR GLOVES IF YOUR HANDS AREN'T THE
             BEST IT DRAWS ATTENTION TO THE HANDS IF THE GLOVES ARE
             BRIGHT.... SAME WITH THE BOOTS IF YOUR LEGS ARE NOISY..
             KEEP THEM DARK AND NEVER USE SILVER STIRRUPS IF YOU HAVE
             LOOSE LEGS.
    
    AT THE JUDGES CLINIC IN INDIANAPOLIS A FEW WEEKS AGO THEY ARE SAYING
    THAT MOST ANYTHING GOES FOR BLOUSES - EVEN TURTLENECK SWEATERS AS
    LONG AS THEY ARE NEAT & WELL FITTING.
    
    A REALLY PRETTY COLOR WITH YOUR BAY MAY BE THE NEW DEEP ROYAL BLUE!!
    IT IS REALLY A GORGEOUS COLOR !!!
    
    I HAVE A BAY & A LITTLE BOY WHO RIDES HER - I DRESSED HIM WITH BLACK
    CHAPS (SILVER ROPING DOWN THE LEG), BLACK BELT, BLACK PANTS, A WHITE
    SHIRT, A BLACK PINSTRIPPED VEST WITH A GREY SATIN BACK, BLACK GLOVES,
    BLACK STRAW HAT AND GREY BOOTS WITH A BRIGHT WHITE SADDLE PAD....
    IT WAS REALLY STRIKING !!!!!!!!!!  
    
    ANOTHER COMBINATION I SAW THAT WAS REALLY SHARP WAS ALL BLACK WITH
    A BRIGHT COLORED VEST & TIE.
    
    HOPE THIS HELPS, LINDA
    
    
    

    
    		RE .40
    
    		CAN YOU TELL US WHAT ELSE THEY HAD TO SAY??
    
    	
    wen.
    

    Thanks for the suggestions Linda.  Do you think black chaps would
    be too dark for a grey, she's a med. dappled gray.  Any other 
    color combinations for a bay or gray would be greatly appreciated.
    
    P.S. Mass Quarter Horse Assoc. is sponsoring a two day clinic with
    Gigi Skelly on April 25/26 at Whit Parkers in Holden, MA.  
    Sessions are 2 hours long, with no more than 8 riders per session. 
    
    If anyone is interested in attending, send mail to Parsec::Scraggs
    Session Fee is $50.00
    
    

    
    		mare,  who type of clinic is it and what are they going
    over.
    		thanks wen.
    
    		p.s. you still want my mare?
    I told you she was nice, i bet you didnt believe me haha
    oh yea,  I might have a 4 year old to show so i have [have]
    to sell cilly [cue tee mc cue]
    
    
    

    re: .42
    How about a burgandy or wine color(not to dark). Try some horse
    publications with lots of pictures to get some color combinations
    or ideas which colors would suit your needs. There are a lot of
    greys or med. greys out there. Our Arab is a dappled grey(more bay
    than grey), we decided on a soft rose pink color chaps, pink type
    blouse, light grey hat, gloves & boots. It blends pretty well together
    & not to loud. Pictures show better than the mind in what combinations
    of color to what clothes you want.
    You will find what you want.
    
                                                            Steve
    
    
    
    
    

    I would really like a soft burgundy, rose color for my grey,
    but I can't find anyone to make them? The woman who makes my
    chaps only has a dark burgundy, cranberry color, it's too
    dark.  If anyone knows where I can get some made, I'd appreciate
    any leads.
    
    I'm going with light grey chaps, and black also, but still need
    a second change for the grey, blacks probably a bit to dark?
    
    Steve, the outfit you described for your grey, is just what I was
    looking for.  It must look really nice on your horse!
    
    Thanks
    Marianne
    

    
    I know a place where you can order such an outfit--Tanglewood Saddlery
    in Des Moines, Iowa.  I don't have a phone number.
    
    They have this color on display--it looks sensational!  It almost
    makes me want to find a western horse to show (but I just don't
    have one right now).
    
    mary jo

    re: .45
     Marianne, the outfit is nice. Do you work here at cxo plants or
    back east? Cause i could find out where we got the chaps from &
    let you know. There should be someone who has a catalog for you
    to find the right color you want. Send a mail message if you like.
    
                                                      Steve
    
    
    
    

    
    Thanks, but I work in Tewksbury, Massachusetts. Just a tad far!
    If they did mail order, that might come in handy however?
    
