It’s not just any day that New York’s style set hops on a ferry headed towards New Jersey. But this Saturday, that will be the case as the eighth annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic kicks off at Liberty State Park. Drawing a spate of top actresses and the usual players of haute society, this champagne-fueled sporting event focuses very briefly on horses, and quite heavily on style. So that raises the question, what should one wear for a day of boozing with the best? No need to stress that, because we’ve got your back with a few tips and pointers, with some pictures of last year’s attendees, that will place you on the best dressed list, or at least help you avoid a faux pas or two.
Take a cue from the players and wear white. Much of the chic factor that the polo exudes is due to the white jodhpurs each player wears. Take a note from them and break out your summer whites for this occasion. Whether you do bold, à la Chelsea Leyland’s dior (CHDRY) dress, or soft and feminine like Leigh Lezark in Chloé, there’s no wrong way to wear white here.
Dresses aren’t a necessity. Breezy sundresses are expected at an event of this caliber, so why not switch it up a bit and try out a jumpsuit? Julianne Moore absolutely slayed in this simple yet modern Rosie Assoulin one piece, while model Shanina Shaik went for a romantic look with some peek-a-boo lace.
Don’t do pumps. Everyone knows that stilettos and grass don’t play together well, so needless to say, this is one occasion to leave your Manolo Blahnik BB pumps at home. To easily navigate the grassy polo fields, and the pesky twenty-minute walk to and from the ferry, opt for wedges or flats. Not only will they be comfortable throughout the daylong event, but they will make stomping the divots that much easier. And as Dakota Johnson’s graphic kicks prove, the right shoes have the power to complete a summery look.
Accessorize smartly. This is the opportunity to bring out the big guns, at least when it comes to protecting against the sun in a stylish manner. Big, oversized sunglasses are welcome and there’s nothing wrong with a delightful straw hat. We love how Lupita Nyong’o tried out both accoutrements to accompany her Alexander McQueen frock. For some toppers that have a bit of an edge, consider this straw number from Gigi Burris.
For the boys. We’ve got two words for you: linen suits. This light material is perpetually stylish and undoubtedly the best fabric when the temps reach above 70 degrees. Also, don’t be afraid to play with color. Pops of pink, yellow, and light blue are the best way to go about this.
Finally, have some fun. Hello, this is a day fueled by champagne, so dress like it. Designer Mara Hoffman and blogger Athena Calderone didn’t shy away from demure crop tops or bold patterns, and neither should you. And if you do decide to go for a black look, take a cue from Carly Cushnie, who spiced up her bold Cushnie et Ochs cutout dress with a crisp white blazer.
