The excitement of the Morgan Grand National is always amplified when it comes time to showcase not just the horses, but the fashion-forward riders as well. What makes this year’s People’s Choice Best Dressed Hunt Riders competition even more special is that it’s completely selected by the people, for the people. At Alden Customs, all we do is count the ballots and share the wonderful feedback from the voters, alongside our own professional insight into the details that make these outfits exceptional.
We’re especially thrilled to be back this year after taking a break from the competition last year, and the response from the community has been nothing short of amazing. It’s heartwarming each year to see riders of all ages and divisions, from across the country, nominated for their style—regardless of how they placed in the show itself. This speaks volumes about the kindness, support, and inclusivity that this Morgan horse community fosters. We’re continually moved by the outpouring of enthusiasm and positivity surrounding the competition.
This year, we saw an exciting shift in trends, with riders stepping away from bold jewel tones, brocades, and jacquards in favor of earthy, colonial-inspired palettes and traditional suiting patterns, predominantly plaids and silk/wool blends. The results were nothing short of stunning!
Additionally, we introduced a new layer to our competition by adding a compliments section to the voting process. While it might have felt like just another box to tick for some, I was delighted to see how it blossomed into something truly meaningful—a tool for building connection and celebrating one another. In the heart of Oklahoma, it’s easy to get wrapped up in our rides, focused on how hard we’ve worked, how badly we want to win, and how much we hope our barn mates succeed. But beyond that immediate drive, we’re all part of something larger—a community of thousands of Morgan horse enthusiasts who share the same passion, the same dreams.
Though not everyone can take home a blue ribbon, every one of us is united by the shared love of horses, the thrill of competition, and the camaraderie that comes from gathering in Oklahoma City each year. This competition, and the kind words exchanged through the compliments, reminded me that while we may be competitors in the ring, we are all part of a family outside of it—a family filled with inspirational stories in every barn aisle, friendships waiting to be formed, and a deep, collective dream we all hold. That’s what makes this community so special and why, no matter the outcome, we all leave Oklahoma with something more than just ribbons—we leave with memories and the joy of sharing our journey with others who understand it so well. We were thrilled to see over 337 votes pour in to help us crown this year’s top 10 best-dressed riders.
As we reflect on the warmth of our community, it feels right to also take a moment to honor the historic Jim Norick Arena at the State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma—a venue that has crowned the best of the best in the Morgan breed, and beyond, since 1965. With its impending demolition later this year, and our beloved competition moving to a brand-new arena in 2025, we can't help but pause to acknowledge the countless memories made within those iconic walls. While it may seem a little unusual to express gratitude to a building, the Jim Norick Arena has been more than just brick and mortar—it has been the backdrop to so many magical moments, friendships forged, and dreams realized. As we prepare to close this chapter and step into a new era, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the arena for housing decades of our shared history. Now, without further ado, it’s time to celebrate the winners who made this year unforgettable!
10. D’Anne Hayman & Take The Crown GCH
D'Anne Hayman and Take The Crown GCH are no strangers to the winner's circle, and their presence in our Best Dressed competition is no surprise. This duo radiates class and elegance with D'Anne’s choice of a garnet red hunt coat that combines subtle geometric patterns with just a touch of sheen. The fabric provides depth without being overwhelming, offering the perfect balance of sophistication.
D'Anne’s ensemble is a textbook example of the "Rule of 4's" in menswear—where the entire outfit is limited to four cohesive colors: red, white, black, and silver jewelry accents. This approach ensures the look is intentional and polished, with every detail, down to the lapel pin, thoughtfully considered. Her choice of colors complements her bay horse beautifully, enhancing the red undertones of his coat to create a seamless, harmonious picture. It’s no surprise that she secured a spot in the top ten with this refined look. Voters were especially drawn to her unique checkerboard shirt collar, which added a distinctive modern touch, elevating the overall elegance of her outfit.
