Dressage is a sport of precision and pageantry—and that extends to what you wear in the arena. The right attire doesn’t just meet the requirements: it enhances your confidence and complements your ride. Whether you're getting ready for your first show or refining your competition wardrobe, this guide will help you build a dressage look that follows the rules and reflects your personal style.
What to wear for a dressage schooling show →
What to wear for an official dressage competition →
What is a dressage outfit?
Dressage has deep military roots, and that legacy lives on in the formal, structured look of modern dressage attire. The sport originated from cavalry training, which required discipline, precision, and polished presentation. Even today, both active and retired military personnel are permitted to wear their official uniforms in dressage competitions.
Many of the standard elements of a formal dressage outfit reflect the discipline’s ties to military formality:
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The shadbelly mirrors the long military dress coats worn during formal inspections and ceremonies.
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The white breeches and gloves provide the crisp, uniform appearance expected of soldiers.
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Tall black boots were once standard issue for cavalry riders, offering both protection and polish.
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The stock tie originated as a military neck brace for protection and evolved into a formal accessory.
While the silhouette remains traditional, today’s dressage apparel has evolved to meet modern performance standards. Contemporary show coats and breeches are made from technical, breathable fabrics designed to offer flexibility, cooling, and comfort—without compromising the elegant appearance the sport is known for.
What’s the difference between a dressage competition and a schooling show?
The main differences between an official dressage competition and a dressage schooling show lie in their levels of formality, regulations, and affiliations. Here’s an overview of both competition types.
Official dressage competition
Dressage competitions are organized by recognized equestrian governing bodies like the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) in the USA or the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) internationally. They adhere to strict rules and regulations regarding attire, horse eligibility, judging standards, and facility requirements. Official competitions are often larger in scale than schooling shows, attracting participants from around the country and even spanning several days.
Dressage schooling show
Schooling shows are typically more informal and are often hosted by local equestrian facilities, riding clubs, or training centers. They provide a lower-pressure environment for riders and horses to gain experience and practice their skills without the strict adherence to official competition rules. Schooling shows are typically smaller in scale and may be held more frequently, catering to riders within the local community. They’re a great way to get accustomed to the equestrian competition scene before participating in an official show.
What to wear to a dressage schooling show
Although dressage schooling shows are less formal than competitions, you’re still expected to adhere to a certain dress code. Here are the essentials you’ll need for your first schooling show.
Show shirt
A long-sleeved, collared show shirt in a solid, neutral color is typically preferred for schooling shows. Choose a shirt made of moisture-wicking material to keep you cool and comfortable during your rides.
Our recommendation:
Tori Show Shirt ($115)
With silky, cooling fabric, the Tori Show Shirt helps you maintain optimum body temperature for premium performance. It has a sleek, form-fitting silhouette and multiple collar trim options so you can personalize your style. Also available in girls’ sizes.
Learn how to buy a show shirt →
Breeches or jodhpurs
Proper riding breeches or jodhpurs in a white, light, or dark color are required. Adult riders typically wear breeches, while junior riders wear jodhpurs during competitions. Full-seat grip is ideal for dressage, as it allows for proper contact between seat and saddle. Riding pants should fit snugly while providing freedom of movement.
Learn more: Breeches vs. Jodhpurs: What's the Difference?
Our recommendations:
Kaia Silicone Full Seat Breech ($239)
With a full-seat silicone grip, the Kaia breech provides the saddle contact you need for dressage. Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and dry throughout your ride and provides stretch for ease of movement.
Collette Jodhpur ($169)
The Collette Jodhpur features premium quick-dry and stretch fabric with polished details, offering young riders all-day comfort, coverage, and a classic look that’s ideal for dressage.
Boots
Adult riders wear tall black dress boots with their breeches, while juniors wear matching paddock boots and half chaps with their jodhpurs. For your safety, your boots must have a distinguishable heel that won’t slip through the stirrup. Be sure to clean and polish your boots before your show for a professional appearance.
Learn more: How to Choose the Right Riding Boots (+ 8 of our favorites)
Gloves
Riding gloves help maintain a good grip on the reins and protect your hands from blisters. Choose gloves that fit well and allow for dexterity. Riders typically coordinate their glove color with the rest of their tack or outfit.
