2026 Morgan Grand National & World Championship People’s Choice Best Dressed Hunt Riders

The votes are in, the fashion verdicts have been delivered, and we're rolling out the red carpet for your favorite looks from Oklahoma City!

A Little Love Letter to the Morgan Horse Family

Every October, the very best of the American Morgan Horse descend upon Oklahoma City for the Grand National & World Championship Horse Show. It's a week of big dreams, bigger emotions, unforgettable performances, and, of course, some pretty fabulous fashion.

But this year felt a little different for me.

For the first time in a while, I had the opportunity to spend a few days in Oklahoma City myself, and goodness, did it fill my cup.

There's something truly magical about experiencing the energy of the Grand National in person. The anticipation at the in-gate, the roar of the crowd, the friendships rekindled along the rail, and those moments when horse and rider step into the ring and everything they've worked toward all year comes together. It's the kind of atmosphere that reminds you exactly why we love these horses and this wonderfully unique little world we've built around them.

I got to cheer for my clients from the stands, celebrate their victories in person, catch up with old friends, make new ones, and finally hug the necks of people I've worked with remotely for years but had never actually met face-to-face. And somewhere between the fitting appointments, the late-night conversations, and the goosebumps-inducing victory passes, I was reminded just how incredibly lucky I am to do what I do.

Something a new client said to me in Oklahoma has stayed with me ever since. She shared that when working with other clothiers, she'd sometimes felt like she was just another number, another sale.

And I have to tell you, that absolutely stopped me in my tracks. Because that concept is so completely foreign to the way I see my work.

When you trust me to create something for you, I'm not just making a coat. I'm becoming a tiny part of your story. I'm learning about your horse, your goals, your personality, your insecurities, and the things that make you feel like the very best version of yourself. I'm thinking about how you'll feel walking through that in-gate, how the colors will complement your horse, and how we can create something that feels unmistakably you.

And when you win? Oh, you better believe I'm celebrating right along with you.

I'm the girl sending congratulatory emails in ALL CAPS, cheering obnoxiously loudly from the stands, and getting a little misty-eyed watching someone I've dressed make their dreams come true.

Your victories feel like my victories, too. Not because I had anything to do with the ribbon, but because you've allowed me to be a small part of the journey that brought you there.

Whether you've been an Alden Customs client for years, trusted me with your very first custom, shared my work with a friend, or simply stopped by to say hello in Oklahoma, please know how deeply grateful I am. Supporting a small business like mine means so much more than you might realize, and I never, ever take that trust for granted.

Which brings me to one of my favorite traditions of the entire year...

The annual Morgan Grand National & World Championship People's Choice Best Dressed Hunt Riders!

What I love most about this little competition we've created is that it celebrates something beyond the ribbons. It's an opportunity to recognize the creativity, individuality, and thoughtfulness that go into presenting ourselves and our horses at the highest level of our sport.

And while I may be a clothier myself, this competition has never been about who made your coat. We welcome riders of all ages, from every hunt division, wearing apparel from every maker.

Professionals, amateurs, junior exhibitors, and our tiniest walk-trotters all have a place here.

Because great style isn't reserved for a particular age, budget, brand, or division. It's about understanding the art of presentation, celebrating your individuality, and knowing how to put together a look that makes both horse and rider shine.

Our winners are selected by YOU, the Morgan Horse community, and each year I'm fascinated to see which colors, silhouettes, fabrics, and styling choices capture your attention. It's become one of my favorite ways to spot emerging trends, celebrate exceptional turnout, and find inspiration for the season ahead.

And of course, we've got some prizes for our best-dressed riders, too!

So, without further ado, let's get to the good stuff. Here are your Top 10 Best Dressed Hunt Riders of the 2026 Morgan Grand National & World Championship Horse Show!

10th Lila Burnette & Sarde's Fearless

Proof that fabulous things really do come in small packages.

Oh, be still my heart! Is there anything sweeter than a perfectly turned-out walk-trotter?

Lila Burnette was as cute as a button in her plum and blue plaid hunt coat, complete with a contrasting black top collar and coordinating blue piping. The color palette was youthful and playful without sacrificing an ounce of tradition, which is exactly the sweet spot I love to see for our youngest exhibitors.

Lila paired her coat with classic fawn-colored breeches, black boots, helmet, gloves, and garters, creating a beautifully cohesive look that followed the rule of fours, one of my favorite little styling principles for putting together a polished hunt ensemble.

