Former glamour model Jordan, these days better known as Katie Price, launched her own horse and rider clothing range in association with Derby House in March 2008. Her KP Equestrian range caters for horses and their riders, while KP Pony provides clothing and accessories for children. Horse couture includes items like diamante leather bridles and head collars, horse rugs, cooler rugs, fly rugs and rain sheets in fleece, cotton or velour; and fleece leg bandages and matching saddle blankets, mostly in Price’s favourite lipstick pink, with a liberal sprinkling of diamante. In 2010 her agreement with Derby House ended and KP Equestrian went on sale in outlets worldwide.
Too ‘Chavvy’
Although Price was banned from the 2008 Cartier International Polo contest for being ‘too chavvy’, she was determined to bring glamour to the equestrian world. And despite criticism from the more traditional members of the horse-riding set, KP Equestrian has grown into a multi-million pound business. The rider range includes basics like t-shirts, vests, jackets and hoodies, as well as more traditional items like gilets, jodhpurs and breeches, in cobalt blue, lime, yellow, navy and, of course, lipstick pink. While some items come in more traditional materials, the range has items made of stretch denim and velour.
The KP Equestrian collection is designed to be both decorative and functional. The bridles and head collars are serviceable, with a splash of colour, sparkle and bling added for effect, without a too-hefty price tag. The range includes a variety of rugs and blankets, mostly in pink and, again, they’re practical and colourful, with prices starting from £35 for a pink polar fleece cooler rug.
A Break From Tradition
Although few users and reviewers find fault with the construction and functionality of KP Equestrian’s horse-focused range, many are critical of the style. Traditionally, accessories and gear for horses is available in conservative, muted tones and this is precisely what Price is trying to counteract with her range. However, fans of her range who take part in activities like dressage competitions, where the rider’s grooming and presentation is expected to be of a certain standard, may find judges who prefer a more traditional approach to the sport. The clothing range has also been criticised by riders, with some saying that the collection is too ritzy and princess-like, while others feel it’s downright slutty and not for the intelligent and knowledgeable rider.
Colour Matching Outfits & Accessories
Katie Price admits that she is obsessed with matching clothing and accessories, from her underwear to her handbag, and the colours available across the range makes it easy for horse and rider to match. Those who find the ‘girly’ aspect of the range appealing can choose from a variety of lipstick pink items like t-shirts, vests, jackets, gilets, hoodies and tracksuits, in velour, cotton and blends with glass buttons and diamante detail, to complement their horses’ lipstick, pink leg bandages and saddle blankets, with the diamante motif echoed in the horses’ studded headgear.
While KP Equestrian may not be for everyone, the range has certainly proven very popular, with this division of the company showing steady profit and growth since the collection was launched.
Article given to us by Equifeast
