Not only does the Showmanship pattern determine the overall placing, the outfit can also affect the results. “I absolutely believe that your performance, presentation and outfit are all about your personality. Your outfit doesn’t have to be high dollar, but it does have to be neat and unique. Your outfit should represent you,” Trein said. She has seen many exhibitors that have a fairly inexpensive outfit that outshines the rest. A clean outfit that complements the exhibitor’s body and personality will always look the best.
 
One of the most important pieces of any outfit is the hat. The hat should match the outfit, be extremely clean and be professionally creased.
 
“Something I’ve noticed that many exhibitors ignore is the appearance of your hands,” Trein pointed out. “We personally don’t use gloves, so your hands are always visible in the show pen. I’ve noticed a lot of exhibitors do their own work to get their horse ready. They’ll be rushed and won’t take the time to clean up their hands before they go in.  
 
“You don’t have to have fake nails, but that whole hand area needs to look very neat. You lift your hand to show your horse to the judge, so dirt is very visible during your pattern.”
 
Trein also pointed out that makeup and jewelry are part of any female exhibitor’s outfit. Female exhibitors should be aware of their makeup, and try to look pleasant and happy, not overdone. “Have someone you trust look at your makeup before you show!” Trein recommended. The jewelry should also be simple and not overdone. Small pieces show attention to detail without overpowering the exhibitor.
 
For the overall outfit, Trein prefers an outfit that reflects the exhibitor’s personality. “Clothing is all about your personality. You can be extremely conservative and exquisite looking or bold and edgy,” Trein commented. “You also should pay attention to your body size. Black isn’t always the answer. You can slim areas with longer, clean lines that fit you.”
 
Trein has noticed that exhibitors often will try to wear outfits that are similar to what their competitors are wearing. She warned against following someone else’s style. “I think all the Showmanship clothing is a take-off of the current fashions, but your outfit has to fit your body type. You are the one that has to be happy with how your clothes feel and fit, because that will affect your showing. You want your pants to be neatly fitted and at least touching your boot heel. Your boots should be the same color as your pants, so the eye travels to you, not toward your feet.”
 
Other than those tips, the experienced trainer likes her exhibitors to pick out their own outfits. “We have clients that love long, clean, simple lines. They like to be elegant and simple. We also have some girls that want to have the edgiest, newest outfit out there. As long as it’s not too overt and it fits them well, I think it’s great. If the exhibitor is happy with the outfit, their confidence level will be that much higher.”