Her coordinating baby blue ratcatcher shirt picked up the blue in her plaid beautifully, while a handcrafted wooden-handled crop added just the right touch of old-school charm.

And can we talk about that attention to detail? Every element felt intentional, from the accessories right down to the overall proportions of her tiny silhouette. It was polished, age-appropriate, and absolutely darling without feeling overly precious or costumey.

This is such a wonderful example of how our youngest riders can embrace color and personality while still honoring the timeless traditions of hunt seat attire.

And clearly, Lila has more than just fabulous fashion sense! Alongside her adorable partner, Sarde's Fearless, she took home the Grand National Walk-Trot Hunter Pleasure 9 title in Oklahoma City!

Congratulations, Lila! If this is what you're bringing to the ring already, I think it's safe to say the future is looking awfully bright. We can't wait to watch you grow!

Get This Look! Playful plaids in shades of plum, eggplant, and powder blue plaids bring a fresh, youthful twist to traditional hunt attire, perfect for the rider who loves a little personality without sacrificing timeless charm.

9th: Allie Awwad & It's All in the Mix

The devil is in the details, darling, and Allie didn't miss a single one.

I might be a little biased about this next look, considering we had the pleasure of bringing it to life, but I'm absolutely thrilled that so many of you loved it as much as we did!

Allie Awwad stepped into the ring in a gorgeous pale powder blue hunt coat, accented with a rich chocolate brown microsuede top collar, coordinating brown piping, and dark woodgrain buttons. The combination was soft, sophisticated, and just a little unexpected.

Let's talk fabric for a moment, because this one deserves its own little spotlight. Allie's coat was created from one of our most popular fabric collections, a beautifully structured, large-weave imitation silk that comes in a wonderful variety of colors. It has that subtle, understated sheen we love in a traditional raw silk, complete with the characteristic slub texture that gives the material such lovely visual depth.

But what really makes this fabric a favorite of mine is its structure and drape.

As a clothier, I spend an awful lot of time thinking about how fabric behaves on different bodies. Some riders benefit from a little extra structure to create definition, while others need a material that can gracefully accommodate and flatter their natural curves. This particular fabric is wonderfully versatile in both applications, allowing us to create a beautifully tailored silhouette without sacrificing comfort or movement.

And Allie? Well, she understood the assignment.

From her multiple coordinating hunt shirts, each incorporating her carefully curated palette of chocolate brown, powder blue, and ivory, to her brown hunt cap, gloves, and gorgeous two-tone brown boots, there wasn't a single element of this ensemble that felt like an afterthought. I particularly loved how she selected breeches that coordinated with the lighter brown tones of her boots. It's one of those subtle details that might not immediately jump out at you, but makes an enormous difference in how cohesive an outfit feels as a whole.

Even her beautifully understated makeup complemented her natural coloring and the softness of her ensemble. Truly, no detail was overlooked.

And that same thoughtful precision carried right into the ring. Allie's quiet equitation, clean rides, and polished presentation aboard It's All in the Mix made this pair such a pleasure to watch. Allie, it was an absolute honor to be a small part of your story this year. We can't wait to see what next season has in store for you and your handsome partner!

Get This Look! Pssst... if you're loving this fabric as much as Allie and I do, it comes in other colors, too. Just saying. 😉

8th: Mallory Stacy Sciaraffa & RRVE Louis Vuitton

Blue ribbon blue, and a little proof that sometimes the classics deserve a comeback.

One of my favorite things about this competition is that everyone gets to play. From our tiniest walk-trotters to our seasoned professionals, everyone is judged on the same thing: great style. And there's something particularly fun about seeing trainers pinned right alongside their own clients. It reminds us that regardless of our age, division, or role in the industry, we're all united by the same love of beautiful horses and exceptional presentation.

Which brings us to the fabulous Mallory Stacy Sciaraffa! Now, this particular look holds an extra-special place in my heart, because it was actually inspired by one of my very own outfits from years past. Getting to revisit that design, modernize it, and bring it to life for Mallory was such a fun little full-circle moment. Seeing how much you all loved it made it that much sweeter.

And can we talk about this BLUE? One of the most fascinating parts of compiling the Best Dressed results each year is getting a little sneak peek at the colors and styles that seem to be resonating with the Morgan Horse community. If this year's voting is any indication, I think we're going to be seeing a whole lot more of this vibrant, blue-ribbon royal blue in 2027!

