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The Legal Equestrian

July 6, 2017

17 things you should be checking out this summer

By Jordan Nassif.

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milkMILK Face Spray: I was a bit skeptical of this product at first. I went into Sephora looking for an affordable alternative to the Dior primer spray I had been using for a while. There was a representative there at the store who just happened to hear and offered up the $38 Blur Spray. The selling point of their products to buyers is their cruelty-free, pro LGBTQ[IA+] makeup (i.e., If you buy their Glitter Stick online, they will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Transgender Youth Community Center). I was pleased with the product after one use. Not only does it function as a primer, but it also doubles as a setting spray which, like a BB cream, nourishes your skin as it primes.

Le Fash Sunshirts: I recently ordered a Paulo Alto shirt in black and white from Le Fash because of its similarity to the Equiline Catherine shirt without the $198 price tag. The Paulo Alto, while certainly still expensive, is cute and a fabulous take on the classic sunshirt with mesh sleeves (Editor’s Note: The mesh is super durable, so it doesn’t catch on sharp things like other sunshirt mesh.). While it doesn’t boast the “stable to street” versatility that their breeches do, it’s still a nice shirt.

denimDenim accessories: Although denim shirts and chambray have been making appearances on the runway since 2012, I’ve only begun embracing the trend in the last year. Aquazzura’s denim and crystal Christy flats made their debut in my closet about six months ago, and even with their statement piece status, make regular appearances in my outfits. Valentino, Stella McCartney and other big names have also embraced denim accessories, reinventing the denim bag that Louis Vuitton debuted in the 90s. In equestrian fashion, denim breeches have been around for about 8 years, but only recently have brands been rolling out fresh-takes on the dated denim breech. I decided to give Le Fash’s Uptown/Downtown City Breeches a try (they are based off of denim, as is their Williamsburg City Breech – their newest denim print piece) and was pleased with the breeches’ interchangeableness from street to stable. However,

Christy flats.

Christy flats.

the material is a little thin and is not real denim. If you are looking to add a pair of denim breeches to your wardrobe, I suggest looking at Horze breeches. I purchased a pair for around $70 and get compliments on them all the time. And yes, you can wear them outside of the barn.

Longchamp’s S/S 2017 Ready-to-Wear: I only recently discovered that Longchamp sells more than expensive plastic bags, and I waited for weeks for their Spring/Summer 2017 line to go on sale. Longchamp’s clothes and accessories this season are easily recognizable with their bright pink and blue stripes and creamy florals. I ordered these flats to match a salmon-colored wool Gucci blazer.

Lana del Rey: Okay, I’ve been following Lana since her Lizzie Grant days, but to be fair her new music this summer has revived her sad strums of summertime blues out of my car’s speakers. Her new song, Summer Bummer feat. A$AP Rocky, set to be released on June 29th before her new album’s debut in July, has me checking YouTube every day for leaks. Ever since Lana worked with Rocky on her song Ridin’, and the rapper appeared in her National Anthem music video, I have been obsessed with the pairing. Unlike Lana’s previous albums, however, the music this summer is set to be more upbeat with her title track Lust for Life feat. The Weeknd.

solowSolow Sport clothes: I don’t want this obsession to be misleading— I hate everything about exercise, except the clothes. I love lounging in cute exercise clothes, whether at school or at home. I love the idea of a messy ponytail, sporty Alexander Wang bag and all-white exercise ensemble. Solow combines the comfort of exercise clothes with street style. They are priced around the same as Lulu Lemon but with an edgier look and darker colors. Like most boutique brands, they run about a full size small, so definitely size up. You can also check eBay for discounts and deals. Add a leather moto jacket and a nice pair of tennis shoes to your exercise outfit, and you’ve got an outfit worthy for dinner.

equifitEquiFit leather half pad: I’ve been using EquiFit products for years (girth, boots, pads, etc.), and I’ve owned two or three of their back pads over the course of that time. But every summer I remember how much I love my low-maintenance, clean-looking, extremely helpful half pad. It cleans up with just water, stays clean, protects my horses’ backs and doesn’t look sloppy like some other brands. It’s barely noticeable underneath a saddle.

