2026 Is the Year of the Horse—and Equestrian Fashion Is on the Rise

This year, we’re all horse girls

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Year of the Horse Equestrian Fashion: Hero Collage
Paula Boudes for PureWow/Shutterstock

According to the Chinese zodiac, 2026 is the year of the Fire Horse. As Chinese astrologer Janine Lowe previously told PureWow, “The Fire Horse, known as Bing Wu, is passionate, dynamic and unstoppable. It fuels movement, courage and innovation, but it can also stir restlessness and dramatic change.” Sounds like it’s arrived just in time.

As the world at large gallops toward this (hopefully) auspicious moment, you can translate that equine energy into your closet. In fact, there’s never been a better time to.

Horse motifs have long been popular on the fashion front, but this year, equestrian style is seriously on the rise. Sleek riding boots, fitted blazers, jeans with built-in chaps. Think: Western Americana meets British heritage—horseback chic hailing from both sides of the pond.

Ready to saddle up? Start with these eight pieces.

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You can’t talk about equestrian fashion without talking about riding boots, so let’s start with these sleek knee-highs by Sam Edelman. They’re made of genuine leather (which buyers describe as “butter soft”) and boast classic details like an asymmetrical curved collar and snap tabs on the shaft. Whether you’re hopping in the saddle or trotting around town on foot, their lightly cushioned footbed and low heel are sure to keep you comfortable.

For a preppy and posh take on the aesthetic, nothing beats a fitted houndstooth blazer, which will work just as well for a trip to the stables as it would a trip to the office. This one boasts a curved, waist-defining silhouette, two buttons and functional flap pockets. Given that reviewers can’t stop raving about the quality, I’d say it’s worth the buy, especially since its timeless style truly transcends the trend.

A little bit country, a lotta bit cozy—it’s no wonder this stallion-emblazoned cardigan has become an instant cult favorite at Anthropologie. “Such a unique and beautiful sweater. Surprisingly versatile, amazing quality. I'm obsessed,” writes one shopper. Its cotton blend knit is said to have some heft to it, so it can totally be used as your outer layer come spring.

Abercrombie & Fitch made waves (dust clouds?) when it partnered with iconic westernwear brand Kemo Sabe for a rodeo-ready collection this past fall, and you can still get your hands on a few prime pieces. Among them are these high-rise bootcut jeans, which feature coated contrast denim made to look like leather chaps. Yeehaw.

Prepare to take the reins by incorporating this Boden belt into all your fits. Finished with a gold-tone snaffle bit straight from the horse’s mouth, it’s crafted from rich, smooth leather and comes in seven colors, ranging from pale tan to a bold emerald. Just note that it’s technically meant to be worn at the waist (so it’s great for high-waisted pants or dresses), but if you’d like to sling it around your hips, size up.

This snap-flap purse puts a modern spin on an old-school saddle bag, with a curved shape and structured design that promises to keep sturdy on your shoulder wherever you roam. The gold hardware accents feel very equestrian adjacent, as does the style in this particular canvas-and-vegan-leather iteration. (And, yes, it’ll fit your iPhone.)

A horseshoe for luck—and luxury. This Swarovski crystal pendant necklace, part of the brand’s limited-edition Year of the Horse collection, puts a glitzy finishing touch on any neck stack. The horseshoe charm has a rose gold tone and is decked out in glittering pavé crystals, while the chain stands out for its unique three-strand design.

The term “stirrup pants” may take you back to the ‘80s, but the style, originally designed for horseback riding in the ‘20s (the 1920s, that is), have been making a quiet comeback in chic circles for months now. Gap’s take on the fashionably functional staple is made from a thick (yet stretchy) Ponte fabric complete with an elasticized, high-rise waist. Whether paired with flats, loafers or tall riding boots, they’re sure to cut a sleek figure that feels both smart and sporty.


stephanie maida

Senior Commerce Editor

  • Oversees PureWow's coverage of sales and deals, celebrity commerce and new launches across categories
  • Has worked as a writer and editor for 10+ years
  • Studied journalism at New York University

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