Mallory was every bit as eye-catching as her handsome partner, RRVE Louis Vuitton, in the Open Hunter Pleasure division.

Her coat featured a brilliantly saturated royal blue, accented by a traditional black top collar and elegant gold piping. It was bold enough to command attention from across the arena, yet classic enough to feel entirely appropriate for a professional presenting a horse at the highest level.

And that balance is precisely what makes this look so successful.

As a trainer, you want to be memorable, but you never want your clothing to compete with the horse you're presenting. Mallory struck that balance beautifully.

She carried her color palette into a crisp white cotton hunt shirt, featuring a custom center patch made from her jacket fabric, black side ribbons, and a beautifully embroidered metallic gold monogram. It was a subtle way to tie the entire look together without introducing unnecessary colors or distractions. The rest of her ensemble remained wonderfully traditional: fawn-colored breeches, black boots, black hunt cap, and black gloves.

This is something I preach to my clients all the time. When your jacket is making a statement, let it make the statement. You don't need every piece of your outfit fighting for the spotlight. Sometimes, the smartest styling decision you can make is knowing when to exercise a little restraint. Mallory's look was a masterclass in exactly that. Vibrant, confident, polished, and perfectly appropriate for the job at hand.

Mallory, it was such a pleasure to bring this look to life for you, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for you and the fabulous RRVE Louis Vuitton!

Get This Look! And yes, before you ask... this fabric comes in other colors, too! 😉

7th: Elizabeth Doleski & Tara's Masquerade

Bibbidi-bobbidi-BLUE! A little Cinderella magic under the Oklahoma lights.

If you've followed our Best Dressed competition over the years, this next young lady is probably a familiar face! Elizabeth Doleski is certainly no stranger to fabulous fashion, and I've had the absolute pleasure of outfitting her throughout her junior exhibitor career. Watching her personal style evolve alongside her riding has been such a joy, and I have to say, this particular coat might be one of my favorite things we've created all year.

Elizabeth and her partner Tara's Masquerade, affectionately known as George of the Jungle (which, honestly, might be one of my favorite barn names ever), have had an incredible season together. Both horse and rider are still young, but goodness, have they already given us plenty to be excited about!

And in Oklahoma City? They sparkled. Quite literally. For Elizabeth's latest look, we decided to have a little fun with a truly special fashion fabric: a dreamy powder blue zibeline woven with metallic gold lamé. Yes, you read that correctly. Metallic. Gold. Sparkle.

And before anyone starts clutching their pearls over the idea of a glittering hunt coat, hear me out.

There's a very fine line between a beautifully distinctive ensemble and one that feels a little too theatrical for the hunt ring. It's a line I spend an awful lot of time navigating with my clients, particularly our younger riders who want to express their personalities without losing that timeless, elegant presentation we all love.

This fabric was the perfect example of how to do it right.

The soft powder blue gave the coat a wonderfully classic foundation, while the delicate metallic gold threads caught the arena lights with every movement. It wasn't an overwhelming, in-your-face sparkle. It was that magical little shimmer that reveals itself as the rider moves. Think Cinderella, but make it Morgan Grand National.

We paired the fabric with thoughtfully selected black and gold accents, creating a cohesive ensemble that felt whimsical and youthful without ever crossing into gaudy territory.

And under those Oklahoma lights? Oh, my goodness.

The fabric absolutely came alive, shimmering with every stride as Elizabeth and George made their way around the ring. It was one of those looks that was beautiful standing still, but positively magical in motion.

I've always believed that our junior exhibitors should have a little room to have fun with fashion. After all, these are the years when so many of those lifelong horse-show memories are being made. Why not create something that makes you feel like the star of your very own fairy tale?

Elizabeth has consistently demonstrated such a wonderful instinct for choosing outfits that are unique, age-appropriate, and beautifully polished, and this one was no exception. Watching this young team continue to grow together has been such a privilege, and I have a feeling their story is only just beginning.

Elizabeth, thank you for continuing to trust me with your fabulous ideas. I can't wait to see what we dream up next!

Get This Look! Dreamy powder blues, delicate lamé metallics, and subtly shimmering fabrics bring a little Cinderella magic to the hunt ring without losing that classic equestrian elegance.

