Horses + Handbags

Updated: Jan 15, 2021

Living in Alberta and working with leather has introduced to me to a whole new world of horse-related knowledge. I don't own or ride horses myself, but I've made my fair share of visits to horse + tack stores. I am usually seeking out some type of speciality cleaner or conditioner. But while I'm there, of course I'm going to have a look around at what else is for sale. The craft and detail that go into saddles is absolutely amazing, and I love seeing all those aspects come together in these beautiful pieces. Another feature you'll find in a tack shop is a whole pile of hardware. This hardware is wonderfully heavy, and the unique shapes that are needed for different harness and rope applications are mesmerizing. I've found great inspiration in these bins of equestrian hardware and rows of saddles, and I'm definitely not the only one. Because of their shared history in leatherwork, horses and fashion are intrinsically linked. I've compiled a few examples of beautiful equestrian-inspired pieces below.