Stepping into the show ring isn’t just about performance—it’s about presence. You’ve got the breeches, the riding shirt, and the show coat, but it’s the details that really bring your outfit to life. The right accessories don’t just complete your look; they add personality, polish, and a touch of your unique style. From elegant belts and layers to tack charms and jewelry, we’ve created a list of the best horse show accessories to add some personality and elevate your riding look.
Choosing accessories you'll actually use
The best English riding accessories are the ones that fit naturally into your riding routine. While some pieces are everyday essentials you’ll use for lessons, schooling rides, and barn time, others are reserved for horse shows or special occasions.
When building your collection, consider where and how often you ride, the disciplines you participate in, and which accessories will provide the most value over time. Prioritizing versatile, well-made pieces helps you create a riding wardrobe that works for both your current needs and your future goals.
The accessories below are organized from everyday essentials to optional finishing touches, making it easier to decide which pieces to invest in first.
Essential English riding accessories
If you’re building your first English riding wardrobe, start with the accessories you’ll use most often. These everyday essentials support comfort, safety, and a polished turnout for lessons, schooling rides, and beyond.
Belts
A riding belt should fit comfortably without pinching, shifting, or interfering with your movement in the saddle. Look for a style with enough adjustability to provide a secure fit across different breeches and riding outfits, and choose a durable design that works for both everyday schooling and competition turnout. Classic leather belts remain a popular choice for their versatility and timeless equestrian style.
Featured product: The R.J. Classics Bobbie Reversible Belt
This belt combines timeless style with everyday versatility. Made from premium Spanish leather, it features two wearable color options in one belt, making it easy to coordinate with multiple riding outfits. The signature R.J. Classics horse logo buckle adds an understated equestrian detail, while the reversible design makes it a practical choice for riders who want one belt that works across schooling and competition.
Gloves
The best riding gloves often depend on when and where you ride. Lightweight, breathable styles are ideal for warm-weather schooling, while insulated gloves can make winter rides much more comfortable. Many riders keep a second pair reserved for horse shows so they always have a clean, polished option on hand.
Featured product: Roeckl Riding Gloves
Known for their exceptional fit and feel, Roeckl riding gloves are a longtime favorite among English riders. They're available in a variety of lightweight and insulated styles, offering excellent grip, durability, and flexibility for every season. Whether you're schooling at home or competing in the show ring, they provide the close contact many riders look for without sacrificing comfort.
Riding socks
Choose thin riding socks specifically designed to wear with tall boots. Thick athletic socks can create pressure points, cause boots to fit too tightly, and make it harder for the leather to sit smoothly against your leg. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics that stay in place throughout the ride.
Featured product: Dreamers & Schemers Socks
Dreamers & Schemers Socks combine fun equestrian-inspired patterns with practical performance. Designed to fit comfortably under tall boots, they're soft, breathable, and durable enough for everyday riding while giving riders a chance to show a little personality, at least until the boots go on.
Tall boots
A quality pair of tall boots should feel snug when they're new, especially through the ankle and calf. Leather naturally softens and stretches with wear, so resist the temptation to size up too much. Breaking them in gradually before a competition will help them become more comfortable while maintaining a polished fit.
Featured product: Fabbri Pro Boots
Fabbri Pro Boots are handcrafted in Italy from premium calf leather and are known for their elegant fit, comfort, and craftsmanship. Available in both field and dress styles, they combine classic styling with modern stretch technology to provide a close, supportive fit that molds to the rider over time.
Helmets
A properly fitted helmet is the most important piece of riding equipment you'll own. Always choose a current ASTM/SEI-certified helmet that fits securely without pressure points, offers adequate ventilation for your climate, and replace it after any significant fall or impact. Once you've found the right fit, details like the finish, trim, and visor style become a matter of personal preference.
Featured product: KASK Star Lady Chrome Helmet
The KASK Star Lady Chrome Helmet blends advanced safety features with elegant styling, making it a favorite for both schooling and competition. Its self-adjusting fit system, breathable ventilation, and washable antibacterial liner help keep riders comfortable through long days at the barn, while a variety of chrome accents and color combinations make it easy to complement your show-ring look.
Horse show accessories
These accessories help complete your show turnout while reflecting the traditions of your discipline. Check the show rules to determine which pieces are required for your classes and ensure a proper presentation.
Stock tie pins
A stock tie pin is a classic finishing touch in English riding attire, designed to keep your stock tie securely in place while adding a subtle element of personal style. Essential for dressage, eventing, hunter derbies, and fox hunting, an understated pin adds a polished accent to your formal show look.
Featured product: Dubois Cheval Stock Pins
The Dubois Cheval Stock Pins collection features elegant, competition-ready designs that complement any formal turnout. Easy to clasp with a reliable hold, they keep your tie crisp and secure from the warm-up ring through long days of competition.
Watch our tutorial for step-by-step guidance on tying and pinning a traditional stock tie.