Blaze Pizza: My mom got a coupon for this pizza place in the mail which promoted $8 pizzas with whatever toppings you can imagine. Each pizza is handmade in front of you according to your specifications (goat cheese,  garlic cloves, extra pepperoni and parmesan is my favorite combination), baked for a couple of minutes and served to you. It really is a good deal, and the pizza itself is actually delicious. As it turns out, Blaze Pizza is located all over the country. I was skeptical, but now I know where to go whenever I want a cheap, but good, full meal.

grapefruitFruity drinks: I feel like I don’t even have to explain this one. I freakin’ love fruity cocktails in the summertime. My favorite flavor this summer is grapefruit. A vodka grapefruit soda goes perfectly with breakfast, lunch or dinner. (Editor’s Note: Grapefruit does have an adverse reaction with some medications. Make sure to check the interactions with any medications you are on before indulging in grapefruit-based drinks or talk to your doctor.)

blzersColorful Summer Blazers: Black and grey blazers are so tired. Give your funeral ready-to-wear a break this summer and invest in a few colorful additions. I’ve always believed that if you’re going to invest in a certain part of your work wardrobe it should be in blazers. Add a nautical-pattered blazer with white and blue, like this one from Equipment, or a brightly colored one like my favorite salmon-colored blazer from Gucci. For less expensive options, check out LOFT or J. Crew Factory, which frequently hold major sales events. ‘Wow’ your coworkers with a floral embroidered pink blazer, white silk twill pants and a white button down. Tie it all together with a belt with a small crystal accent and peach-colored shoes. It’s so easy to get creative this summer with just a couple of bright blazers.

Pokemon Go: Yes, to answer your question, I “still play that.” Nothing, not even my own health, has motivated me to get up and go outside like the Pokemon Go app has. And with Niantic’s release of 80 new pocket monsters and Gym raids, there are more reasons than ever to get walking. I have actually stayed in shape because of this little game. And my dog loves going Pokemon-ing with me, too.

stellaStella McCartney: This could possibly be my favorite brand of all time. Not only is the Stella McCartney brand such a fabulous and youthful 100 percent vegan high-fashion brand, but she also does a collaboration line with Adidas that makes runway-worthy exercise clothes. Stella’s signature chain-lined vegan bags are trendy yet quickly becoming a classic in the same way that Valentino’s Rockstud and Chloe’s Drew purse lines are becoming classics. Stella also brought us the platform oxford tennis shoes this year.

bedSleeping: Here is your daily reminder to close your laptop and go take a nap. We often do not get enough sleep during the summertime as fun events and longer daylight keep our minds stimulated way past 9 p.m. If you’re looking to treat yourself to something this summer or want an extra ‘oomph’ for the coming school year consider investing in a new mattress pad or Tempurpedic pillow. After all, if you can’t relax in your own bed then you’re likely to stay tightly wound. I love my white linens and the clean lines in my bedroom which keep the atmosphere crisp and refreshing. Loud colors and patterns in your safe space can sometimes affect your breathing pattern or keep you from relaxing. Consider cleaning up the clutter so you can be prepared for the busier fall and winter seasons.

graphictBrooklyn Edgy with Uptown Chic: RHOBH’s Erica Girardi brought us the chunky Chanel necklaces and Moschino shirt dresses with the classic glam of a pair of Christian Louboutin So Kate pumps this year. My style inspiration this summer is graphic tees and pumps, baggy Wildfox sweaters and classic heels. I love the classy/trashy wardrobe mash-up. First, your outfits double when you mix mediums, and besides that, most of this trashy-chic looks can crossover from daytime to nighttime. Pull a graphic tee from your closet, add a pair of leather pants or black or dark wash jeans and finish the outfit off with a clutch and pair of classic black pumps for an updated chic look.

Bai Water: I have two packs of these (28 ounces each/packs of 12) auto-shipped by Amazon every two weeks. Not only is the autoship convenient, but it holds me to a sort of water schedule to make sure I drink plenty of fluids each day. Bai’s “anti-water” is antioxidant-infused electrolyte water that tastes better than any type of bottled water I’ve ever tried. I keep them on me at the barn, at work, in my bedroom and in the car so that I always stay hydrated.

revolveREVOLVE: It’s no secret that this is my favorite online store. Actually, I do most of my shopping online. Revolve is perhaps the greatest online boutique for someone who likes anything from boho chic to edgy downtown style with brands like For Love and Lemons, Giuseppe Zanotti, WILDFOX, Stuart Weitzman, Fenty by Puma and more. Use the code CANDY to get 10% off of your order, plus 2 day shipping is always free. 

