RIDE: The Costume Concours d’Élégance – history, fashion and side saddle tradition in modern equestrian sport

Introduction

The Costume Concours d’Élégance brings history, elegance and theatre into the competition arena, celebrating riders who perform in historically inspired outfits while riding side saddle.
This discipline keeps a living connection to earlier centuries of equestrian culture, when women of status commonly rode aside rather than astride.

What is Costume Concours d’Élégance?

Costume Concours d’Élégance is a judged class in which riders appear in period or themed costumes and are evaluated on turnout, style and harmony with the horse.
The focus is not only on technical riding, but also on how convincingly horse and rider evoke a specific era or character through clothing, tack and overall presentation.

Side saddle and its heritage

Side saddle riding developed as a way for women to ride while conforming to social expectations about modesty and dress, especially when long skirts were mandatory.
Over time it evolved into a refined art, associated with aristocratic hunting fields, formal parades and ceremonial occasions where poise and impeccable balance were prized.

Costumes and historical inspiration

Riders often choose costumes referencing Victorian or Edwardian hunting attire, court dress, military uniforms, or characters from literature and film.
Authenticity in fabrics, cut and accessories is valued, but practicality and safety in the saddle remain essential, so many competitors adapt historical styles to modern materials.

Judging criteria and atmosphere

Judges typically consider elegance of the rider, suitability and fit of the costume, turnout of the horse, and the overall picture created in motion.
The atmosphere at such classes is usually festive and theatrical, with spectators appreciating both the craftsmanship of the outfits and the skill required to ride securely aside.

Modern relevance of side saddle

Although side saddle is no longer the everyday norm, enthusiasts keep the discipline alive through shows, displays and specialist competitions.
Events like Costume Concours d’Élégance demonstrate that side saddle can be both historically respectful and creatively modern, attracting riders who enjoy tradition as well as performance.

Rider–horse partnership

Successful competitors aim for a calm, rhythmic performance where the horse moves freely despite unfamiliar fabrics and flowing skirts.
Trust between rider and horse is crucial, as the side saddle position requires subtle aids and balance, especially when the costume adds visual distractions or extra movement.

“We take a look at how side saddle riding maintains a link to equestrian's history…”

Author’s summary

A vivid, theatrical class where side saddle riders in period-inspired costumes transform the arena into a moving slice of equestrian history, uniting style, tradition and precise horsemanship.

FEI.org — 2025-12-01