6th: Nason Vallante & Laing Hill Rob Roy

A fresh face to our annual Best Dressed competition, but certainly no stranger to fabulous fashion, Nason Vallante makes her debut at number six! And really, is anyone surprised?

As a trainer and team member at Taylor River Farm, Nason has been surrounded by some of the most fashion-forward individuals in our industry. The Taylor River crew have been frequent flyers in our Best Dressed nominations since the very beginning, consistently pushing the envelope with looks that are creative, polished, and just the right amount of unexpected.

And when your boss happens to be the style icon that is Sarah Gove, well, I'd say you're learning from the very best.

In fact, I couldn't help but notice Nason looking awfully familiar in this fabulous cranberry and white gingham ensemble. Perhaps a little closet borrowing from a certain fashionista #BossLady? The two were practically twinning, and I'm absolutely here for it. 😉

Nason's coat featured a beautifully scaled cranberry and white check, accented with a rich cranberry microsuede top collar, black piping, cranberry buttons, a rotated belt with black piping, and black wrist accents. The result? Effortlessly cool.

There's something so refreshing about a gingham-inspired suiting pattern in the hunt ring. It has all the traditional charm of a classic check, but in a fresh color palette and contemporary silhouette, it suddenly feels modern, feminine, and a little bit playful.

Gingham and small-scale checks are having a bit of a moment! We're seeing them pop up in varying shades and color combinations, and I have a feeling this is one trend we'll be seeing a whole lot more of in 2027.

Nason paired her coat with a crisp white dickie, featuring a traditional silver snaffle bit and black ribbon carrier, cleverly carrying the white and black throughout her ensemble. Classic fawn breeches, black boots, hunt cap, and gloves completed the look without competing with that fabulous coat. It's a wonderful example of taking a familiar, traditional pattern and giving it just enough personality to feel fresh.

And let's not forget the handsome young man she was presenting! Nason expertly piloted her client's talented four-year-old, Laing Hill Rob Roy, with the kind of polish and confidence that makes a young horse look wise beyond his years.

With a promising young horse beneath her and a fabulous fashion mentor in her corner, I'd say great things are on the horizon for Nason, both in the show ring and in the wardrobe department. Congratulations on your Best Dressed debut, Nason! We have a feeling this won't be the last time we see you on this list.

Get This Look! Cranberry checks, rich wine tones, and playful gingham patterns offer a fresh, feminine take on traditional suiting, perfect for the rider who likes her classics with a little cool-girl edge.

5th: Katie Schaffer & Hylee's Bushmill GCH

Okay, y'all. This one is personal. Every once in a while, there's a horse and rider team you find yourself admiring from afar. You don't necessarily know them personally, you've never had the opportunity to work with them, but you know their names. You follow their success, appreciate their partnership, and find yourself cheering when they win because, quite simply, they're that good.

For me, that team was Katie Schaffer and Hylee's Bushmill GCH, affectionately known as Winston.

I've admired these two for years. Their consistency, their beautiful partnership, and the effortless way they seem to make an incredibly difficult sport look easy have always made them a favorite of mine.

But as a clothier, I couldn't help noticing something else. Every time I saw Katie in the ring, I found myself thinking, Goodness, I wish I could get my hands on her wardrobe. Not because her outfits were bad. They weren't! But because I could see so much potential hiding beneath coats that just weren't doing her justice.

Katie is petite, with a small frame and a strong, athletic build. Yet her previous coats often overwhelmed that silhouette. Shoulders that were a little too broad, sleeves that were too generous, a bustline that lost its shape, and a waist that practically disappeared. The coats were there, but where was Katie?

And perhaps some of you have experienced this yourselves. You find a color you love, a fabric that makes your heart sing, or a coat that looks beautiful on a hanger, only to put it on and feel like something just isn't quite right. That's because great tailoring is about so much more than making a garment fit your measurements. It's about understanding your proportions, your posture, your body, and how to create a silhouette that celebrates all of those things.

So, imagine my excitement when Katie's name popped up in my inbox during one of our Fabric Grab Fridays, inquiring about a fabric I'd been absolutely dying to work with. I nearly fell out of my chair.

The fabric was a gorgeous seafoam wool suiting with a traditional glen plaid pattern woven in deeper teal and soft taupe. Timeless, feminine, and wonderfully sophisticated, with just enough color and pattern to feel fresh without sacrificing an ounce of tradition. I knew immediately that it was perfect for her. And more importantly, I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it.

