Bay Horses (reddish-brown body, black mane/tail)

• Best Rider Outfit Colors: Hunter green, navy, burgundy, cream, tan
• For a Pop: Teal, mustard, royal blue
• Avoid: Reds that clash with the coat

Black Horses

• Best Rider Outfit Colors: Emerald, crimson, sapphire, lavender, white, silver
• For a Pop: Bright jewel tones, metallic accents
• Avoid: Solid black (horse + rider blend together unless adding texture/accessories)

Chestnut Horses (reddish coat, mane/tail same shade)

• Best Rider Outfit Colors: Olive green, navy, cream, beige
• For a Pop: Turquoise, teal, cobalt blue
• Avoid: Bright red/orange (they’ll clash with the coat’s warmth)

Gray Horses

Best Rider Outfit Colors: Deep jewel tones (purple, emerald, ruby), navy

For a Soft Look: Blush, lavender, baby blue

For a Rustic Look: Olive, camel, rust

Avoid: Pale grays/whites that blend into the horse

Palomino Horses (golden body, white mane/tail)

• Best Rider Outfit Colors: Royal blue, emerald, burgundy, cream
• For a Pop: Coral, hot pink, teal
• Avoid: Yellows that blend with the coat

Buckskin Horses (golden/tan body, black mane/tail)

• Best Rider Outfit Colors: Red, turquoise, forest green, mustard, chocolate brown
• For a Pop: Black + gold combo
• Avoid: Beige/tan close to coat color

Pinto/Paint Horses

• Best Rider Outfit Colors: Choose colors that match one of the coat’s base shades (like navy with bay spots, or emerald with black spots)
• For a Pop: Teal, burgundy, mustard
• Avoid: Busy patterns (horse’s coat is already patterned)

White, Cremello, Perlino Horses

Best Rider Outfit Colors: Bold jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby)

For Soft Look: Blush, lavender, pale blue

Avoid: All-white (you’ll blend into the horse)

Let's talk about body types!

Every rider’s body is unique, and that’s something to celebrate! Different shapes and sizes shine in different ways, and choosing the right outfit can make you feel confident, comfortable, and radiant in front of the camera. A well-chosen top, jacket, or layered look can highlight your favorite features, create balance, and enhance your natural lines, while still keeping your style and personality at the forefront. No matter your body type, the goal is to feel beautiful and empowered, and the perfect outfit can make a real difference in how you carry yourself during your session.

Body Type Considerations

Hourglass:

Tucked-in tops or belts highlight the waist.

V-necks and wrap styles emphasize curves elegantly.

Rectangle / Athletic:

Layered tops and structured jackets add dimension.

Patterns or textured fabrics can create curves.

Pear-Shaped:

Darker pants/jeans with lighter or jewel-tone tops draw attention upward.

A-line skirts or tunics flow nicely over hips.

Apple-Shaped:

Tops that skim the midsection or have ruching hide the waist while highlighting shoulders.

V-necklines elongate the upper body.

Rider Styling Options

Shirts / Tops

Fitted Button-Downs / Blouses:

Elegant and classic. Works well tucked in for a polished look.

Great for all body types; creates clean lines.

Fabrics: cotton, silk, or lightweight linen for airy photos.

Fitted Sweaters / Knit Tops:

Soft textures photograph beautifully; perfect for autumn/winter sessions.

Slim-fitting styles elongate the torso; slightly oversized styles work for relaxed, cozy shots.

Wrap Tops / V-Necks:

Flattering for those with a fuller bust; draws the eye upward.

Creates elegant, flowing lines in motion photos.



Layered Shirts + Jackets:

A well-fitted blazer, vest, or jacket adds sophistication.

Layering works for all body types — gives dimension and depth.

Shirts & Pants / Jeans Coordination

Fitted Dark Jeans + Jewel-Tone Top:

Classic and elegant for fine-art style.

Dark jeans balance bold colors like emerald, sapphire, or ruby.

Neutral Tops + Colorful Bottoms:

Cream, beige, or soft gray tops pair beautifully with patterned or jewel-tone skirts or pants.

Monochromatic Look:

Matching shades (e.g., cream top + tan pants) elongates the body and creates a soft, cohesive image.

Accessory Ideas

Belts: Define the waist, add structure.

Scarves or Neckwear: Adds color without overwhelming the horse or outfit.

Hats / Riding Helmets: Coordinate colors; ensure clean lines in profile shots.