One voter shared their admiration for D'Anne, writing, "Year after year, I've been in awe of D'Anne and Take The Crown. They navigate the ring with such effortless grace, and there's an undeniable sense that they genuinely enjoy every moment. 'Polished' is the word that comes to mind—everything about them, from helmet to hoof, reflects the utmost care and attention to detail." This glowing endorsement perfectly captures the precision and elegance D'Anne brings to every ride, making her a standout both in and out of the competition ring.
Get this look! These garnet red and deep wine plaids offer a rich depth with varying levels of sheen, providing just the right amount of "wow-factor." They allow for endless options when pairing with a shirt or dickie, creating a unique and eye-catching ensemble that stands out in any ring.
9. Amberleigh Payne & RWF Paganini GCH
Amberleigh Payne embraced classic equestrian style with a modern twist. Her powder blue satin jacket was a true standout, beautifully complementing her fair complexion. Subtle accents such as the pearlescent buttons on her dickie, a traditional monogram in matching thread, and rolled piping down the lapel showcased tasteful restraint, allowing the jacket to take center stage. The contrast between her horse’s dark coat and the cool hue of her jacket created a polished, refined look. While many riders aim to be bold and stand out in the ring, Amberleigh made a deliberate choice to embrace tradition with her palette of fawn breeches, black boots, cap, and gloves. Her thoughtful accent choices—right down to her matching silver and aquamarine stone earrings—demonstrated how subtlety can make a significant impact. As they say, fashion is about balance and subtlety—it's not about how much you add, but how wisely you choose to enhance.
Adding a touch of MGN magic, one voter shared a heartwarming note about Amberleigh and her mount, Logan (RWF Paganini GCH). The pair has been together since their walk/trot days, and now, years later, Logan—at the impressive age of 18—continues to carry Amberleigh to victory passes on the grandest stage of all. The enduring bond between rider and horse, formed over many years of dedication, feels like the cherry on top of their success. This story is a beautiful reminder of the deeper connections and lifelong friendships that make our Morgan horse community so special. It’s more than just winning ribbons—it’s about the journey we share with our horses and each other.
Get this look! These powder blue fabrics, with their varying levels of sheen and texture, are timeless classics that add a subtle touch of allure and sophistication.
8. Leesa Clark & MJY’s Exquisite Design
The 2024 voters were captivated by Leesa Clark’s stunning mint brocade hunt coat. This expertly chosen fabric not only flattered her fair complexion but also perfectly complemented her horse’s rich chestnut coat, creating a harmonious and eye-catching contrast. Leesa’s attention to detail was evident in every aspect of her ensemble, with subtle accents like the 3/4 piping on the jacket's collar and a rhinestone-trimmed ratcatcher shirt collar adding just the right amount of sparkle without overpowering the look. The unexpected choice of navy breeches introduced a modern twist, skillfully balancing the traditional elegance of her outfit with a fresh, contemporary flair. This thoughtful combination of colors and textures made Leesa’s look both sophisticated and memorable, securing her a well-deserved spot among the top competitors.
One voter shared their thoughts, writing, "During Leesa’s class, I found myself constantly drawn to her and her horse. No matter how much I tried to take in the entire class, my attention kept returning to them. Leesa just had a presence that stood out—her polished riding and carefully chosen outfit set her apart, making her a clear standout amidst the competition."
Get this look! Mint, sage, sea foam—oh my! These textured and brocade pale green fabrics, with varying levels of sheen and impact, range from classic to fantastic. They offer versatile options for those who favor bold, statement-making accents as well as those who believe in the elegance of simplicity.
7. Alyssa Erskine & MLB Stage Door Johnny GCH
Alyssa Erskine’s outfit was the embodiment of modern sophistication. Her aubergine paisley brocade hunt coat was nothing short of striking, with its sleek, high-sheen fabric adding the perfect glow under the arena lights. The deep, rich purple tone complemented her complexion flawlessly, while the intricate paisley pattern brought a touch of regal elegance. Paired with classic black breeches and gloves, Alyssa’s look was a masterclass in balancing the trendy with the timeless. The contrast between the bold jacket and her understated accessories allowed her ensemble to shine without feeling overpowering, highlighting Alyssa’s impeccable sense of style.
