The horse-girl aesthetic is gaining momentum once again. Inspired by the world of horseback riding, equestrian influences are appearing everywhere—from the stables to Fashion Week. Whether you prefer the cowgirl-chic style embraced by Sydney Sweeney and Tanner Adell, or the polished equestrian looks associated with Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, the trend is set to become a fall favorite as temperatures begin to drop.
Below, we break down everything you need to know about the horse girl aesthetic and how to blend this trend into your wardrobe.
Where did the horse girl aesthetic come from?
Of course, the horse-girl aesthetic is nothing new. Fashion has been in love with equestrian style for decades, with riding-inspired details woven throughout classic preppy wardrobes. More recently, Western fashion has had a major glow-up, thanks in part to Houston icons Megan Thee Stallion and Beyoncé. It has even inspired adorable microtrends like the coastal cowgirl aesthetic, which completely took over our FYPs.
Now that Bella Hadid has fully entered her rodeo era—and even brought her equestrian energy to the streets of New York City — the horse-girl aesthetic is having another major moment, perfectly timed for fall.
Think of that horse-obsessed girl from school who could talk about ponies all day, but with a chic, grown-up makeover. Cozy, polished and just a little playful, the look makes everyday dresses, fitted tops, riding boots and denim feel so much more charming.
What is the horse girl aesthetic?
The horse girl aesthetic is inspired by what you’d see people wear in the stables. On the Northeastern coast, this might lean more preppy, like khakis, knee-high riding boots, and a button-up or polo top with a vest. In the South and Midwest, it’s inspired by cowboy culture with pieces like bootcut jeans, large buckle belts, flannels, embroidered boots, and structured hats. On the West Coast, it might lean a bit more casual with slouchy pants, simple tops, and wide-brim hats. But, regardless of where you live, you can opt into whatever style fits you best.
What hair and makeup fits the horse girl aesthetic?
Inspired by horseback riders, the horse girl aesthetic usually calls for a practical yet effortless hairstyle because it’s probably worn under a helmet or hat. This could be a simple braid, pigtail braids, a slicked-back low bun, or loose wavy hair. The options are endless; just give your hair a bit of a tousle for a messier look that makes it seem like you just finished riding. Similarly, the makeup is low-key but intentional. This might be a red lip for a focal point, smudged eyeliner, or a touch of blush for a sun-kissed look as if you’ve been outside riding all day.
How to get the horse girl aesthetic:
The best place to start when experimenting with a new style is your closet. If you use the pieces you already know and love, you’ll be more likely to see yourself in this aesthetic long term. Try styling your everyday pieces in new ways that fit the look. That might be wearing your flannel with your bootleg jeans and a belt. Or perhaps you’re wearing your favorite mini skirt or a khaki skirt from over the summer with your new high-knee riding boots.
If you don’t have these pieces already, try phoning a friend who’d let you borrow them, or go see if your local thrift store has something similar. Since these are classic wardrobe staples, you might also want to consider investing in a few pieces too. We’ve got you covered. Scroll on to see our favorite horse girl aesthetic clothes.
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