Stealing mints at work and bringing them to the barn: I’m not advocating employee theft, but my horses just really like those soft little mints.

 

All photos courtesy of + property of Jordan Nassif. Do not use without permission.

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Fashion, Guest Posts, Health, Horses, Lifestyle, Product Review, ROOTDs

April 20, 2017

Product Review: B Vertigo Breeches

First day wearing the breeches paired with the Horze short-sleeve show shirt.

First day wearing the breeches paired with the Horze Blaire Short-Sleeve Show shirt.

I’ve always wanted to try a pair of B Vertigo Breeches, but never got the chance – until now.

Horse kindly sent Scope Network members an awesome short sleeve show shirt (It is the Blaire Women’s Show Shirt, and it is super comfy, suitable for shows, flattering, and COOL, which is great for hot summer show days!) [retails for $34.95] as well as a pair of breeches ($179.95).

Horze is a brand I have never tried, so I wasn’t sure what to expect in terms of quality, fit, fashion, look, etc. I was very, very surprised and pleased. Their breeches have become part of my staple in my breech collection – and I have A LOT of breeches!

When mine came in, I was excited to see they were tan. I need more tan breeches, and if they were good quality, they were coming to shows with me. I tried them on, and I immediately felt the benefits. They were stretchy, but not too stretchy which means if you are a size 26R in some other breeches, a size 24R in B Vertigos may fit you. They were not super long on me. They were flattering and fit me super well. In fact, they were so comfy that I kept them on for a few hours after getting them even though I had zero plans to go riding.

Another of the first day they arrived.

Another of the first day they arrived. B Vertigo Breeches + Blaire Short-Sleeve Show Shirt.

I decided to really put these breeches to the test. My first test was wearing them out on a day I would be riding both Luther and Monte (and whoever else my trainer gave me to ride). Why not throw them right into an intense environment? We are in shedding, mud, and dust/dirt season here in the northeast, so this was PERFECT. I believe it rained that day, too. Plus, one minute it’s so hot you’re sweating; the next it’s windy/chilly, and you’re cold. The breeches held up perfectly. There were zero stains, even during the times I forgot and rubbed my hands on them. They also did not stretch out to where I needed to wash them to make them fit me properly again. I got tons of compliments on them from other riders at my barn and my trainer. I wore them 3, yes 3, days in a row to really test them out… and seriously, no problems whatsoever. No saddle stains; no sweat stains; NOTHING.

3 days after consistent riding, sweating, grooming, mud swimming, rainy weather, shedding, dust, etc.

3 days after consistent riding, sweating, grooming, mud swimming, rainy weather, shedding, dust, etc.

I didn’t wash them when I got home, and I let them sit for a little bit. Two days later, I took them out again for a ride. Stretching? No. Smelly from sitting and not being washed? No. Dirty? No. They looked just like they had when they arrived at my house. I took them for a lesson. This particular day the horses were especially muddy and dirt-covered as it had rained the entire week before AND they were shedding massively. Hair doesn’t cling to them. Dirt doesn’t touch them. Mud doesn’t even phase them.

5 days of no washing. No smelling. No stains, No stretching. They fit and looked like the first day I put them on. I just so happen to be wearing the same socks I was in the same photo - I wash my socks, I swear.

5 days of no washing. No smelling. No stains, No stretching. They fit and looked like the first day I put them on. I just so happen to be wearing the same socks I was in the same photo – I wash my socks, I swear.

I LOVE these breeches, and I desperately need another pair. I’ve only found one other pair of breeches that stands up to being worn 3 days in a row, ridden in 3 days in a row, and exposed to dirty/mud/sweat/hair 3 days in a row and shows NO signs. These breeches are a must have for your collection, especially if you are looking for a tan pair to show in that won’t stain easily, that won’t stretch, that is flattering and will fit you well, and is just the overall package. In fact, I just bought myself a new pair of B Vertigos; the turquoise Olivia Luxury Women’s Knee Patch pair with Swarovski crystal accents ($179.95).