One voter perfectly captured the sentiment of many, sharing, “While I don’t personally know Alyssa, I find myself on the edge of my seat every year to see what she’s going to wear. Every outfit she has is outstanding, and how I wish I could raid her closet. She’s just COOL—not only in her rides but also in her fashion sense.” Alyssa’s polished presence and fashion-forward choices continue to inspire admiration, both in and out of the ring.
Get this look! These purple-toned brocade fabrics, ranging from deep plum to lilac, feature glossy, raised textures that are truly striking. The darker shades pair beautifully with black breeches, much like Alyssa's ensemble, while the lighter tones offer a fresh opportunity to experiment with something different, such as gray or even slate blue breeches, for a distinctive and elegant look.
6. Kelsey Lee & LedyardsThreeDaysGrace
Kelsey Lee’s silk/wool blended hunt coat, an Alden Customs creation, truly turned heads this year, and we’re incredibly flattered that voters appreciated the design. We absolutely adore silk/wool blends for their versatility—the wool provides the structure needed to tailor clean lines and maintain the jacket’s shape, while the silk adds a fantastic sheen that is effortlessly eye-catching. The subtle sheen of the fabric catches the light beautifully, giving Kelsey a refined yet striking presence in the ring. The tailored fit of the jacket highlighted her polished, professional look, while the carefully selected buttons and dickie, made from the same materials, created a perfectly cohesive ensemble. One often-overlooked advantage of choosing a more traditional or understated jacket fabric, like Kelsey's, is that it allows for playful and eye-catching accent choices—something Kelsey executed flawlessly. Paired with classic beige breeches and black gloves, her outfit honored tradition while also ensuring Kelsey stood out in the most sophisticated way. We are so honored that voters loved this Alden Customs design!
Kelsey and her mount, Gracie, were an impressive and formidable team in the ring. One admirer shared, "Kelsey somehow managed to showcase her incredible skill as a quiet and confident rider, effortlessly navigating her horse around the ring while making it clear that she was working hard behind the scenes. This is the mark of a truly phenomenal equestrian athlete. The strength it takes to guide a horse that needs more direction, while making it appear effortless, is something I strive for in my own rides." This combination of elegance, skill, and control is what makes Kelsey a standout both in fashion and as a rider.
Get this look! These selected fabrics in gray, slate, and silver tones offer a rich sheen while emphasizing fabric content that provides the perfect structure for a well-tailored garment. They can be paired with traditional fawn breeches for a classic look or black breeches for riders seeking a moodier, more dramatic style.
5. Hannah Harmon & EKL Super Elegant
Hannah Harmon perfectly embodied the new trends we're seeing with her embrace of earthy tones, opting for a stunning rust-colored jacket that was both eye-catching and refined. The fabric, though smooth in texture, had a fantastic sheen that highlighted her olive complexion, while the warm hue beautifully complemented the copper undertones of her horse’s bay coat. Paired with classic black breeches, a hunt cap, gloves, boots, and a crisp white shirt, Hannah’s outfit struck the ideal balance between standing out and maintaining understated elegance. The lighter tone of the jacket allowed her to shine without being overly bold or flashy.
What truly stood out was Hannah’s thoughtful restraint in her choice of accessories, letting the rich tones of her jacket take center stage. While I’m normally not a fan of lapel brooches as they can easily step into “too much” territory, Hannah’s restraint in every other aspect of her outfit allowed this touch of flair to shine. The brooch added just the right amount of glittering sparkle, with a size suitable for catching the eye without overwhelming the look—and we love it!