Spur straps
If you ride with spurs, your spur straps are another opportunity to add a bit of personality while still maintaining a classic appearance. Traditional leather straps remain the standard for formal competition, while decorative options are a fun way to personalize your everyday schooling gear.
Featured product: R.J. Classics 25th Anniversary Spur Straps
The R.J. Classics 25th Anniversary Spur Straps celebrate the brand's heritage with premium leather construction and distinctive anniversary detailing. They're an elegant option for riders who appreciate subtle design touches while maintaining the timeless look expected in the show ring.
Hair accessories
A neat hairstyle is part of a polished turnout, especially in the show ring. Show bows are a classic addition for younger riders, while hairnets and simple accessories help keep hair secure under your helmet and create the clean, professional appearance expected in many English disciplines.
Featured product: Ponytail Bows
Ponytail Bows offer a fun finishing touch at the end of young riders’ braids. Available in a variety of colors and styles, they're designed to stay secure throughout the day while complementing, not distracting from, your overall turnout.
Personalized accessories and finishing touches
Once you've covered the essentials, a few thoughtfully chosen accessories can make your riding wardrobe feel more personal. The key is choosing pieces that complement your overall turnout rather than compete with it. Whether you're headed to a schooling ride or a horse show, subtle details often make the biggest impact.
Necklaces
Simple necklaces are an easy way to add a personal touch without distracting from your riding attire. Choose delicate pieces that won't interfere with your helmet, stock tie, or movement in the saddle, and save larger statement jewelry for after the ride.
Featured product: JMK Designs Necklaces
JMK Designs offers handcrafted equestrian-inspired necklaces that celebrate a rider's passion with understated style. From horse heads and stirrups to horseshoes and personalized designs, these timeless pieces are easy to wear at the barn, around town, or as a meaningful gift for the horse lover in your life.
Bracelets
Bracelets can complement your everyday riding style, but comfort should come first. Look for lightweight, low-profile designs that won't catch on clothing or tack and can comfortably stay on throughout the day.
Featured product: eNewton Bracelets
eNewton bracelets are known for their simple, stackable designs and durable construction, making them a favorite for everyday wear. Their classic style pairs effortlessly with both casual barn clothes and polished show attire, giving riders an accessory they'll reach for long after leaving the stable.
Belt bags
Every rider needs a convenient place to keep essentials like gloves, hairnets, lip balm, and treats. A compact bag that attaches to your belt is easy to carry around the barn or on your ride and keeps everything organized without adding unnecessary bulk.
Featured product: Tucker Tweed Stablemate Belt Bag
The Tucker Tweed Stablemate Flap is designed specifically with equestrians in mind. Its compact size makes it ideal for carrying everyday essentials, while the refined leather construction transitions seamlessly from the barn to errands, horse shows, or dinner after a day of riding.
Tack charms
Tack charms are an easy way to personalize your bridle without making permanent changes to your tack. While they're not appropriate for every competition, they're a fun way to add character during schooling rides, clinics, or everyday time at the barn.
Featured product: Pinsnickety Clip Charms
Pinsnickety Clip Charms attach easily to your tack and come in a wide variety of equestrian-inspired designs, from lucky symbols to seasonal favorites. They're a simple way to celebrate your personality or commemorate special milestones while keeping your tack uniquely yours.
Crop charms
A riding crop is a practical tool, but the handle can also be an opportunity for subtle personalization. Decorative crop charms let riders distinguish their equipment while adding a touch of equestrian style that's easy to swap out whenever they want a new look.
Featured product: Dubois Cheval Crop Charms
Dubois Cheval Crop Charms are handcrafted accessories designed to bring a little personality to an everyday piece of equipment. Available in a variety of elegant styles, they make thoughtful gifts for riders or a fun way to customize your own gear.
Number charms
Horse show numbers are functional by design, but they don't have to be plain. Number charms offer a subtle way to dress up your competition number while still maintaining a polished, professional appearance.
Featured product: Dubois Cheval Number Charms
Dubois Cheval Number Charms are designed to add an elegant finishing touch to your show number holder. With a variety of refined designs to choose from, they're a simple way to personalize your turnout while keeping the focus where it belongs—on your ride.
Layering pieces for changing weather
A full day at the barn can mean chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and everything in between. Lightweight layers help you stay comfortable without restricting movement, making them an easy addition to your riding wardrobe whether you're heading to a lesson, horse show, or simply spending the day around the stable.
Sweaters
A versatile sweater is one of the easiest layers to keep on hand for cool mornings or evenings at the barn. Look for breathable knits with a comfortable fit that layer easily over a schooling shirt without adding unnecessary bulk under a jacket or vest.
Featured product: R.J. Classics Mollie Sweater
The R.J. Classics Mollie Sweater combines classic equestrian style with everyday comfort. Its soft knit fabric, flattering silhouette, and timeless design make it just as appropriate for a day at the barn as it is for casual outings, giving riders a layer they'll wear well beyond riding season.