 

 

 

 

Treat yo’self… right?

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Equestrian Fashion, Horses, Product Review, ROOTDs

November 11, 2016

Product Review: Kensington Protective Products Roustabout All Purpose Saddle Carry Bag

unnamed-19I have always been a huge fan of Kensington Protective Products. When I discovered their SmartBlue pattern products at SmartPak, I immediately bought everything I could in that shade for Tempo. He has been using their halters, blankets, and fly mask for years. I also own two of their grooming totes. I originally purchase a SmartBlue one for my grooming tools (and to match Tempo’s brand new equipment), and I recently purchased another one solely for medical supplies. Kensington doesn’t just make the above mentioned items; they also sell other horse-related things such as hay bags, equipment for trail riding, products for dogs, and more.

I was given the opportunity to try the company’s Roustabout All Purpose Saddle Carry Bag ($129.99). It comes in a variety of color options, such as black plaid, plum plaid, mint ice plaid, and SmartPak also has SmartPink, SmartBlue, and SmartPurple.

The saddle bag houses my Butet Premium.

The saddle bag houses my Butet Premium.

The carry bag has a waterproof outer shell and is super durable, made of 600 denier fabric. It also has mesh that allows air to flow, which prevents mold and mildew from forming on your saddle while it is being stored. Additionally, there is a top storage pocket where you can store your saddle pads. This compartment is coated with antibacterial technology. The carry bag has heavy-duty zippers to make loading and unloading the bag super easy. Finally, the bag has a padded shoulder strap to make carrying it around comfortable and easy.

The saddle bag with my saddle inside.

The saddle bag with my saddle inside.

I was very impressed with how roomy the bag is. It has plenty of room for several saddle pads. You can also store a half pad in the top compartment. The area for the saddle is extremely roomy as well. While I was researching the product for this article, I found out that you can actually fit two saddles in the bag, which is awesome! I only have one saddle that I use, so I haven’t yet had to use it for two saddles, but I definitely love that I would be able to fit two saddles in there if I needed to. The amount of storage this carry bag has makes traveling with tack so much easier, more convenient, and less of a burden, especially when you are packing for an away show, clinic, or some other away event where you’ll need your saddle pads, half pad, and your saddle(s).

Loading the bag was very easy. I had no issues getting my saddle inside. The bag zippers open enough that you can just slide your saddle right in, adjust accordingly, zip it back up, and go on your merry way (or in my case, carry it to the tack room and put it on my saddle rack).

The week after I got the saddle bag, I came down with the flu, so I was unable to get out to the barn for a week. However, I thought that was perfect because I would get to see just how much the saddle bag kept out.

unnamed-18When I took my saddle out to ride yesterday, I was surprised to see my saddle was still super clean from the previous week. No dust had settled anywhere. The bag truly does keep everything out. Additionally, another plus of this bag is that it covers the entire saddle. My Butet Premium did come with a fleece cover when I purchased it, but it only covers the top and sides of the saddle, leaving the bottom part and the inner part of the flaps exposed. So oftentimes, if I hadn’t used my saddle in a while, the bottom of the saddle would end up attracting dust from sitting in the tack room. I didn’t have any of those problems with this bag. My saddle was pristine and looked like it had just been cleaned, even though it hadn’t been used in a week due to my inability to get to the barn.

I really love this bag, and I’m not the only one. An Instagram follower left this comment on my Instagram post previewing the saddle bag: “I’ve had mine [the cover] for 10 years now[,] and it still looks brand new!! The quality really shows with how long they last[.] And it’s great for when flying to protect your things … [T]hey are so great.”

I will definitely be using this saddle bag all the time from now on – not just for traveling but also for normal storage in my barn’s tack room between rides. I love how clean it keeps my saddle and that I don’t have to worry about mold or mildew forming if there is ever a time my saddle isn’t used for a while. I also love that it is waterproof. I’m not expecting my barn’s tack room to spring a leak anytime soon, but you can never be too prepared!

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Horses, Product Review

October 6, 2016

Product Review: Equestrian Weekender Tote

By Senior Editor: Joscelyn Richards

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Photo Credit: Georgia Horseback

I recently had the opportunity to try out the new Equestrian Weekender Tote from Georgia Horseback. Immediately I fell in love with the hunter green color and the horse and rider silhouette, complete with red and blue racing stripe accents. The tote bag is big enough to fit everything from your tall boots to an entire weekend’s wardrobe without being bulky (the exact size of the tote bag is 18″ x 26″.)