    -Mare-
    

    HI !! THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION ON THE CLINIC - WE MIGHT TRY TO
    MAKE IT - WILL THEY ALLOW US APPY PEOPLE ????  MY APPY IS A CPO
    (SOLID) - SHE IS A GRANDDAUGHTER OF JET DECK (OUT OF WHIT PARKER'S
    OLD STALLION RED ROAN TONY!!) I GUESS THAT QUALIFIES US!!
    
    I WOULD BE CAREFUL OF BURGANDY WITH A BAY - ROSE IS NICE BUT IF
    THE BAY IS A DULL BAY YOU WILL JUST BLEND INTO THE WOODWORK !!
    ROSE MUST BE GORGEOUS ON YOUR GREY !!!  
    
    WE ALL GO TO ALLIE'S TACK SHOP IN KINGSTON, R.I. FOR OUR OUTFITS!
    THEY ARE REALLY SUPER - THEY TAKE THE TIME THEIR PRICES ARE REALLY
    GOOD & THEY STAND BY THEIR GOODS 100%.....
    
    I WOULD BE REALLY CAREFUL ABOUT WEARING A SKIRT IN A HALTER CLASS!!
    IT MAY BE AGAINST THE RULES - WHICH WOULD BE AUTOMATIC ELIMINATION
    FOR YOU -- IT WOULD BE A SHAME.  
    
    THE CONN. APPY ASSOCIATION IS HOLDING A CLINIC WITH DAVE MOORE (JUST
    AFTER HE FINISHES A 2 WEEK CLINIC AT HIS PLACE WITH TERRY THOMPSON)
    AT WILSON FARM ON MARCH 22ND ALSO......THAT SHOULD BE REALLY
    INFORMATIVE.
    
    WELL, HAVA NICE DAY & ENJOY PICKING OUT YOUR NEW OUTFIT - THAT IS
    ALWAYS ALOT OF FUN!!!!!!!!!  OH, ONE MORE THING - I ALWAYS TAKE
    A PICTURE OF MY HORSE WITH ME TO THE TACK SHOP TO HOLD AGAINST THE
    COLORS I AM THINKING OF GETTING - ITS AMAZING WHAT YOU THOUGHT WOULD
    LOOK GREAT LOOKS TERRIBLE TOGETHER..
    
    LINDA
    
    

    Hi Linda,  Thanks for all the info. I decided not to go with a
    skirt in the beginning as I was told in a halter class you really
    want to stay away from calling attention to yourself, and put
    the attention on the horse (sounds right to me, if I was to go
    off in a skirt, not only would the judge be looking, but the whole
    arena!)  
    
    I won't be using any form of burgundy on the bay, just on the grey.
    I'm using black and grey (separate), on the bay.
    I will try to get down to Allies and see what they have.  
    
    Linda, do you know where (in the near future - summer?) I could
    find a nice App colt? Any reputable breeding farms? I would like
    either an App or a Quarter.
    
    As for the clinic, I'll find out more info for you and post it here.
                               
    -M-
    

    RE: .48
    
    It was worth a try anyway. Hope you can find something that you
    like.
    
                                                    Steve
    
    
    

    Marianne - another thing to check on with wearing a skirt. Check
    your AQHA rule book to be sure that pants (or something similar)
    aren't required! It would be too bad if you went and set up an outfit
    for a skirt only to later lose out because it wasn't allowed...
    I can't remember the wording that the rule books use but just be
    sure that skirts are allowed appointments.
    
    Linda
    

    
    I just found a store in Lynn that sells western hats and will
    reshape to your needs:
    
    Henry the Hatter
    530 Washington Street
    617-592-9621
    
    They do not change colors.
    
    Also,                              
    
    Stetson Factory in Danbury, CT
    203-743-3893
    Is under new management and will consider doing mail order
    if you know exactly what you want. They do not have a catalog.
    They don't reshape or change color.
                                  

    
    
    Well ... I've just re-read through this whole note on western outfits
    and colors and combos... but narry is there a mention what everyone
    is wearing on their chestnut western pleasure horses (am **I** the
    only one here w/a chestnut?)  I bet not, and would love to hear
    from anyone out there with great ideas..............  my mare is
    a medium dark (not liver) w/a narrow strip and matched hind socks.
    My saddle/bridle and breastplate are meduim dark brown w/minimal
    silver - small hearts.