Vests
A lightweight vest provides warmth where you need it most while leaving your arms free to ride comfortably. It's an ideal layering piece during transitional seasons and can easily be added or removed as temperatures change throughout the day.
Featured product: R.J. Classics Harlie Vest
The R.J. Classics Harlie Vest offers lightweight warmth without sacrificing mobility in the saddle. Designed with a flattering, tailored fit and practical features for everyday wear, it's an easy layer to reach for whether you're schooling, walking the course, or spending time around the barn.
Riding jackets
A lightweight riding jacket can bridge the gap between cool mornings and warmer afternoons while maintaining a polished equestrian look. Choose a style that allows for unrestricted movement and layers comfortably over your riding shirt without feeling bulky.
Featured product: R.J. Classics Kira Jacket
The R.J. Classics Kira Jacket is designed for riders who want everyday performance with classic styling. Its lightweight construction, stretch fabric, and streamlined fit provide comfort in and out of the saddle, making it a versatile layer for schooling, travel, and time around the barn.
Choosing accessories for your discipline
While safety essentials remain consistent across English riding, accessory choices become more discipline-specific once you step into the show ring. Most organizations allow riders some flexibility, but traditional turnout is often rewarded, especially in judged disciplines. Before competing, always review your organization's current rulebook and consult your trainer if you're unsure what's appropriate.
Hunters and equitation
Hunters and equitation reward a polished, traditional presentation, so accessories should never distract from the overall picture. For most classes, that means:
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Conservative ASTM/SEI-certified helmet
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Black leather gloves
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Black field boots
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Conservative leather belt
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Minimal jewelry
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Traditional hairnet or hair bow
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White stock tie for hunter derby classes or other classes where appropriate
Learn more: What Is Hunter Jumper? Riding Disciplines Explained
Jumpers
Jumpers offer more flexibility, allowing riders to incorporate a bit more personality while maintaining a professional turnout. Common accessory choices include:
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ASTM/SEI-certified helmet
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Field boots
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Gloves (recommended)
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Spurs (optional)
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Conservative belt or tasteful statement belt
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Simple jewelry
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Colorful socks or subtle personalized accessories for schooling and some competitions
Learn more: Show Jumping Attire & Etiquette: Beginner’s Guide
Dressage
Dressage emphasizes tradition and elegance, making classic accessories the safest choice. Riders commonly wear:
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ASTM/SEI-certified helmet
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White stock tie
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Solid-colored gloves
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Tall dress boots
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Spurs
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Conservative jewelry
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Neatly secured hair
Learn more: Dressage Show Attire, Dress Code, and Style Tips for Riders
Eventing
Because turnout changes throughout the phases, eventers often balance tradition with practicality. Consider:
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ASTM/SEI-certified helmet appropriate for each phase
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Durable riding gloves
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Tall boots or gaiters, depending on the phase
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Hair secured for all phases
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Accessories that remain secure and won't interfere with performance
Fox hunting
Fox hunting places a strong emphasis on tradition, and turnout follows long-established conventions. While specific attire varies depending on the hunt and your status within the field, riders should generally expect to wear:
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Black or brown ASTM/SEI-certified riding helmet
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White stock tie
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Black, brown, or white riding gloves
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Tall field or dress boots in black or brown
If you're attending your first hunt, check with the hunt secretary or your host before purchasing new accessories, as local traditions and expectations can vary.
Learn more: Foxhunting Attire & Etiquette - Beginner's Guide
Common accessory mistakes to avoid
The right accessories can elevate your turnout, but a few common missteps can have the opposite effect. Whether you're riding at home or preparing for a horse show, keeping these tips in mind will help you look polished, stay comfortable, and get the most from your gear.
Choosing style over fit
It's easy to be drawn to a particular color or design, but fit should always come first, especially when it comes to helmets, gloves, and tall boots. Accessories that fit properly are not only more comfortable but also perform the way they're intended to.
Saving everything for show day
New boots, gloves, belts, or stock ties shouldn't make their debut the morning of a competition. Wear and adjust your gear during schooling rides first so you know it fits comfortably and won't distract you once you're in the ring.
Wearing accessories that don't match the occasion
What works for a casual lesson isn't always appropriate for a horse show. Colorful socks, decorative tack charms, or statement jewelry can be a fun way to personalize your everyday rides, but many competitions call for a more traditional, understated appearance.
Complete your riding wardrobe with thoughtfully chosen accessories
Whether you're replacing everyday essentials or adding the finishing touches that reflect your personality, investing in well-made accessories keeps you comfortable and confident as you ride.
From sleek, practical belts to show shirts with hidden collar patterns, R.J. Classics designs elevated details that complete your outfit while meeting competition standards. Explore our collection to find the perfect equestrian accessories to accent your show and schooling looks.
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