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What To Wear To The Horse Polo

Is The Polo Taking Over From Horse Racing With The Social Set?
Rozalia Russian

Australian has an undeniable affinity to horse racing. From both the sporting and social perspective it's a long standing tradition that will always be part of our culture.

Though there is evidence that some are boycotting horse racing as a spectator sport after Red Cadeaux was euthanised following The Melbourne Cup race in 2015, and Admire Rakti and Araldo both died in 2014.

Commonly believed to be kinder to horses is equestrian polo. The sport originated as a training method in then Persia (now Iran), though the modern spectator game as we know it was made popular in Manipur, India in the 19th century.

Speaking of spectators, its popularity amongst the social set has flourished in recent years, which begs the question -- is it the new racing?

Polo is not as formal as horse racing but elegance is key for both.

"Because Polo is mainly played during spring and summer is more about light fabrics, full length dresses, jumpsuits, separates and shirts if it's a very casual daytime match," Lucia Arias-Martinez, Fashion Stylist and Creative Director told The Huffington Post Australia.

"At polo matches you will be mainly standing on grass so avoid stilettos and opt for chic wedges, flats or platforms. The appropriate headwear are straw hats or wide brimmed hats. There is not such a thing as fascinators for Polo," Arias-Martinez said.

Men should think pants or tailored shorts, shirts and blazers.

"Think dapper! Chinos, dress pants, tailored shorts or well cut jeans (white ones are popular) paired with shirts or polo shirts and a blazer or sport coat are the most typical choice."

Panama hats are a great accessory and ties and pocket squares are not necessary but a casual matte textured tie or a colourful pocket square could add a nice touch. Like women, shoes must be comfortable so wear brogues or loafers," Arias-Martinez said.

Still in it's infancy, Instagram account @whattoweartothepolo is an easy and quick source for ensemble inspiration.

On Saturday, Melbournians enjoyed the annual Portsea Polo on the Mornington Peninsula.

The event is seen as the ideal time to showcase an array of lifestyle offerings to the social set. Attendees filled a number of corporate tent including the Tempus Two area where they served a range of their wines and offered a bespoke sangria mixed with Tempus Two Copper Tempranillo.

In the Peroni marquee the beer brand debuted their new 'Piccola' 250ml bottle, targeting pre-dinner. Jeep had a range of their vehicles on display.

A hangover cure supplement was also handed out as a branding exercise, but you'd have to ask attendees today if it worked.

The beautiful @annabamford wearing #dionlee as one of the faces of the #jeepportseapolo in the Jeep Marquee today

A photo posted by Jeep Australia (@jeepaustralia) on

Not a bad first day back @jeepaustralia #portseapolo #JeepPortseaPolo #twobirdstalking

A photo posted by Kirsten Clemens (@kirstenclemens_) on

A photo posted by Emia (@emiafashion) on

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