by Cyndi Rowat

When Russian immigrant Morris Shumiatcher pioneered the Smithbilt Hat Company in Calgary in 1919 little could he have known what the world would be like in 2007.

In those early days, hats were something people needed to keep the sun off their brow and the rain off their head. Today, the cowboy hat is a symbol that affirms a tradition, a style, and a way of life.
continue reading "Smithbilt; Hat of the New West"

Alyssa Baker (right) shows off her beautiful new spring blanket from SS Chaps.

Alyssa is the happy winner of the Horses All new subscriber draw. Her new mare will soon be showing off the blanket, too!

Congratulations Alyssa, from all of us at HORSES ALL!

Western

Exciting new Western fashion trends have emerged from underneath the frozen layer of winter. Denim designers have reported that dark denim is on the rise. Dark stonewash jeans provide a cleaner more classic look. A classy medium stonewash with light hand sanding is sure to stand out in the arena; perfect for any horsewoman.

Rumour also has it that jean rises are beginning to go up, up, up, allowing you to sit comfortably in any saddle. The flare leg has gone into hiding this season making way for the straight leg jean. This straighter boot cut leg can fashionably and functionally accommodate any type of boot.

Don’t get left behind in winter’s last season styles, freshen up your denim collection with darker washes and straighter legs.
continue reading "Focus on Fashion 2007 (Western & English)"

The Calgary Stampede crowned the 2007 Royal Trio during the afternoon performance of Rodeo Royal on April 22.

The 2006 Royal Trio, Queen Cheryl Dafoe and Princesses April Kanderka and Terri Murray, handed over their crowns to Queen Amanda Kochan and Princesses Amanda Byrne and Caia Morstad.
continue reading "Calgary Stampede Crowns 2007 Royal Trio"

Judges appreciate exhibitors who present cutting-edge performances packaged with attractive and trendy tack and apparel, so now’s the time to evaluate your show apparel wardrobe for possible upgrades or replacement.

Colour is back … and in a big way. Years of black, black, and more black are giving way to a full spectrum of colour in eye-catching patterns and designs. While some riders opt for an overall colour theme with tops, chaps, pants, and boots all of a hue, others are keeping their black or sand chaps, but being positively provocative in pairing these perennials with unpredictable tops: think turquoise with sand, black with purple, chocolate with metallic gold.
continue reading "Fashion Forecast 2006"