We set out to completely rethink Katie's silhouette. A beautifully defined waist, shaping through the bust, slimmer sleeves that celebrated her strong arms, and a carefully considered coat length that complemented her proportions and lovely equitation. The goal wasn't to change Katie. It was to finally let us see her.

And oh, my goodness, the results. That snatched waist! Those clean shoulders! The beautiful feminine shape! Everything suddenly felt balanced, intentional, and unmistakably Katie.

We finished the coat with a coordinating deeper seafoam microsuede top collar, delicate light beige piping along the collar and pocket welts, and a classic white cotton dickie with a subtle self-stripe. A center patch in her jacket fabric, topped with a traditional monogram embroidered in that same soft beige, tied everything together beautifully.

And because Katie and Winston are already such a standout team, we didn't need to overcomplicate things. Traditional fawn breeches, which picked up the taupe tones in her plaid, paired with black boots, hunt cap, and gloves, allowed the coat to shine without ever distracting from the horse beneath her.

But my favorite part of this entire outfit? Katie's smile. The confidence. The way she carried herself. The way she looked so completely comfortable and happy in her own skin. And wouldn't you know it, she took a victory pass in the coat's very first appearance, continuing to enjoy tremendous success throughout the season and taking home a Reserve World Title in the Hunter Pleasure Ladies Amateur division.

Now, I'm certainly not suggesting the coat had anything to do with the ribbons. Katie and Winston have been exceptional long before I ever got involved. But there is something pretty wonderful about watching someone who is already so talented step into the ring looking and feeling every bit as fabulous as they deserve.Getting to cheer these two on in person in Oklahoma was genuinely one of the highlights of my week.

Katie, outfitting you has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I was a fan long before I became your clothier, and I can assure you that hasn't changed one bit. Thank you for trusting me with this transformation. You and Winston are truly something special, and I couldn't be more thrilled to see you recognized among this year's Best Dressed. And that smile? Well, queen, that's the cherry on top.

Get This Look! Soft greens, muted teals, and timeless plaids strike that perfect balance of feminine sophistication and tailored tradition, proving that sometimes the quietest statement is the most memorable.

4th: Teagan Dixon & Ledyard Ultimate Joy

I swear, these walk-trotters are going to be the death of me. How is anyone supposed to handle this much cuteness in one competition?!

Coming in at number four is the absolutely darling Teagan Dixon, who, alongside her fabulous partner Ledyard Ultimate Joy, stole hearts in Oklahoma City and earned herself a unanimous World Championship in the Walk-Trot Hunter Pleasure 9 & Under division! That's right. All three judges agreed. And judging by the number of votes she received in our Best Dressed competition, so did an awful lot of you!

Teagan's turnout was every bit as polished as her performance, and I have to give some serious credit to whoever helped put this ensemble together, because the attention to detail was absolutely outstanding. Her coat featured a beautiful light lavender plaid with a deeper violet windowpane, creating a soft, feminine foundation with just enough contrast to keep things interesting.

A rich violet microsuede top collar picked up the darker tones in the plaid, while delicate lavender piping framed the collar and pocket welts. A rotated belt with coordinating piping added another subtle design element, and the whole look was finished with vibrant lilac buttons that brought just the right little pop of personality.

It's the kind of color story that feels perfectly suited to a young rider. Sweet without being saccharine, playful without being overdone, and beautifully modern while still respecting the traditions of hunt seat attire.

Teagan paired her coat with crisp white cotton shirting, featuring a traditional silver snaffle bit and a light lavender ribbon carrier, carrying that lovely purple palette right through the finishing details.

And while the outfit was certainly fabulous, I think one of our voters summed up what made this young lady so special better than I ever could: "This kid exemplified the phrase 'Just go out there and have fun!' "

And wasn't that the truth? From the moment she entered the ring, Teagan had a smile that could light up the entire OG&E Coliseum. She looked like she was having the absolute time of her life, and that joy was infectious. Sometimes, especially at a show as prestigious as the Grand National, it's easy to get caught up in the pressure, the preparation, and the pursuit of perfection. Then along comes a little rider like Teagan to remind us what this is all supposed to be about.

Having fun with our horses.

And if you can look that fabulous while doing it? Well, that's just icing on the cake.

