SHOPPING
Savvy
shopping Here trend are five will b s that shopp ing we b e tak eliev ing o by s u torm r ind e u this year stry ...
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Buying local
“Hyper-locality” is big news this summer. Products sold based on seasonality and availability creates uniqueness and increased “shopper desire” to get something now, while it is available. Some companies are reportedly even meeting a client in-store, and then delivering items to them the same day. (Currently the nearest that most equestrian stores come to this business model is multiple-weekly deliveries to a designated area, carrying items like feed and bedding; although it is possible that a personal delivery service could be a useful “unique selling point” utilised by more enterprising retailers.) Hyper-locality is a great way to support local, small and medium-sized producers, and farmers’ markets are the obvious example.
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Matchy matchy
Yes, colour-coordinating saddle cloths, head-collars, bandages, ear bonnets and protective boots for horses and ponies are definitely still popular! Originally all the rage with young people, coordinating your look is now extremely popular with adult horse owners too. If it also makes us feel more confident and happier in our riding, then why not?
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Feeling fashionable
Summer fashion in 2018 is set to embrace tweed patterns, tassels, sequins and primary colours
within its ranges. But if you aren’t one for changing your look regularly at the whim of fashion trends, why not look to accessories to update your style? Tassled handbags, sparkly evening shoes and bold, statement scarves will definitely help you look the part, with a knowing nod to current trends.
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Customisation of riding wear
Do you want Ostrich-leathertopped riding boots, a diamante riding hat or a hand-embroidered cantle on your saddle? Many brands are offering this option now, and it is a lovely way to add your own style to items that are predominantly similar in their appearance.
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Alfresco activities
Despite our chilly spring, the Great British Summer is set to be very nice for us, meaning many of us will be spending lots of time outside. So a big trend for summer 2018 is set to be the sales of garden furniture, barbecues and garden accessories! Outdoor entertaining will see many of us move the entertaining of friends and family outside, with dedicated areas for comfy furniture, fire pits and barbecues. This set-up can easily work for livery yards, offering horse owners the chance to unwind and spend quality time together, perhaps with a drink from the fridge in a comfy chair.
SHOPPING – Your Horse & Country Magazine SUMMER 2018 | 29 YHC18 Summer 124 Pages.indd 29
22/05/2018 18:30