03/02/2026
Great article and something people who either judge or ride should really be aware of when riding in a topper.
🎩 TOP HAT TUESDAY 🎩
While there aren’t many places in Australia that still allow the wearing of a top hat (also referred to as a silk hat) when riding side saddle for those that do, here are my top tips to getting it right 👌
A top hat for side saddle should:
- Measure between 120mm and 133mm, depending on the height of the wearer. No short “dressage style” top hats.
- Sit central on the head just above the eyebrows, resting on the bun with the brim parallel to the ground.
- Be worn with a black veil that is firm fitting to the face (not loose) and secured around your bun.
- Extra tip: If you have long and/or thick hair that creates a bun that's too large and effects the way your top hat sits, tie half of your hair up on the top of your head and conceal it under your hat. A large bun detracts from a polished look.
✨ Height matters: the height of the hat is crucial to the overall balanced picture of the rider. A hat that is too tall for the wearer can look top heavy and unbalanced while a hat that is too short is incorrect and can make the rider’s upper body appear almost stunted. Try a few heights to find the one that gives you the best, overall most balanced picture.
✨ Brim width: many non-riding or costume top hats have brims that are too wide for the face. This detracts from the overall picture and throws off the elongated, elegant silhouette of the rider.
And remember… top/silk hat = after midday (generally - this can be flexible for more prestigious shows), black or navy habit, stock tie and double reins. If before midday or using a snaffle = bowler, collared shirt and tie ✔️✔️
Classic, correct and creating a beautifully balanced picture of elegance 💫
Please feel free to share but remember to give credit where credit is due! 💚
