Steeplechases and style have gone together since spectators started gathering for the races in the 1800s. With the Block House Steeplechase welcoming spring each year, what better way to celebrate than with a new outfit that welcomes the warm weather?

Landrum has three great shops offering a special Block House discount of 15 percent for members of the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club. If you don’t already belong, this is another great reason to join one of the area’s oldest community service organizations (www.tryonridingandhuntclub.org).

PJ’s Fashions, Sissy Boutique & Gifts, and Lucy’s Boutique & Personalized Gifts (all on E. Rutherford St.) cover a wide spectrum of styles, ages and price points. Todd Cox, co-owner of Sissy, PJ Steinman, owner of PJ’s, and Lindsay and Sonya Dobbins, co-owners of Lucy’s, offered some insights to make your day at the Block House both fashionable and comfortable.

 

• Color is very big and everyone should be able to find something they’ll love. Brights and neons are plentiful in solids, big prints and overall patterns.

• For those who prefer neutrals, classics like mocha and ivory are easy to find and the “Downton Abbey” influence has brought in lots of creams, soft roses and flesh tones.

• Mixed media, such as sheer panels or lace insets, are also popular.

• Seersucker is very popular and available in tops, shorts and dresses.

• Light and relaxed skirts are available in a variety of colors and lengths, from mini to maxi.

• Pants lovers can find capris, soft linen slacks, palazzo pants, leggings, jeggings, and jeans in fun colors and with interesting details.

• Among the three boutiques you’ll find all manner of accessories, including scarves, belts, jewelry, bags, hair clips, even decorated bobby pins.

• A cover-up is stylish and practical. Soft shawls, cashmere toppers or light jackets all work, whether you’re in a sundress, capris or linen slacks.

• All three stores carry light all-weather or rain jackets – an important item for a day outside – in great brights or neutrals; some reverse to a second color.

• Hats are a steeplechase tradition and you’ll find a wide variety, from casual wide-brims for just $20 (including monogram) at Lucy’s, to one-of-a-kind handmade “fascinators” (think royal wedding) at Sissy.

All three shops carry quality clothing and each has its own niche or specialty. PJ’s is casual but chic, elegant and sophisticated; you’ll find classic items with unique details that make them special. Lucy’s specializes in contemporary casual wear that crosses a broad demographic, and will monogram their clothing, hats, sun-visors, and more. Sissy offers unique clothing, jewelry, purses and accessories but their hats are the showstoppers. From wide brims with flower, feather or pearl sprays, to Gatsby headbands and a variety of handmade fascinators made just for Sissy, many with vintage touches.

 

Whatever your personal style, we agree with the steeplechase philosophy shared by P.J. Steinman: “What I love about the steeplechase is that everyone can wear whatever they feel comfortable in, whether it’s a long flow-y dress or a pair of white capris. Everyone can make their own fashion statement.”

That will be easy to do given the range of options available just around the corner. We may run into you shopping and will definitely see you at the Block House.

 

– Submitted by Tryon Riding & Hunt Club