In addition to her well-curated ensemble, Hannah’s makeup was flawless. She opted for a natural, understated look with autumnal and neutral shades that only highlighted her natural beauty. Her makeup was perfectly chosen, showing just how much attention she paid to every detail. Something as simple as makeup can make or break an entire outfit, and Hannah absolutely nailed it, tying the whole look together seamlessly.
We also have to give credit where it’s due—Hannah’s decision to prioritize safety by opting for protective headgear was commendable. It’s not just about wearing a helmet, but ensuring it fits properly, and Hannah nailed it. Her helmet was perfectly fitted and seamlessly integrated into her polished look, proving that safety and style can go hand in hand. Hannah’s ensemble is a masterclass in how to blend modern color trends with the timeless elegance that the show ring demands, making her both a fashion and equestrian standout.
Get this look! These fabrics we’ve selected are some of our absolute favorites—rich shades of rust, copper, and burnt orange, perfect for our autumn queens. With varying textures and levels of sheen, each one offers a standout option for anyone looking to channel a bit of Hannah’s stylish flair. Whether you prefer a subtle glow or a bold, eye-catching finish, these fabrics are sure to elevate your look and make a lasting impression in the ring!
4. Lauren Rekis & Mendon Twist of Fate GCH
Lauren Rekis, you never disappoint with your outfit choices, and it’s clear the voters felt the same, earning you a well-deserved spot among the top ten best-dressed riders. The stunning combination of sage and peach in your ensemble is a testament to your keen understanding of the color wheel, showing how opposite colors can complement each other to perfection. The expert selection made your jacket the standout piece, showcasing a harmonious balance between boldness and sophistication. Every detail was intentional, from the sage green buttons contrasting against the peach plaid fabric to the thoughtfully chosen sage top collar, accented with white piping that beautifully tied into the light plaid pattern.
The soft, earthy tones not only highlighted your outfit but also perfectly complemented your liver chestnut horse’s coat. The peachy warmth of the jacket paired flawlessly with the rich, dark tones of your horse, creating a beautifully harmonious overall picture.
The attention to detail continued with your shirt pairing, where the sage from your top collar was mirrored in the collar of your ratcatcher shirt, bringing cohesiveness to the entire ensemble. This is yet another example of how you skillfully elevate a traditional suiting pattern while leaning into the “Rule of 4’s” with your careful choices of peach, sage, ivory, and black. Paired with classic fawn breeches, black boots, cap, and gloves, the result is a polished, yet striking look.
Lauren is also a prime example of a rider who used makeup to seamlessly complement her outfit. The peachy tones in her makeup mirrored those in her jacket and perfectly complemented her olive skin, highlighting her natural beauty without being overpowering. Her outfit perfectly embodied the season’s trend of structured, earthy-toned jackets, offering refined style with a modern twist. Lauren’s sophisticated yet bold ensemble was a clear standout in this year’s competition.
Get this look! These naturally occurring shades of pink, salmon, and peach in classic worsted wool provide the perfect canvas for creativity in your accents. The traditional elegance of the fabric offers timeless sophistication, while giving you the freedom to elevate the rest of your outfit with bold, eye-catching choices. Without the need for brocades or silk sheen, these fabrics allow you to create a standout look through thoughtful styling and accessories.
3. Alyssa Beach & KJM Grandslam GCH
TOP THREE WINNER! 💛🏆
Alyssa Beach’s outfit is another proud Alden Customs design! We're always deeply touched when voters appreciate the garments we’ve worked hard to curate, and Alyssa's ensemble was no exception. Her soft, peachy coral plaid jacket strikes the perfect balance between playful, refined, and feminine. The warm tones of the jacket contrasted beautifully against her horse’s dark coat, creating an eye-catching look, while the tailored fit emphasized Alyssa’s polished and professional appearance. The delicate plaid pattern added an extra layer of sophistication, and pairing it with simple beige breeches ensured the jacket remained the focal point of the ensemble.
