Dovecote Decor: O'Halloran

By Liz Morten

and Christine Storch

This fall, New York City and High Point collide in their adoration of all things equestrian. Fashion has been head over heels for riding motif boots, pants, dresses and luxurious accessories. Many of the major interior designers raised the bar for new takes on tradition.

America's queen, stylishly passed equestrian scarlet fever, into a fashion addicted population. Fashionista, interior designer, Julie Browning Bova (below), merges her passion for equestrian attire and interiors, with her line for Stanford Furniture. Horse lovers, and design hounds, dive into her blog and website, its beautiful.

You can't discuss equestrian without getting the boot. This year the tall boot has continued to reign supreme. Tory Burch and Ralph Lauren cleverly illustrate how a riding boot can become an essential part of any one's wardrobe. Add an Hermes, Gucci, or J. McLaughlin scarf into the mix and you'll be riding though the holidays looking ridiculously refined.

Clockwise from top--vintage Hermes scarf/ Center-- Tory Burch, right top and bottom--Tory Burch,/ Far left bottom-- Ralph Lauren

Classic interiors, with splashes of equestrian motifs throughout, make the most of deep, rich hues and breathtaking wood accents, in Badgley Mischka's fresh: "Old, Kentucky Home."

The little black dress has entered the equestrian house. Black/Navy walls are "heavy going" to quote the Brits, yet traditional dark barn shades are space expanding while the lacquer sheen creates an oxymoronic limit. Layer this focal point campaign bar, with cut crystal decanters, and you have visual poetry.

Diamond Baratta

Plaids, spit and polish, paneling, and lanterns are elements of the equestrian style. Diamond Baratta's sensational entry, above defines the good breeding obtained through combined comfort and elegance. Ralph Lauren, the undisputed master of the hunt, is never spartan with the tartan.

Beyond the antique horse prints and vintage trunks, the use of brass adds bold character and supports this clean styling of Bagley and Mischka's guest room. This suptle use of brass is also the linchpin to the coat by O'Halloran below.

Palladian, Georgian style is synonymous with equestrian tradition. Magnificent millwork and craftsmanship transport us to the golden days of racing, and the sport of kings. Military precision commands utilitarian brass seams, lanterns and timepieces. We adore this kitchen and challenge you to find us a better one.