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The Equestrian Weekender tote in real life

Photo Credit: jlrequinephotography

I have used the bag everyday since I received it, and thanks to the water resistant microfiber material it has not gotten dirty at all. The tote has been everywhere with me from the barn, gym and even to school. This weekend I will be taking it to the beach with me! No matter where I go with it I always receive complements on it, from both equestrians and non-equestrians.

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Photo Credit: Georgia Horseback

 

Aside from the beautiful design and durability of the tote, what impressed me the most with this bag, was the attention to detail. The tote has a two-way zipper, a longer strap so it can easily be worn on your shoulder, as well as a brass horse shoe that you can hook your keys to.

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The Detachable Pouch with attached mirror

Photo Credit: Georgia Horseback 

The tote bag comes with a detachable pouch which easily stores your phone, gloves, mints, etc. There is also a small mirror attached to the pouch, which can be used to check your hairnet or makeup.  Additionally included with the tote is a drawstring bag that features the same horse and rider design that is on the tote bag; it is the perfect size to keep your helmet in!

drawstring_-_sample_1024x1024

The Drawstring bag that comes with the tote

Photo Credit: Georgia Horseback

The Equestrian Weekender Tote would make a perfect gift for any equestrian- including yourself! Georgia Horseback is currently offering a $10 discount on the tote bag which can be purchased here. 

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Equestrian Fashion, Fashion, Guest Posts, Horses, Product Review

August 31, 2016

Product Review: EquiFit GelSox

Written by Liv Godfrey.

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So recently I discovered that even though I adore Lulu’s back T-Foam EquiFit boots, naturally from working, footing slides in between the liners and her hind legs. It was a substantial amount of footing, and her legs were getting really gross, but I didn’t want to buy a new pair of boots as mine are pretty new and still in great condition.

Photo Credit: SmartPak.com

I opted for a product I’ve heard of before from my lifetime groom, Aurora Luce, which would be the EquiFit GelSox. These come in black and tan, but SmartPak only offered tan. The socks came in a nice, heavy duty plastic baggie (that you can definitely store your Sox in). They’re about 2 inches thick when both sides are put together and no longer than a forearm. The outside is a non-slip material that’s kind of similar to Ecogold, and the inside is a clear, non-slip soft gel.

The Sox are designed to support your horse’s legs and keep them dry, clean, cool, and comfortable. I truly believe they do exactly what they are advertised to do, as Lulu moved and jumped amazingly in them. Her hind end was really clean and careful with these on, and she didn’t move differently in any negative way.

When I first put them on her, it took her a second to feel what was going on, but she got used to them really quickly and at the end of our ride the Sox had compressed down probably ½ an inch. I put my T-Foam hind boots right over them (which didn’t move an inch!), and there was still footing under the boot; however, with the GelSox on Lulu had no idea.

The best way to put these on are to bunch them up into a “ring” like a riding sock and stretch them over the foot on the ankles. I then pull them up and adjust them how I like. You do have the option of cutting these socks into a different size, but I haven’t done that because I like the length of them as they come.

Overall I really love these and recommend them to anyone who is looking for extra support on the front or hind end. They’re also really great because your EquiFit boots can go right over them comfortably! They’re easy to clean after each ride as I just rinse both the insides and outsides with cold water and leave them on my trunk to dry overnight.

I think they would be really great for a horse that just needs light protection in turnout too as they don’t fall down, and they protect every inch of the leg. Also, if you have a high-performance athlete, these are great for hand walking. Lastly, EquiFit makes “sox” (called Gel Bands) for humans as well which support ligaments and provide ultimate comfort. Overall I definitely recommend these to anyone whose horse’s legs are sensitive or to anyone that wants an easy way to add some extra protection to their partner’s legs.

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Equine Health, Guest Posts, Horse Advice, Horses, Product Review, Riding Tips, Tips, Training Tips

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amateur hunter/eq rider. lawyer. entrepreneur.
one horse, one pony.
zone two.
perfectionist.
loves the expensive & innovative.

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