There’s something irresistible about equestrian style. Horses—and the connection between horse and rider—have inspired our living spaces since cave-painting days, and though we’ve refined things a bit since then, our devotion to humanity’s hooved companions is undiminished. So, on the occasion of Bridgehampton’s ever-anticipated Hampton Classic equestrian happening, we offer a bit of horse talk.
Someone Who Inspired Us
At the tender age of three, Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor—who in 1952 would be crowned Queen Elizabeth II—rode a horse for the first time. The next year, her grandfather, King George V, gave her a Shetland pony named Peggy (pictured above). Elizabeth’s devotion to life in the saddle means she presides over the UK’s annual Royal Windsor Horse Show, but the keen rider doesn’t let royal duties get in the way of less formal affairs. The Queen, who turned 92 this year, rarely misses an opportunity to ride.
Add It to Your Wish List
Hermès began in 1837 in Paris as a harness and bridle workshop. The luxury line was established to serve French noblemen and still sells everything from stirrups to full dressage. But it’s also become the premier source for equestrian-influenced home decor, from wallpaper inspired by bridle bits to change trays featuring horse races. Above is the $4,500 Double Horse Blanket: Made from sumptuous cashmere and silk, it’s as cozy as it is handsome.
Check It Out
Not only is the Hampton Classic one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the U.S., it also happens to take place in an ideal spot during the perfect season—late August in Bridgehampton. The Classic kicks off on August 26 with show jumping, food, drinks, and a kids’ tent for younger fans. Most visitors arrive mid-morning and stay through mid-afternoon to catch each day’s events, which run through September 2.
Home Goals
Not far from the late Andy Warhol’s splendid Eothen estate in Montauk, 28 Old Montauk Highway is a Nantucket-style home overlooking 14 acres of horse fields. The four-bedroom hideaway’s classic style is complemented by the views of rambling Deep Hollow Ranch and, just over the trees, the Atlantic Ocean. Listen to the surf while relaxing by the pool or say howdy to your hooved neighbors over the fence.
Photos in order of appearance: Parker/Russell-The Book LLC via the Hampton Classic, The Royal Collection Trust, Hermès, Kristen L Gray Photography via The Hampton Classic, The Corcoran Group.