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Show Clothes - You Can Afford Them

© Lori Hall-McNary

You've decided to take old Annabelle to the local club show next month. The class list seems quite long. Offered is both Western and English equation and pleasure, a couple of breed classes, hunter-hack, novice trail etc. These local rail shows (rail shows are disciplines that ride the rail in some form or another) usually have some type of dress code.

If this is your first show season or your kids, don't rush to buy the latest fashion in the glossy Horse magazines unless you want to eat beans for the next month. Instead call the local horse show coordinator and find out exactly what you and old Annabelle is going to need to compete with the locals.

Next check out the discount racks of your local Western Warehouse type store. Many times last years long sleeved blouse will be half off because it isn't in today's hottest colors. Forget fashion trends; go with what looks good on you and your horse.

Another great place to look for bargains is second hand stores and local horse trader magazine. Often kids chaps, English boots, special show pads, and more have only been used a few times go for well below their wholesale value.

If money is really tight and you're not sure if you really want to show rail this year, then by all means ask your horse friends if can borrow their equipment. Make sure you return it cleaner then it came and your friends will be happy to loan you show stuff.

If you've been saving your lunch money and have some change to spend on a show stopping outfit from lesser known manufactures and stores, then take a look at these sights: Western Show Clothes by Imagination Farm www.imaginationfarm.com/forsale.htm Dixie II since 1914 specializing in name brands boots, jeans and accessories http://www.Imall.com/stores/dixie1 The Show Ring http://lineshack.com/show.htm Champion Choice Buckles www.championchoicebuckles.com

Equipment for yourself and your horse: Equine Sports www.horseboots.com

Need a show bit or a video to brush up on your show discipline? Then take a look at Roundpen, who offer a variety of tack, books and videos from today's leading trainers. www.roundpen.com

No matter where you buy or borrow your show clothes, remember this most important accessory is a smile. Enjoy your show!

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