Congratulations on your World Championship and your fourth-place Best Dressed finish, Teagan! You're already a star in our books, and we can't wait to see where this wonderful journey takes you. Keep shining, kiddo!

Get This Look! Sweet lavenders, rich violets, and playful purple windowpane plaids bring a youthful burst of color to classic hunt tailoring, with just enough whimsy to make every ride feel special.

3rd 🥉: Zoe Kovanis-Wilson & Nonstop

Taking home the bronze in this year's Best Dressed competition, along with a $75 Alden Customs gift card, is the fabulous Zoe Kovanis-Wilson and her handsome partner Nonstop, affectionately known around the barn as Goose!

And let me tell you, this young lady gave voters plenty to talk about. In fact, Zoe received nominations for BOTH of her outfits, in pleasure and equitation! We had the absolute pleasure of outfitting her for both divisions, and seeing so many of you appreciate the thought and creativity that went into each look was incredibly special.

Although Zoe and Goose are a relatively new team, you certainly wouldn't know it from watching them in the ring. This talented 13 & Under rider is an absolute powerhouse in equitation, but she's equally impressive in the pleasure division, expertly piloting her handsome partner to top ribbons throughout the show.

But it was her pleasure ensemble that ultimately captured your votes and earned her a spot in our Top Three. And goodness, was this fabric a showstopper. Zoe selected one of our Fabric Grab Friday offerings, a gorgeous merlot diamond brocade with a deep black undertone. This was a fabric I'd personally had my eye on for quite some time, so when Zoe chose it, I was practically giddy.

The rich burgundy was a stunning complement to Goose's dark bay coat, creating a beautifully cohesive picture without blending into the horse beneath her. And can we talk about burgundy for a moment? A few years ago, it seemed like you couldn't walk into a hunt pleasure class without seeing a sea of reds, wines, and burgundies. Then, as trends tend to do, those shades quietly took a back seat for a few seasons. Well, consider this my official declaration that I'm thrilled to see them making a comeback!

What made Zoe's fabric particularly special was its depth and dimension. The diamond brocade featured a beautiful sheen that changed dramatically depending on the lighting. Under a camera flash or bright arena lights, the merlot tones practically glowed. In softer lighting, the deep black undertones emerged, giving the fabric a rich, almost mysterious quality. It was elegant, youthful, and just a little bit dramatic in the very best way.

We accented the coat with a black microsuede top collar, black satin piping along the collar and pocket welts, and a rotated belt with coordinating piping. And here's where the details get really fun. By combining the soft, matte texture of the microsuede with the subtle sheen of the satin piping, we created contrast without introducing another color. It's a little design trick I absolutely love, particularly when working with a fabric that already has so much visual interest. Zoe originally planned to wear this ensemble with black breeches, which inspired our decision to lean into those black accents. But we also wanted to give her the flexibility to pair the coat with traditional fawn breeches, should she want to change things up.Because a beautifully designed custom should be versatile enough to grow and evolve with its rider!

For her dickie, we carried the jacket fabric into the center patch, then created a custom monogram that felt every bit as modern, feminine, and unique as Zoe herself. Rather than opting for a traditional monogram style, we chose something with a little more personality, embroidered in crisp white thread to pop against the dark brocade and tie beautifully into her white cotton shirting.

And yes, you read that correctly! We can digitize just about any custom embroidery request, whether it's for your dickie, a special message beneath your collar, or just about anywhere else you'd like to add a personal touch. The possibilities are practically endless!

But Zoe wasn't finished there. Oh, no. This girl understood the assignment. She completed her look with beautiful pearl earrings, coordinating number magnets, and delicate pearl hairpins tucked into her perfectly polished bun. And THIS, my friends, is what I mean when I talk about attention to detail.

Zoe's entire ensemble was a wonderful example of the rule of fours, a classic principle of menswear styling that I frequently borrow when helping clients build cohesive equestrian wardrobes. From her repeating colors and thoughtfully selected textures to the tiniest pearl accents, every element felt intentional. Nothing was accidental, and nothing was fighting for attention. It was a beautifully considered look from helmet to hoof.

Zoe, it has been an absolute pleasure to outfit you, and I have to say, you and your mom are exactly the kind of people who make the #MorganHorseFamily so special. Your kindness, warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine support of others are such a wonderful reflection of this community. We are so proud of everything you and Goose have accomplished together already, and I have a feeling 2027 is going to be another exciting chapter.