    

    In years past I have mixed and matched (depending on the season)
    some very basic outfits - black chaps/saddle pad/gloves with burgandy
    sweater/gloves/hat and white or narrow pinstriped shirt w/a dark
    tie.  The other pair of chaps I have are (were) dusty rose (yes
    they do fade over the years and w/one professional cleaning......)
    and I have worn combinations of wine/burgandy/navy with this. My
    other alternative has been black and white - or all pastels (with
    the rose chaps)... The other hat I have is off white/straw...
    
    So - I'm real open to ideas - and don't have tons of money to spend
    but need some alternatives.  I would seriously consider selling
    the rose chaps and replace them w/a medium grey or maybe brown pair
    (anyone interested in a pair of short fringed, light rose chaps
    with two small conchos??)  Or maybe there is someone out there who
    knows of a place where I could get them dyed a darker color?????!
    
    Any thoughts/ideas/help will be appreciated - thanks!
    
    	holly_whos_headed_to_Vt_morgan_in_two_weeks!

    holly
    
    	you might want to try and find a teal color chaps.
    they would proably have to be custom made.
    or if you are good at sewing pick up some ultra suede.
    
    other than that i didnt have any ohter ideas.
    		wendy.
    

    
    
    I have been to several AQHA shows lately and what I have seen is
    a trend to the primary colors**Black, Navy, light and medium Grey,
    Brick and Rust.  The light grey looks great on a dark sorrel or
    chestnut horse.  Patterned sweaters are worn that either match or
    contrast with the chap color.  The pattern has the chap color woven
    in if the main color is a contrast.  Grey chaps with a black sweater
    with a grey/white pattern, white high collar shirt and grey or black
    hat.  Saddles can be either light or dark but the saddle pad matches
    the outfit of the rider.  Another trend is that fitted jackets are
    being worn instead of sweaters.  They are made of ultra-suede to
    match the chaps exactly and have detailing that picks up the accent
    color of the hat.  There was a two issue feature in perfomance horseman
    last fall/winter by Patty Boxell on showmanship that covers in detail
    what is current in the show ring.  What she says about showmanship
    is also being seen in the performance classes.  I have copies of
    this that I can send if anyone is interested.  Another place to
    look is in the AQHA Journal.  They have alot of ads to promote show
    winners taken in the winners circle.  
    
    Hope this helps.
    
     Pat

    According to the tack shop that I go to, just about every breed
    circuit does something a little different as far as color goes.
    For example, .56 said the QH people are into black, navy, grey,
    etc.  On the app circuit (where I travel), the popular colors this
    year are teal, med. blue, rasberry....more vibrant colors.  One of my 
    students has a bright chestnut and we dressed her in teal...it really looks
    gorgeous and is appropriate for youth or amatuers.  The pros, however,
    stick to more conservative colors.  Another thing that is popular
    and really stands out are plaid shirts in pastels or vibrant colors
    depending on what blends with your chaps.  You may want to check
    and see what people on the morgan circuit are wearing before you
    go off and spend $'s on a new outfit.  I hate to get too trendy
    but I think its important to have the right look.   If you get
    a pair of neutral chaps, like light grey, you can get a couple of
    different shirts for some variety.
    
    Jeannie                                              

    
    
    Thanks for all the thoughts and ideas...  I've decided for the sake
    of finances to go with what we have for this first show and keep
    our eyes open and make a decision after that..  Since I tend to
    lean on the conservative side, I'm sure we'll be ok for the first
    show - and better able to make a decision that way.  Thanks! - holly

    I was at the Colorado Classic this weekend and made it a point of
    noticing what western riders were wearing.
    
    I saw a girl riding a real clear PEACH equitation suit on a chestnut
    quarter horse.  It was LOVELY.  
    
    Lots of quarter horses were being ridden with pastel chaps and shirts
    (Apps too).  Saw lots of teal. Saw lots of neutral colored chaps with
    bright pastel shirts (in satin or other shiney materials). 

    
    
    I was looking through some horse magazines over the weekend and
    found an ad for patterns for riding clothes.  The advertised as
    having patterns for Hunt Seat, Saddle seat and western.  The address
    is:  
    
    
    				Jean Hardy Patterns
    				2151 La Cuesta Drive
    				Santa Anna, California
    				92705
    
    
    The cost is $1.00 for the catalog. The Western clothes are pretty
    dated and feature yokes and fringe.  The English clothes look up
    to date.  These patterns come in sizes from 6-18.  Some are larger.
    
    
    Pat