The Rail & Co. is a fresh, new, and American-made apparel collection that started with one woman’s desire to create show-inspired apparel that can be worn at the stable, at a show, and even in the city.
This wearable collection is brought to you by Christina Clarke (Azucena), a former NFL cheerleader and past Miss Washington USA. Christina says that in her eyes, “Wearable tops are long enough to cover you when getting on and off your horse, are stylish, tailored, and feel great on.”
Creativity and fashion were defining features in Clarke’s life, and it led to the launch of The Rail & Co. Christina reflects on the birth of the company, stating that it stemmed from her first business, On The Rail Photo & Design. She told us that much of the inspiration for her new clothing line comes from photography and designs that she has created for clients. Much of Clarke’s work has appeared monthly in GoHorseShow’s digital magazine, GoMag.
Though the brand’s primary focus is on t-shirts, the debut collection also introduces a few new concepts for hoodies. One of our favorite sweatshirts, aptly named the ‘Lope-Over Hoodie,’ features a trail course design complete with poles and pattern outlines – perfect for trail junkies!
Being an AQHA exhibitor herself, Christina found it difficult to find stylish casual wear that reflected performance events. “It’s always been tricky for me to find non-cliché riding t-shirts!” Christina says. “Sayings like ‘save a horse’ are fun and cheeky, but I couldn’t get myself to wear a shirt like that to the barn, let alone to the grocery store.”
After speaking with other exhibitors, she found that many others shared the same feelings. With this, she hit the drawing board – literally. Christina starts her design process by sketching out figure flattering shapes and designs. Being a former Miss USA competitor like fellow AQHA exhibitor Abby Floyd, she is well versed on how to enhance the contours of the body with design.
Christina was brand new to pageants when she was crowned Miss Washington USA, and was only 17 years old when she made the NFL cheer squad. “I’m very familiar with being a rookie, and I’ve found it to be incredibly powerful to start from the bottom because every moment is a learning experience—success or failure. It’s very humbling and builds character,” says the designer.
The other half behind The Rail & Co. is Ramil Azucena, Christina’s husband. He spent ten years as an Art Director and designer, working with trendy lifestyle and streetwear clients. Ramil worked with Zumiez, Urban Outfitters, Zebraclub, Pow Gloves, Nike and GShock. “It’s a real treat to have someone so talented on our team, plus, I love working with my husband!” says Christina.
When asked about creating a new design, Christina says that she draws mainly from her friends that ride—“their grit and their grace.”
Clarke also says that music and photography inspires her to create. It’s no secret that equestrians love what they do, but fashion statements aren’t just made in the show ring. The Rail & Co. features designs that represent a lifestyle.
Here’s what other performance horse exhibitors are saying about The Rail & Co.:
I got my Shirt from the Rail & Co. and I instantly fell in love. The way it fit and the high quality material made the shirt incredibly comfortable to wear. They have become my new favorite riding shirts and I’ve gotten compliments on them whenever I’ve worn them. ~ Kaitlyn Schols, AQHA All-Around Youth Exhibitor
I ordered two tees from The Rail and Co and I was so excited that I wore one to the barn the day I got it! I have a long torso and can never find tees that have the feminine cut and are long enough to ride in. I am pleased to say that both tees are the perfect fit and the designs are the perfect way to show your equestrian pride! ~ Erin Gorman, AQHA Ranch Riding Amateur Exhibitor
“I am in love with my new T-shirt from The Rail and Co.! The versatile fit makes it the perfect T-shirt for a day around town or a long day at a horseshow and the designs capture the quintessential equestrian. ~ Nicole Sparrow, AQHA/APHA All-Around Amateur Exhibitor
For a limited time, The Rail & Co. is offering free shipping on all orders over $50. We encourage you to check out their online shop at www.railandco.com.