One detail we particularly love about Alyssa’s outfit is the clever use of belt piping on the plaid fabric. By rotating the belted section 45 degrees, it creates a flattering "trick of the eye" effect at the natural waist, visually slimming the rider. This demonstrates how great tailoring is often about using materials to their full advantage—whether in fabric content that complements the rider or in intentional design choices that create the perfect shape. Alyssa expertly paired this look with a contrasting white ratcatcher shirt, which featured a collar accented by a center patch in her jacket fabric for a cohesive finish.
Adding a personal touch, Alyssa included a hidden embroidered message beneath her shirt cuff that reads "Enjoy The Ride," a delightful and meaningful reminder that sneaks a peek during her performance. For versatility, Alyssa also selected a second shirt in a deeper cranberry red cotton/satin blend, which perfectly matched the darker shades of the plaid. This shirt, with its subtle sheen and ruby rhinestone trim, added just the right amount of sparkle and flair for a more dramatic look. Alyssa’s outfit masterfully blends femininity with traditional suiting fabrics, showing once again that when you select a fabric without too much sheen or texture, you can have more fun with your accents.
We’re thrilled that this Alden Customs creation garnered so much attention from the voters, and it was clear that every detail was carefully considered to create a standout look!
One voter perfectly summed up the sentiment, writing, "Everything about Alyssa's performances screamed 'fun'! It was evident she was having a blast out there, and her outfit mirrored that same fun energy. It was fresh, unique, and you could tell she enjoyed every last detail. And that's what this is all about, right? Having fun while making intentional and thoughtful choices for a picture-perfect, cohesive look."
Get this look! These pink fabrics, ranging from mauve to peach and coral, provide a perfect canvas for playful accents while maintaining the charm of traditional plaid patterns.
2. Kate Vail & Radiant Superstar
RESERVE BEST DRESSED WINNER! ❤️🏆
Kate Vail, our well-deserved second-place winner, truly lived up to her horse's name as a RADIANT SUPERSTAR in her outfit choices. With many fans singing her praises, it’s clear that Kate’s look made an unforgettable impression. Her choice of traditional cranberry plaid suiting was both eye-catching and a nod to the trend of riders embracing classic colors and patterns. This outfit is a fantastic example of the “Rule of 4’s” in action, showing that simplicity and intentionality can create a standout look.
Kate’s traditional wool suiting was paired perfectly with a satin champagne shirt, adding just the right touch of sheen without overpowering the outfit. The champagne hue not only complemented the cranberry tones of the plaid, but also tied in beautifully with the rest of her ensemble. The black piping, paired with her black top collar, boots, cap, and gloves, created a cohesive and polished finish. The subtle rhinestone sparkle on the shirt collar added just the right amount of understated elegance, giving her look a hint of glamour without overdoing it.
Kate’s thoughtful choice of colors speaks to her understanding of dressing within her color palette. As a true winter, the cool-toned cranberry fabric and champagne accents perfectly complemented her fair complexion, allowing her to glow in the ring. The sleek, tailored design of the jacket, paired with simple beige breeches, created a balanced and elegant look that was both bold and refined. The deep winter tones of her jacket stood out beautifully against her horse’s rich seal bay coat, creating a striking contrast that caught the eye of everyone watching.
The clean lines of Kate’s jacket allowed her to present a polished and timeless picture in the ring, proving once again that she is a rider who knows how to make an impact with every detail. Kate's ensemble was not just a nod to tradition, but a masterclass in blending classic sophistication with modern flair. It's no wonder she captured the attention of so many voters and secured her spot as a top contender in this year's competition.
One voter shared, "Kate truly embodied the essence of a 'pleasurable ride' with her horse. Her radiant smile was contagious as she effortlessly guided her horse around the ring, and her genuine emotion in her placing was so moving that I found myself cheering even louder for her (despite not knowing her personally), regardless of the final pinning. In my book, she was a winner simply for her love for the sport. I am proud to cast my vote for her as the best dressed, because you are never fully dressed without a smile. These are the moments that make the Morgan Grand National so special—pure, unfiltered joy."
