Aren’t vests amazing? The perks are countless, but one of the best benefits is changing the shirt color underneath. It’s almost like getting several outfits for the price of one.
Then, there’s the added benefit of having a secure bodice while your arms are free to move, and who doesn’t like that aspect when showing? It’s also a look that a rider of age, division, size, or budget can pull off. They are flattering and work as a body shaper to create a slim silhouette.
Shown in the photo (right) is a bolero style vest and shirt set by Platinum Show Apparel sold at Show Me Again.
One of the biggest complaints we hear about show clothing is that they are hot. We know your comfort is important, and while it can be impossible to stay cool wearing long sleeved, collared tops in the dead of summer, vests help with the weight, breathability and overall comfort during the hottest summer months of showing.
Pictured left is a lightweight Lycra shirt and Lycra vest without crystals by Platinum Show Apparel available exclusively at Show Me Again. Best of both worlds. Relief from the heat and budget friendly at $398 for the set. Red Paisley Vest by Platinum Show Apparel
Vests returned to the arena in a big way a few years ago, but the show ring enchantment with them hasn’t faltered. In fact, designer creativity appears to be hitting an all-time high because of the versatility of vests.
Shown in the photo (right) is a vest by Silver Lining.
So if you haven’t tried them yet, or if you’re ready to dive in for a fresh look, here are some examples of what you’ll be seeing hit the show pen this fall.
Pictured is a brand new vest by Cachet Cowgirl Collection, available exclusively at Show Me Again. Cachet Cowgirl Collection Motorcycle Vest (pictured right)
Boleros
Bolero style is associated
with a cropped, shorter jacket, and the concept, luckily for us, was applied to the show vest. Boleros lend themselves to highlighting the areas you want and drawing the eye upward, so don’t be wary if you’re unsure they will work for you – trying them on is crucial, so you find the correct length and style.
Shown in the photo is a bolero style vest and shirt by Platinum Show Apparel available for purchase exclusively at Show Me Again. (pictured left)
Bolero Vest by Platinum Show Apparel
Boleros can be classy with neutral bases and subtle design, edgy with color and creative elements, or sassy with fringe and details like conchos and rawhide. Boleros offer another feature, too – they can be matched to a horsemanship and worn over the top for pleasure for a fuss-free western day at the show. The possibilities are endless.
Shown in the photo is a coordinating horsemanship top and bolero style vest by Silver Lining. (pictured right)
Symmetry
Nothing beats balance and symmetry, the latest look in show ring attire. Vests offer a terrific canvas upon which to display symmetry since it’s a look on your upper body. Keeping your shoulders and torso balanced while you’re in the saddle is priceless, and a well-fitted vest does it like no other. Some of our favorite symmetrical designs are pictured here.
Shown in the photo is a symmetrical style vest by Diane Olsen (pictured left) available for purchase through Show Me Again.
Color
While black is still the most popular base for most amateurs, a vest allows you to add colorful accents to that base, or you can experiment with a color you like by choosing a vest in your chosen color. More importantly, the color is on the torso where it’s the least distracting since your movement will be most subtle there. Furthermore, you’ll have the ability to highlight various colors in your vest by swapping shirts underneath and playing with the type of shirt. You can additionally choose a shirt underneath that has been customized to match, or a shirt with accents on cuffs and collar, or a plain zip or button front shirt. Vests are a safe way to play and experiment with color.
Pictured right is a pre-owned vest with coordinating shirt by Kevin Garcia available for purchase through Show Me Again.
Fringe
Fringe: you may love it or hate it, but if you haven’t tried it on a vest, you might be missing out. One of our favorite looks is leather or beaded fringe at the bottom of a vest. Depending on your vest, it can be playful, or it can add a touch of femininity. What we also love about fringe at the bottom is the coverage it provides disguised as a fashionable accent. We’ve even seen removable fringe, the best of both worlds.
Shown in the photo (left) is a vest by Trudy Black Label sold through Show Me Again.
Vaquero Style
When ranch classes became one of the fastest growing disciplines at the shows and western style appeared on the runways, a nod to our western heritage appeared in jackets and vests. Western shapes, elements and findings like conchos, rawhide, fancy stitching add touches that allow us to celebrate the look of the West without overwhelming a sophisticated look. Vests are the perfect place to recognize and honor our western beginnings.
Shown in the photo (right) is a Vaquero Style vest. Photo credit Ali Grusha Photography.
Budget Friendly
Show Me Again has seen a very high demand for the new Lycra shirts available at their online store because they are more comfortable, wrinkle free and cooler than cotton shirts, as well as available in a variety of fun colors. Those who wish to experiment with colors can do so inexpensively by trying out a Lycra or cotton shirt. These shirts can be worn by themselves or under vests.
Another recent development includes the “BYOB” (Bring Your Own Bling) vests. These are becoming popular amongst those who are boycotting the dripping crystal craze, or those who want to express their creativity by decorating their vests. Show Me Again has just added several new patterns in these affordable vests by Platinum Show Apparel. For as little as $389, you can have a stylish, casual brand new vest and shirt for a weekend show, rainy day or when it’s just too sweltering hot to bring out your heavily embellished show clothes. Another bonus: both shirt and vest are machine washable and made in the USA.
Pictured ((avove and right) is a Platinum Show Apparel vest with two different colored shirts, which dramatically changes the overall look of the outfit. Vest and shirts available exclusively at Show Me Again.
BYOB Vest by Platinum Show Apparel
Ready to try a vest? At Show Me Again we always have a terrific selection of brand new and pre-owned consignment vests for your shopping convenience for all sizes and budgets.
You may also shop for brand new vests and shirts at our showroom during High Roller Reining Classic 2017 at South Point in Las Vegas September 8-16, or at Arizona Fall Championship at WestWorld of Scottsdale September 19-24, 2017, or you can “Try Before You Buy” at www.showmeagain.com.