Congratulations on your third-place finish, Zoe! You earned it, girlfriend!

Get This Look! Rich merlots, deep burgundies, and blackened wine brocades deliver luxurious depth and understated drama, perfect for the rider who wants a little wow factor without going over the top.

2nd 🥈: Blakelee Simon & Warcraft CH

Y'ALL. Can we just take a moment to appreciate the fact that our walk-trotters absolutely DOMINATED this year's Best Dressed competition?! I mean, really. The big kids might need to start taking notes. Coming in at number two is the newly crowned World Champion Blakelee Simon and her fabulous partner Warcraft CH, winners of the Walk-Trot Hunter Pleasure 10 & 11 World Championship!

And if you've been keeping track of this year's rankings, you may have noticed a certain color making quite the impression on our voters. That's right. Blue-ribbon blue is BACK, baby! Blakelee's coat featured a brilliantly saturated royal blue raw silk, complete with the beautiful natural slub texture that gives this classic fabric so much character.

There's something undeniably striking about a rich royal blue in the hunt ring. It's vibrant, confident, and wonderfully traditional all at once, especially when paired with crisp, high-contrast accents. Blakelee's coat featured a classic black top collar, framed by bright white piping along the collar and pocket welts. The contrast was clean, bold, and perfectly suited to such a beautiful, saturated blue. And the styling didn't stop there. She paired the coat with a crisp white hunt shirt featuring a black center patch, topped with a traditional white monogram. Additional piping along the top and bottom of her collar, as well as down the button placket, added another layer of polish and visual interest.

It was a fabulous example of how a relatively simple color palette can create a truly memorable look when the details are executed thoughtfully. But as beautiful as Blakelee's outfit was, her performance aboard Warcraft was every bit as polished. One of our voters put it beautifully:

"This young rider is wise beyond her years in the way she piloted Warcraft through the ring with confidence for what truly reflected a 'pleasurable' ride!" And I couldn't agree more. From Blakelee's beaming smile to Warcraft's happy, forward ears, these two looked like they were having the absolute time of their lives in the OG&E Coliseum.

And isn't that exactly what we want to see in a hunter pleasure class? A horse and rider working together in harmony, making the whole thing look effortless, comfortable, and genuinely enjoyable.

Blakelee and Warcraft rose to the top of a deep field of talented young riders, earning themselves the roses and a well-deserved victory pass. And now, they can add another fabulous accolade to their résumé: second place in our 2026 Best Dressed Hunt Riders competition!

Congratulations, Blakelee! Between the beautiful riding, that infectious smile, and your fabulous sense of style, you've certainly given us plenty to celebrate. Keep doing your thing, fashionista. We can't wait to see what you bring to the ring next!

Get This Look! Brilliant royal blues, vibrant cobalts, and textured raw silks bring blue-ribbon energy to the hunt ring, proving that a bold color and classic tailoring are always a winning combination.

1st 🏆: Blanche Beutler & CFF Money Talks CH

Drumroll, please... because our 2026 Best Dressed Hunt Rider has officially been crowned!

And the winner is...

BLANCHE BEUTLER & CFF MONEY TALKS CH! Oh, my goodness, did you all LOVE this little lady!

And honestly? I get it. There's something so wonderfully refreshing about seeing one of our youngest exhibitors step into the ring with a huge smile, a fabulous horse, and an outfit that feels every bit as fun and full of personality as the rider wearing it.

Blanche and her partner CFF Money Talks CH enjoyed a fantastic week in Oklahoma City, earning a strong Reserve Grand National finish in the Walk-Trot Hunter Pleasure 8 & Under division, followed by a top-three finish in the Walk-Trot Hunter Pleasure 9 & Under World Championship. But it wasn't just their beautiful performances that captured your attention. One voter summed it up perfectly: "This tiny tot appeared to be having a BLAST out there, and everything about her outfit screamed FUN." And really, isn't that what this is all supposed to be about? FUN!

Blanche's coat was an absolute breath of fresh air, crafted from a brilliant jewel-toned aquamarine jacquard with a beautiful self-textured finish. The color was vibrant, youthful, and anything but boring. The subtle sheen of the fabric caught the arena lights beautifully, while the woven texture gave it enough depth and interest to stand entirely on its own.

And that brings me to one of my favorite little pieces of styling advice. When in doubt, leave it plain. I say this to my clients all the time, particularly when we're working with a statement fabric.