Get this look! These red, cranberry, and burgundy plaid fabrics offer options for a variety of color palettes while paying homage to traditional suiting patterns. They provide the perfect foundation for you to have fun with accent choices, adding personality to a timeless look.
1. Amy Embury & SMSE Lois Lane GCH
THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE BEST DRESSED 2024 WINNER! 💙🏆
Amy Embury topped the list this year with an unforgettable ensemble and equally memorable wins, and we couldn't be more flattered to have played a part in bringing her vision to life. Collaborating with such a strong team is always a bit anxiety-inducing, as you want to select a look that complements without overshadowing—allowing both horse and rider to shine as the incredible duo they are. And shine they did, taking countless victory passes this year in Oklahoma.
Amy’s shimmering, robin's egg blue jacket radiated grace and sophistication, making her stand out effortlessly in the ring. The solid blue tone, enhanced by its unique textured sheen, perfectly complemented Amy’s complexion while harmonizing beautifully with her horse’s chestnut coat. Together, they created a cohesive, striking picture that truly captivated the audience.
Since the glittering zircon blue fabric itself was such a showstopper, Amy smartly opted for subtle yet impactful details. The white piping down the lapel and above her pockets not only added a refined touch but also highlighted her mare’s flashy white blaze and stockings, tying the entire look together with elegance and intention. The shirt collar, using a center patch in the same jacket material, added an extra layer of thoughtfulness and cohesion, and the jacket's top collar microsuede is a perfect match to the fabric, but adds a contrast in texture against the jacket's sheen emphasizing her attention to detail.
Paired with beige breeches and classic black boots, cap, and gloves, Amy’s ensemble was the perfect blend of tradition and modern flair. The understated accessories allowed the shimmering jacket to remain the focal point, showcasing her sophisticated style. This team is as flawless as they come, making their spicy mare look as easy as pie—a testament to true athleticism and the epitome of Morgan excellence. We are incredibly honored that voters selected this Alden Customs design as the best-dressed of the year, and we couldn’t be more proud of the outcome!
One voter shared, "I love seeing good things happen to good people, and Amy is no exception. Watching her return to the winner’s circle with her mare, aptly named in honor of her late mount, is truly inspiring. It shows that someone like Amy, with the heart of a phoenix, can rise from the ashes of loss and rediscover joy. This moment reminds me of the deep love and commitment we all share for these incredible animals, and how privileged we are to cherish them every second we have with them, never taking a moment for granted." And we at Alden Customs couldn't agree more with that sentiment.
Get this look! These shimmering blue fabrics are perfect for creating a show-stopping look that’s sure to turn heads.
The riders who made the top ten this year truly exemplified the perfect balance between bold style choices and traditional elements, creating polished, cohesive looks that captivated both the judges and the crowd. We were especially honored to see so many Alden Customs designs among the top entries, and we are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of the incredible Morgan horse community.
To our top three winners — please DM or email me your mailing address so we can send out your well-deserved gift certificates. We look forward to celebrating with you!
We also want to extend a special thank you to the talented photographers from The Morgan Horse Magazine whose stunning images we’ve featured throughout this competition. Their tireless work capturing the magic, joy, and unforgettable moments of the show, regardless of placing, is invaluable to all of us who cherish these memories. They work long days, often without recognition, and their dedication ensures that our beloved horses and riders are captured in their finest moments.
As we close out another year of this exciting competition, we want to say a heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and voters! Whether it’s the eye-catching colors, the timeless elegance, or the unique details that made these outfits stand out, the fashion in the ring this year was nothing short of spectacular. We’re already looking forward to seeing what next year’s competitors bring to the stage—thank you for continuing to inspire us all.
See you in the ring next year!
Bethea Alden Phelan
Alden Customs Owner
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