Helmet
Just like any other equestrian discipline, dressage requires riders to wear an ASTM/SEI-certified helmet that fits properly and securely. While black or navy helmets are traditional, other dark colors are generally acceptable. Dressage also allows for subtle details like chrome panels or crystal accents.
Learn more: How to Buy an Equestrian Riding Helmet: Sizing, Fit, Considerations
Dressage competition dress code
Dressage show attire must meet the standard requirements listed below, except when show rules indicate otherwise. Some regions or riding clubs may have additional guidelines, so it’s always best to check local rules before finalizing your outfit.
Show coat
A well-fitted three- or four-button show coat in a solid color is required for most dressage events, while shadbelly coats are required at higher-level competitions. While black is traditional, you can wear any color show coat—just make sure patterns like pinstripes or plaid are subtle. Show off your style with details like a contrasting or piped collar, decorative buttons, or crystal embellishments.
Our recommendations:
Melody Mesh Show Coat ($319)
With its elegant lines and lightweight construction, the Melody Mesh Show Coat brings modern athleticism to traditional dressage style. Breathable mesh keeps you cool, while the Italian jersey front panel preserves the conservative dressage look. Interchangeable buttons let you switch between polished silver or classic black for added versatility.
Harmony Jr. Mesh Show Coat ($249)
Designed specifically for young riders, the Harmony Jr. Mesh Show Coat offers classic dressage style with lightweight comfort. The mesh body enhances breathability, and the Italian jersey front keeps the look arena-ready. A tailored silhouette and thoughtful details help junior riders feel polished and confident in the spotlight.
Learn how to buy a show coat →
Show shirt
The show shirt underneath your jacket can be any color, but most dressage riders opt for plain white, long-sleeved show shirts. That way, you’re prepared to look polished with or without your jacket—just in case it’s waived due to extreme heat. Your show shirt should have a stand-up collar and a close, athletic fit that doesn’t bunch up under your show coat.
Our recommendations:
Liv Show Shirt ($115)
Dressage show shirts should prioritize performance without sacrificing polish—and Liv delivers. Its silky, cooling fabric keeps you comfortable during long show days, while the crisp white collar and bib maintain a clean, traditional look under your coat. Subtle prints add a hint of flair when the coat comes off.
Tori Jr. Show Shirt ($99)
Classic from a distance and sporty up close, the Tori Jr. is built for performance and polish. Cooling fabric, perforated accents, and soft stretch keep young riders comfortable in the saddle while the clean white collar ensures an elevated show look.
Stock tie
Stock ties and stand-up collars are required in dressage events. Ties can be any color, though white is most popular. You may choose to accessorize your look with a stock tie pin.
Our recommendation:
Camden Pre-Tied Stock Tie ($27)
The Camden Pre-Tied Stock Tie offers a polished, traditional finish without the hassle of tying. Available in smooth or textured cotton, it completes your dressage look with a crisp, professional touch.
Learn how to tie a stock tie →
Breeches or jodhpurs
Any white, light, or dark-colored breeches are allowed, but most adults stick with white breeches. Bright colors and bold patterns are not permitted. They should have a tailored fit, plenty of stretch, and full-seat grips for stability in the saddle.
Our recommendations:
Kaia Silicone Full Seat Breech ($239)
The Kaia Breech offers structure and support tailored to the demands of dressage. With a mid-rise silhouette and silicone full seat, it provides the security and freedom of movement you need to stay balanced through every movement.
Avery Breech ($145)
The Avery Breech delivers a refined look with all-day comfort. The sculpting stretch fabric offers coverage and freedom of movement, while the natural rise and euro seat create a flattering, classic silhouette in the saddle.
Boots
Tall dress boots in black are standard for dressage competition. They should be clean, well-fitted, and polished to maintain a traditional, professional appearance. Boots must have a distinguishable heel for safety in the stirrups. Junior riders may continue to wear paddock boots with matching half chaps if permitted by their competition level.
Gloves
Riding gloves are required when performing in dressage events. Many riders choose to wear white or light-colored gloves and coordinate them with the color of their breeches or stock ties.
