The Art of Piping on Equestrian Jackets
Enhancing Your Silhouette
At Flying Changes, we believe every detail matters. When it comes to our equestrian jackets and tailcoats, the design isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about enhancing the rider’s silhouette in the saddle. Our CEO, Sarah Cheetham, recently shared insights on how we carefully craft our jacket designs to ensure you look and feel your best in the arena.
The Purpose of Piping
You might think the elegant piping on the back of our jackets is simply decorative, but there’s far more to it. Our goal is to create a refined and flattering silhouette for riders, ensuring they present a polished appearance in competition. The strategic placement of piping draws the eye to the natural waistline, enhancing balance and proportion.
Unlike other brands that may mimic the piping trend without understanding its purpose, here at Flying Changes we pioneered the technique with a focus on creating visual harmony. Misplaced piping can visually widen the rider’s frame — a design flaw we’ve consciously avoided.
Watch Our CEO Explain the Design Process
For a closer look at the thought process behind our jacket designs, watch this video from our very own Sarah Cheetham:
Tailored for Every Rider
We understand that every rider’s body shape is unique, which is why we offer tailored patterns for both tailcoats and short jackets. Here’s how our designs work for different profiles:
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For Riders with Shorter Torsos: Our piping lines run from the shoulder down to a higher waistline, creating the illusion of added height. This elongates the torso, providing a graceful, elegant look from behind.
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For Riders with Longer Upper Bodies: A lower waistline and carefully angled piping balance out proportions, ensuring the rider’s frame appears well-balanced in the saddle.
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For Slim, Tall Riders: Curved lines from the shoulder to the waistline add definition and shape, enhancing natural elegance.
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For Fuller Figures: Straighter piping lines provide structure, drawing the eye inward and creating a streamlined effect. This design enhances the natural waistline, offering a refined appearance.
Choosing the Right Style for You
When selecting your next dressage tailcoat or short jacket, consider how different piping designs can enhance your silhouette. At Flying Changes, we’re always here to help you choose the perfect fit. Our team can advise you on the best design to flatter your figure, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable.
Browse our Tailcoat Collection or explore our Short Jackets to find your perfect match. For personalised advice, feel free to get in touch with our expert team.
Let your silhouette shine in the arena with Flying Changes — because every detail counts.
Stay tuned for more insights and expert tips from our CEO, Sarah Cheetham, in next week’s blog!