2012 Charleston Cup Steeplechase: what to wear?!

   
     The Charleston Cup is upon us again! This steeplechase is the only race of its caliber held in the low country where many of the best steeplechase athletes in the south come to win! This year is the 19th running of the race and many people come dressed to impress.

     It is a tradition when attending a horse race to dress up and look glamorous! The sport of kings is prestigous and you may even see a king at the race so looking fabulous is essential (just kidding but in Europe it is possible, the Queen of England, Duchess Kate, and Prince William are often attending races and the prince himself even rides in polo matches which is another event to dress up at!)

       It is first important to understand how the race works so you can look pretty and be aware of the race! The steeplechase is a form of horse racing that derives its name from early races in which orientation of the course was by reference to a church steeple. Jumping fences, ditches, and bushes generally make up the course which is on a turf track that requires at least two laps.

    Hats are usually an accessory worn at horse races but certainly not required! Horse racing on the flat, such as the Kentucky Derby, are more outragous with large beautiful hats and designer dresses, but steeplechases are appropriate to wear hats to as well!

    Although we do not carry hats in the store, we can help you pick out a fabulous cocktail dress for the race! Below are some dresses chosen for the race on Sunday that will make you look fashionable and race appropriate! These dresses are all available off the rack for you as well.

      This dress is by Jim Hjelm in the wildly popular peplum style for fall 2012. Paired with pearls is a classic look that is always appropriate in the south. This is a favorite in the store!

     
       Jim Hjelm also designed this color block dress that would be a wonderful addition to your closet for the race as well as for a special occasion! Color block has been a popular look this year and continues to shine.

      
          Another winner by Jim Hjelm has beautiful details on the shoulders and its flowy style is a flattering look on almost any body type!

          
         A second popular peplum look by Jim Hjelm is flying off the shelves in the store. How this dress cinches at the waist is extremely flattering and gives the appearance of a taller woman due to the flare effect of the dress.

           This dress is also by Jim Hjelm (can you tell our obsession for this designer?!) that would be appropriate for this race but may be more comfortable to wear to the Carolina Cup held in March in upstate South Carolina! The exposed shoulders may be too chilly for November but would be perfect for a spring Steeplechase.

  
                This is another store favorite by WTOO that has a delicate lace detail with nude lining. Timeless dress that can be worn multiple times and never gets old. Paired with pearls would be a classic southern belle look ready for the races!

           
                 This dress is by Belsoie and has just been reduced in price! The classic box pleating paired with the trendy cut out back combines perfectly! This dress could be worn at multiple events and would look fabulous paired with a hat.

   
              This dress is on clearance as well! The details on this Dalia dress cannot be ignored! The draping of the fabric is placed perfectly to flatter any body type. The belt cinches the waist and the gray fabric is neutral allowing for many different colors of accessories.

          Lastly, this dress has a metalic sheen that would be great for holiday parties as well! Simone Cavalli designed this dress that is also at a reduced price. Black accessories to match the belt would look chic with this dress.

             Feel free to come try on the dresses in the store and to browse the large selection we did not get to show! The point of dressing up at these events is to have fun with it so know no boundaries! Show your personality and choose to stand out, it will be appreciated I assure you! Keep in mind to possibly bring a scarf, blazer, umbrella, cardigan, or maybe even a jacket for the race. It will run rain or shine, cold or hot so be prepared! Also boots are a great shoe to consider since you will be on your feet often and will be outside rain or shine so you will be more comfortable with a closed toe that will not sink in the grass! (think Steve Madden boots, trendy equestrian boots, wedges, etc.)

   
          Overall, have fun and do not be afraid to show your fashion wild side and watch beautiful horses breeze past you in person, there is nothing quite like it!