Helmet
The same helmet requirements apply for dressage competitions: riders must wear an ASTM/SEI-certified helmet that fits properly and is fastened securely. While dark-colored helmets are standard, tasteful accents and modern finishes are permitted.
Belt
If your breeches or jodhpurs have belt loops, consider adding a belt. While not required, a belt that coordinates with your boots adds polish and pulls your looks together—especially when your show coat comes off.
Bobbie Reversible Belt ($130)
The Bobbie Belt adds structure and style to your dressage outfit. The reversible design provides two color options—perfect for coordinating with your boots or saddle pad. And with an elegant equestrian buckle, it instantly elevates your show look.
Spurs
Spurs are optional in dressage competitions. If worn, they must be metal, with the shank positioned parallel to your boot and angled downward if curved. If rowels are used, they must be smooth or blunt and able to rotate freely.
Hair
Adult riders must wear their hair in a neat bun or hair net, regardless of length. Younger female riders can choose to wear a ponytail or braids with ribbons.
How to level up your dressage outfit: coordinate colors with your horse
You and your horse are a team—so why not dress like one? Coordinating your outfit with your horse’s coloring is an easy way to elevate your overall look, especially at schooling shows where there’s more room for creative expression. Choosing colors that complement your horse’s coat can help your turnout appear polished and intentional. Many riders like to match their horse’s saddle pad or bonnet to an accent in their own outfit—like a belt, gloves, or the piping on a coat.
Here are some go-to color combinations to help you create a cohesive and eye-catching look:
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Light Gray: Dark colors like black, navy, or burgundy provide bold contrast against a light gray coat. Certain shades of purple—especially deep plum—can also look striking.
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Dark Gray: Lighter colors work beautifully here. Try soft pastels, white, or even silvery tones for a clean, elegant effect.
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Black: Nearly every color pairs well with a black horse. Choose light tones for strong contrast or stick with deep, rich hues like royal blue for a cohesive, sophisticated look.
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Palomino: Cream, white, navy, green, and red all stand out nicely. Avoid yellow or orange, which may blend into the golden coat.
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Chestnut: Cool tones like blue and green contrast well with the warm red tones of a chestnut coat. Coordinated reds and oranges can also work, as long as they don’t clash with your horse’s natural coloring.
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Bay: Browns and creams complement bay coats, but bolder shades like burgundy and emerald green can add a rich, luxurious feel.
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Red Roan: These coats vary in tone, so matching undertones is key. Rust, cream, and emerald green are all flattering choices.
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Blue Roan: Cool-toned shades like steel blue and soft gray echo the undertones of a blue roan and create a sleek, harmonious look.
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Buckskin & Dun: These high-contrast coats look fantastic with dark green, navy, or other deep jewel tones that enhance their natural color.
You may also like: Equestrian Fashion Lookbook: An Outfit for Every Discipline
What should beginners wear to their first dressage lesson?
If you’re just starting out and aren’t riding in shows yet, your focus should be on comfort, safety, and developing good riding habits. Formal show gear isn’t required, but wearing well-fitted, discipline-appropriate apparel can help you feel more confident and prepared.
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Tucked-in schooling shirt
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Paddock boots or tall boots
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ASTM/SEI-approved riding helmet
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Riding gloves
You don’t need to invest in a full competition wardrobe right away. Many riders start with basic schooling gear and gradually build their collection as they gain experience. Choose comfortable, functional pieces that suit your current riding level—your trainer can also help guide you on what’s expected at your barn or program. Most importantly, wear something that lets you move freely and feel good in the saddle.
Dress for confidence in any arena
Whether you’re perfecting transitions at a schooling show or riding down centerline at a recognized competition, what you wear matters. Dressage calls for a polished, professional appearance—and the right apparel can help you feel confident, focused, and prepared for every movement. R.J. Classics offers thoughtfully designed pieces that balance tradition with modern performance, so you can step into the arena with confidence and style.
From your dressage debut to the Grand Prix, our apparel helps you look and perform your best in the saddle. Shop women’s and girls’ show clothing to find the perfect outfit for your next dressage schooling show or competition.
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