It is always good to be conservative in the hunter ring. No make-up or jewelry. Dark color coats, light color shirts, and light color breeches are the standard - particularly navy coats and khaki breeches. White or other light color shirts (soft yellow, blues, pinks, etc are fashionable) are great. Avoid wearing dark colored shirts with dark colored coats.
Light color jackets, such as greys and other tweeds are coming back into fashion as well.
"Shadbellies", or tail coats, are reserved for Hunter Classic classes only.
Tall boots (preferably field boots) for any riders over the age of 13. Younger riders should wear jodhpurs, paddock boots, and garter straps.
Hair must be contained within the helmet, preferably with the hair just visible over the ears. Show bows are acceptable, but certainly not well regarded at the higher levels.
Horse's Tack
Whenever possible, stick with brown or dark brown tack. Black tack has gone out of style in the hunter ring (though you will not be penalized for it).
Martingales of any type are not allowed in flat classes. Only standing martingales are allowed over fences.
Flash nosebands, figure 8's, drop nosebands, etc, are not allowed in hunter competitions.
Whenever possible, use a snaffle bit. Gags, elevators, etc are not allowed in the hunter ring. Pelhams, snaffles, and even kimberwicks are, though the kimberwicks have gone out of style.
Close contact saddles are preferred, but not required. Always use fitted fleece pads or wool half-back pads. Square pads are not allowed.
Boots and wraps on the horse's legs are not allowed in hunter competition.
Braiding
Always braid the hunter on the right side of the neck. Braid with yarn that matches the mane color. The braids should be neat and tight, and should lie flat against the neck. Tails may be done in a french braid with a "pinwheel" at the bottom of the tail bone. Tail braiding is not required.