Not every coat needs contrasting piping, an elaborate top collar, decorative buttons, or a dozen different design elements to be special. Sometimes, the fabric itself is doing all the heavy lifting, and the smartest thing you can do is get out of its way. Blanche's outfit was a perfect example of that philosophy.

Rather than introducing additional colors or competing accents, her coat featured a beautifully clean, uninterrupted silhouette. No contrasting top collar, no piping, no unnecessary embellishments. Even the buttons were covered in the jacket fabric, allowing that gorgeous aquamarine jacquard to take center stage. And it worked. Beautifully.

She paired the coat with crisp white shirting, featuring a coordinating center patch in her jacket fabric and a traditional white monogram. A charming, vintage-inspired lapel brooch added just the right little touch of personality without overwhelming the look. The rest of her ensemble was delightfully traditional. Classic fawn-colored breeches, black boots, gloves, garters, and a black helmet with leather straps that beautifully coordinated with her breeches. Once again, we see that wonderful rule of fours in action, with carefully repeated colors creating a cohesive, polished look from head to toe.

But what I loved most about Blanche's outfit was that it never tried to make her look older than she was. She looked like exactly what she is: a talented, joyful young rider having the time of her life with a horse she clearly adores. And that's something I think we should celebrate more often. There's plenty of time for sophisticated, understated, grown-up fashion as our young riders move through their careers. But while they're little? Let them have fun. Let them wear the bright colors. Let them choose the fabrics that make their eyes light up. We can honor the traditions of our sport without losing the joy and individuality that make it so special. Blanche's ensemble managed to do both.

The fabric may have caught the voters' eyes, but her beautiful, steady, genuinely pleasurable rides certainly caught the judges' attention. And between her impressive results in the ring and her overwhelming popularity in our Best Dressed voting, I think it's safe to say this little lady has a very bright future ahead of her.

Blanche, congratulations on being crowned our 2026 Best Dressed Hunt Rider of the Morgan Grand National & World Championship Horse Show! We can't wait to see what fabulous outfits you wear next, what adventures you and CFF Money Talks CH have in store, and where your riding career takes you.

You're already a star in our books, go little rockstar! Keep shining, keep smiling, and above all else, keep having FUN!

Congratulations, Blanche! Our 2026 Best Dressed Champion!

Get This Look! Vibrant aquamarines, jewel-toned turquoises, and beautifully textured jacquards make a statement all on their own, perfect for the rider who believes great style should be just as much fun as the ride itself.

Until Next Year, Morgan Horse Family!

Every year, this competition reminds me just how much talent, creativity, and individuality exists within our little corner of the horse world. From the tiniest walk-trotters making their first memories in Oklahoma City to the seasoned professionals who've spent decades perfecting their craft, there's something so special about the pride we take in presenting ourselves and our horses.

And while we may spend an awful lot of time talking about coats, colors, fabrics, and accessories around here, I hope you'll always remember that the most beautiful thing you can wear into the show ring is the joy of doing what you love. The ribbons are wonderful. The beautiful clothes are certainly fun. But the friendships, the memories, the horses who give us their hearts, and the people cheering us on from the rail? That's the good stuff.

To everyone who participated in this year's Best Dressed competition, whether you were nominated, cast a vote, shared a photo, or simply followed along, thank you for making this tradition such a special part of our post-Grand National festivities.

And to our winners, congratulations! You've officially earned some serious bragging rights, and we hope you'll wear them proudly.

Winners, please email info@aldencustoms.com with your mailing address so we can get your gift cards headed your way!

I'd also like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to The Morgan Horse Magazine, National Horseman, and Saddle Horse Report, whose beautiful images were shared with us through reader submissions, as well as Howard Schatzberg Photography for capturing so many unforgettable moments in Oklahoma City. Our sport is incredibly fortunate to have talented photographers and publications documenting the horses, people, and memories that make it so special.

And finally, to my Alden Customs family, thank you for another extraordinary year. Thank you for your trust, your encouragement, your friendship, and for allowing me to play even the smallest role in your stories.

I'll never stop being grateful that I get to call this work. Here's to beautiful horses, fabulous clothes, big dreams, and the wonderful people who make it all worthwhile. See you at the in-gate in 2027!

With so much love and gratitude,

Bethea Alden Phelan

Owner & Designer, Alden Customs