What to wear to Badminton Horse Trials
Our style guide to help you decide what to wear to Badminton Horse Trials in 2022…
*** Weather conditions update for 2022 ****
We visited the site on Tuesday 3rd May 2022 and Wednesday 4th May 2022 and it is dry under foot. The ground is holding up well and it is not muddy at all at the moment. Conditions are set to be pleasant over the weekend, with some sunny spells on Saturday and Sunday. We recommend layers as there is a breeze at times, but when the sun is out, it is warm. Pack some sun cream, because there are highs expected of up to 20ºC as we move through the weekend. For snapshots of behind-the-scenes at Badminton and style inspiration, take a look at our stories on Instagram and today’s preview of the Shopping Village. Take a look at what the rider’s wore at the First Horse Inspection in our annual Fashion Report.
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Yes, it is that time of year again! The British Summer Social Season is upon us and what to wear to Badminton Horse Trials is something to think about ahead of the famous equestrian event.
The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials is a popular occasion on our British Summer Social Season Guide. It is set to be one of the main highlights of The Season again in 2022. It attracts some of the best event riders in the world and provides a great day out for spectators.
Aside from the sporting action and world-class competition, the event also offers a wonderful opportunity to escape to the British countryside and it has become increasingly popular for newcomers to the sport to attend. There is plenty on offer for visitors and you can browse the vast shopping village, admire arts and crafts displays and enjoy delicious cuisine.
Badminton Horse Trials
Our coverage of the event always proves tremendously popular and many of our readers are keen to make a debut visit to Badminton this year. We are always inundated with questions about how to dress appropriately for such an occasion and people want to know what to wear to Badminton Horse Trials.
In short, there is no official dress code. This is a relatively relaxed event to attend. It is best to embrace a stylish country look. If you need some tips for the overall style vibe, tweeds, layers to stay warm, smart tailoring, casual-wear and comfort are all key.
You are likely to be on your feet all day. Some people will dress very casually and wear a simple pullover and jeans. However, others use the occasion to celebrate countryside brands and embrace some of the fashionable pieces that are available from the likes of Barbour, Holland Cooper, Hunter Boots, Burberry and Dubarry.
The weather can vary and some years it can be really warm. At other times there has been heavy rain throughout. So, when you are thinking about what to wear to Badminton Horse Trials, you also need to keep a close eye on the weather forecast and use some common sense. This year, the weather is looking great!
Whatever your individual style, there are some fundamental and simple tips that you should keep in mind for what to wear to Badminton Horse Trials. Just follow our key pointers below for guidance…
Tip 1
Practical footwear is essential
This is more of a rule than a tip. While the racing and polo may look more kindly on glamourous footwear, Badminton requires comfortable shoes. A pair of Hunter wellies usually work well and you will see plenty of Dubarry boots, too. If the sun is shining, deck shoes or trainers can provide a lighter alternative. This is a casual occasion, where you will spend a lot of time walking on grass.
Dubarry Boots are a popular choice of footwear
Tip 2
It’s all about layers
Although the Easter sunshine has put us all in the mood for summer, the changeable weather conditions at this time of year mean that you should prepare for variable conditions. Ladies can’t go wrong with a pair of jeans and an elegant vest top, with jeans and a polo shirt acceptable for gentlemen. However, make sure you also have a warm cardigan or jumper with you for a blustery day or a gilet to hand. It can often feel a bit chillier in the morning. A light mac or sports jacket will come in handy should the clouds turn black. As with many events at this time of year, you need to be prepared for the weather conditions and follow the forecast.
Tip 3
Tweed is in
Whilst it may only have a slight flirtation with the London catwalks each season, tweed is certainly the most fashionable texture in the Cotswolds. A classic cut hunting jacket, such as those seen in the Ralph Lauren collections, will guarantee you look chic among the crowd. This Holland Cooper tweed jacket also caught our eye and the British brand has lots of other beautiful pieces in this season’s collection that are suitable for countryside events. This brand has become very popular for those attending events like Badminton.
Tip 4
Accessorise with a spacious bag
When you visit Badminton you are likely to leave your car in the morning and not return until dusk. Therefore, a large bag or spacious handbag is a must for carrying all of your daytime essentials. Our Spring/Summer campaign for the Kate Negus Lifestyle Collection should give ladies some inspiration and we also loved this look below from the AW18 campaign shoot. The bag in this shot is even named after Badminton. You need to think practically when you come to this event and make sure you fill your bag with necessities for the day.
Tip 5
Don’t forget some protective SPF
Sunny spells are expected this weekend, so don’t forget to pack some SPF. Although there are lots of food and beverage stands, a bottle of water will come in handy to help you stay hydrated, especially if you plan to walk the course on Saturday.
What people are wearing
We snapped some looks that were featured at the event…
The Badminton Horse Trials Lookbook
If you need some inspiration of how to put your outfit together, take a look at our Badminton Horse Trials Lookbook. This will gives you some ideas for what to wear to Badminton Horse Trials in 2022:
NET-A-PORTER
Dubarry
Holland Cooper
Belstaff
Barbour for him
Barbour
Belstaff
Beretta
Gucci
Belstaff
Plan your summer with the help of Sloaney Season and discover more style tips here.
