18 UNASKED ADVICE. 



With the right bridle and a new-fashioned and well- 

 fitting saddle, both properly put on, our horse may be 

 brought round to the door ; and it only remains to dress 

 the lady and put her in the saddle. 



Whilst the lady's horse was being saddled, it is to be 

 presumed that the proprietor was costuming herself for 

 her ride. This, like everything else, is a simple per- 

 formance enough when the performer knows how to 

 go about the matter in hand'; but those who are 

 thoroughly au fait as regards dressing for riding, are 

 in a decided minority. Even ladies who have excel- 

 lent taste in all questions of dismounted costume not 

 unfrequently make sad guys of themselves in an equestrian 

 get-up. I am of opinion, and my idea is confirmed by 

 several individuals best entitled to an opinion on the 

 subject, that the most handy and simple dress is some- 

 thing as follows : 



Beginning with the hat, we can only say regarding it 

 that whatever is (the fashion) is best. A " chimney-pot," 

 not too high in the crown, at present appears to be the 

 mode, and for my own part I hope it may continue so at 

 all events until we are all tired of it. It is becoming to 

 almost, if not quite, all faces ; it keeps on, and is a certain 

 protection against such a thing as the bough of a tree. 

 In all cases a riding hat of any kind requires an elastic 

 band, which, going under the hair behind, fastens it on ; 

 and a narrow velvet band sewn on to the lining, so as to 

 intervene between it and the head, will greatly aid in 

 this object. A chimney-pot hat has the advantage over 

 others, that when it fits perfectly it may be worn without 

 one. A veil is generally part of the head-dress, and 

 people may please themselves as to colour, quality, and, 

 indeed, shape and size a black veil with " tails/' which 



