The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials hosts eighty-five of the world's best three-day eventing athletes, but it is no longer just the three phases of sport that draw the crowds.  Burghley sits nicely in amongst the great British sporting events as one of the top ten most spectated sporting events in the country.  The draw to the first horse inspection on Wednesday afternoon becomes greater each year - is it the edge of the seat tension when something is sent to the holding box?  We think it has a little more to do with who is wearing what this season.

The fashion stakes are high with the eyes of the eventing world on our eventing heroes.  Everyone remembers Michael Jung's zipper failure at Burghley two years ago, just as much as they remember that year's results.  With Hiho Silver adding a prize to the proceedings the pressure is on for the riders to look their best.

We love seeing the latest trends and fashions, we must never forget the actual serious purpose of the trot up. The horse's well being. So although it can be a great way to dress up and showcase, the practical and serious element should always come first. If you’re trying to make a big, excited, fit event horse trot in a straight line at speed, you don’t want to be worrying about your footwear or clothing letting you down!

Andrew Ransford, Hiho’s King of the Road

The developing uniform...

Practicality may be key but predictability is boring.  We're looking for something a little bit different this year to the stand white skinny jeans, Fairfax & Favour Regina or Amira boots and a tailored tweed jacket or cape. This season we're hoping to a hint of variation, whilst also supporting some country favourites.

Looking to sponsor's Joules for some inspiration the Alisandra Light Blue Spot Shirt Dress as a summer flair, femininity and a hint of colour to proceedings.  Cut below the knee we should avoid any Marilyn Monroe moments, whilst the more flowing skirt will allow for plenty of movement.  Paired with some Dubarry Fiji Moccasins Deck Shoes the whole ensemble pays tribute to both the British Summer and long term Burghley sponsors.

Sticking with Joules, the Monroe Skinny Jeans offer superb comfort, durability and eliminate the possibility of a skirt malfunction on the runway.  Paired with a 4* favourite, Holland Cooper Zip Shirt we think this selection could have two totally different looks depending on colour choice.  Pair the Raspberry Jeans (yes we mean the bright pink ones) with the Navy Zip Shirt and a pair of  Fairfax & Favor Navy Athena Ankle Boots for a playful yet chic look.  For a crowning glory the Holland Cooper Panama in Grey/Pink would add a regatta vibe.

For the more classically sophisticated look we'd opt for the Monroe Skinny Jeans in Black, with the Cream Zip Shirt and then Fairfax & Favor's new Kensington boots.  The wrap around buckle and more high street heel gives a slightly edgier look, taking you from country to town.

Attention to detail...

With the eyes of the equestrian world on the 4* trot ups, attention to detail could make or break an outfit.  The right pieces, or pieces of bling can not only add the finishing touches but can also form part of a sentimental journey.  Make the attention to detail something special with a personalised bracelet from HiHo.  Match the beads on a Cherry Roller to your cross-country colours to create a special memento of the event.

Adding personalisation to a belt can also serve as a super souvenir of the 4* achievement.  The Burghley Belt from Mackenzie & George would be an obvious choice.  Fitting and falling perfectly to accentuate all the right places, and hide a multitude of sins the Burghley is cut to curve and fall into a flattering 'V' at the front.  Add a personal touch with initials or a date.

To go the extra mile to stand out from the crowd, a personalised quarter mark with your own personal brand with help your equine partner dazzle the jury as well.  Carry your brand identity with your throughout the competition, but brushing it straight onto the horse.