Tredstep Ireland Hosts Fashion Show in West Chester

Meet Colleen Peachey! She’s one of the new writers we’re bringing onto the EN team this fall in anticipation of some super exciting news we’ll be unveiling in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Colleen was kind enough to attend the Tredstep Ireland Fashion Show held at Rick’s Heritage  Saddlery in West Chester, Pa., last weekend. Tredstep is one of EN’s awesome sponsors, and they’re also offering $100 off their Raphael or Donatello boots this month only. Click here to check out Tredstep Ireland.

What if I told you a bit of water would rinse that coffee right off?

From Colleen:

When talking about the premiere destinations for fashion, certain cities come to mind — Paris, New York, Milan, Los Angeles … and West Chester, Pa? Ok, so maybe West Chester isn’t really a hub of activity in the fashion world. Last time I was hoofing it around town, I certainly did not see the fashion police on patrol. But last weekend, the equestrian residents of the area were able to relax and munch on some cookies (just don’t tell my trainer) while watching the Tredstep Ireland Fashion Show at Rick’s Heritage Saddlery.

Fashion show? Sure, some of you might be rolling your eyes or raising an eyebrow right now. Most riders I know don’t really have the time of day to go to something as frivolous as a typical fashion show. I mean, we spend hours every day mucking, grooming, riding, and sweating. Let’s just say that my outfits usually feature horse snot, half-eaten chunks of carrots and pieces of hay. So, how do you know if YOU would have enjoyed the Tredstep Ireland Fashion Show?

When you see a new pair of boots, do you want to grab them so you can feel and smell the buttery soft leather? Are you more excited to go shopping for a new pair of breeches than a new pair of jeans (because really, who enjoys shopping for new jeans anyway)? Do you try to talk your great Aunt Erma into buying you a new schooling top for Christmas, instead of another ghastly sweater, because you will wear actually wear it? (Even though you already have the same top in three other colors.)

I thankfully was spared from seeing a line of expressionless models marching around in outfits that would frighten small children and animals. Instead, I spent a pleasant afternoon watching models stroll around Rick’s saddle room in drool-worthy Tredstep Ireland competition and schooling gear.  If you weren’t in the audience Rick’s, here’s what you missed:

1. A fun and relaxing equestrian atmosphere: After walking through the doorway to view the fashion show, attendees were greeted with a scrumptious table of cookies, fruit and apple cider (a fall favorite in the West Chester area!). Instead of an uptight crowd, there was an assorted collection of equestrians (in various states of readiness to go mount up and ride!). The atmosphere was relaxed, and during the time before the event began, everyone’s attention was drawn to the adorable pup in audience. Tredstep Ireland’s own Elaine Jenkins served as MC for the event.

2. A heart-attack inducing demo: I love the way white breeches look as a part of my show attire as much as the next person does. But let’s face it. White breeches have to be some sort of cosmic joke when one considers that they are supposed to be worn around horses. I’ve lost count of the number of times my horse has decided to sneeze on me or just use me as a scratching post about five minutes before I’m due in the ring. At least if the offending smudge is on your butt, the saddle will block it from view (unless you’re in two point, and then, hello!). But those days are about to be over.

The demo that Elaine shared with us was done using a pair of white Symphony No. 3 Rosa breeches and a cup of Starbucks coffee. Yes, you read that correctly. Starbucks. White breeches. Pending disaster? You would think so. It seemed like a crime to intentionally pour coffee over brand new white breeches. I mean, who would DO such a thing? But then, the amazing happened. When a bottle of water was taken and poured over the breeches, the coffee all rinsed off. All of it. Seriously. Do I need a pair of these for my next show? YES!

3. Drool-worthy riding attire: Sitting there with the aroma of leather in the air and Ellie Goulding’s “Anything Can Happen” playing in the background, I started mentally picturing an upgrade to my own riding wardrobe. After seeing the absolutely incredible demonstration of the coffee conquering breeches, who wouldn’t want a pair? All of Tredstep’s clothes are designed with the rider in mind, first and foremost. Fashion and function? Yes, please!

While I felt like I was a little overwhelmed by all of the great looking attire, I’ve narrowed my favorites down enough to add them to my Christmas list. And I may have brought home a pair of Symphony No. 3 Rosa breeches for schooling. So now, I challenge you — dirt, grime, coffee. Do your worst. I’ll just laugh at you while I’m wearing my Rosa breeches. Now, excuse me while I go finish off my Christmas wish list while dreaming of field boots (because who even knows what a sugar plum is?).

Go Fashion. Go Coffee-Conquering Breeches. Go Eventing.