Style bible Vogue magazine goes horsey this month, featuring two striking photographs of models in hunting dress.
In one shot by photographer Tim Walker, a model is seen gliding her flying saucer over a fence accompanied by hounds and hunt followers.
The other, by Mario Testino, shows model Stella Tennant swathed in tweed, surrounded by
male models in hunting dress.
The idea came from Vogue fashion director Kate Phelan. She said: “The British heritage of the countryside crops up on a regular basis on the catwalk, whether it’s tweeds or tartans. We felt this was quite a strong look for the season.”
Members of the West Percy, Tynedale and College Valley/North Northumberland hunts were used as “extras”.
West Percy huntsman George Trotter said: “It was good fun. Five of us had to jump as close as we could to this girl sitting in a flying saucer. My horse didn’t bat an eyelid, but there were a couple of point-to-pointers who weren’t too sure!”
Director of the Masters of Foxhounds Association Alastair Jackson said: “I haven’t seen the images, but Vogue can’t be far wrong with the recipe of pretty girls, bold hounds and hunt uniforms. I can’t possibly comment on flying saucers!”
And, confirming that Vogue is right “on trend”, Osprey London has released its Saddlery range of handbags, including the Goodwood, the St Leger, the Hickstead and the Maiden.
Managing director Graeme Ellisdon said: “I often use traditional saddlery techniques on bags, so it seemed only right to use names that reflect our equestrian heritage.”
This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (24 September, ’09)
