Womanly-sized riders, unite!

[VCT]

Dee, I got the FF Field boots. I think the leather is really nice… not a painful break in process at all. One annoying thing is that the zipper sometimes slides down halfway on the left boot on mine. So I need to figure out some way to prevent that. I’ve mostly liked my FF stuff, but there is always something that makes them not quite perfect.

The half chaps wear out too fast. And I own two different types of theirs… both were around $100 IIRC… one was the Ali-gators and the others I can’t recall the name of.

The show shirts aren’t long enough and with either the stripes or white bib thing, and the “belt loops” on the collars… well they’re just kinda fugly.

The country boots soles are crap, they start “wheezing” after a few months… so every time you take a step you can hear the air squeezing out of them. SmartPak replaced my first pair after a few months of wear and then it’s happened to the second pair after a few months, too. SP offered to take them back for store credit, but I can’t find any other tall waterproof muck type boots that will fit my calf so I am keeping them for now. The footbed is also shite, totally unsupportive. That said the leather is nice and they’re pretty.

The show boots, like I said, have the zipper sliding down issue. The footbed on those is also crap. Just a rock hard flat sole.

Even though I loved the look of the cord jods, I never bought them before because of the self knee patches. I agree with Coreene on that. What are they smoking? But for $9… what the hell, eh?

So yeah… while I love the concept of FF, their product line leaves a lot to be desired in my book. Especially since I am not in love with hot pink. I’ve tried approaching the owner/designer with constructive feedback/suggestions like, “As a customer, I would love to see this or that.” and basically it’s been met with variations of “No.”

Oh well. So due to all of that I decided I would not buy their items at retail prices anymore.

[Coreene]

Oh gawd, the shirts, you are not kidding. Have stayed away from those. That’s why, at the end of the day, loooove me some eBay.

[poltroon]

I had a happy day at one of the in-person locations of Title Nine Sports yesterday - they’ve added some new bras recently that looked promising, but I hate trying to guess bra size and fit by mail. I found two serious bras that should be good for both riding and yet comfortable to just wear around, making it easier for me to fit in running and other exercise mid-day. I must have had my mojo with me because I walked in 20 minutes before closing, grabbed two to try on, and they both fit perfectly!

[DeeThbd]

[QUOTE=Coreene;5742474]
Oh gawd, the shirts, you are not kidding. Have stayed away from those. That’s why, at the end of the day, loooove me some eBay.[/QUOTE]

Coreene,
What brand(s) have you found that are a good fit for those of us who are in the bodacious or semi-bodacious tatas clique?
Dee

[PaintPony]

Can anyone point me in the direction of some plus size, low rise breeches?

I officially have the shortest waist in America! I usually end up rolling the waistband down, but even then I end up with my pants riding up to my boobs. I also have short legs.

(I type this sitting at my desk at work with the waist of my dress pants rolled down)

[p3rfection]

[QUOTE=PaintPony;5742709]
Can anyone point me in the direction of some plus size, low rise breeches?

I officially have the shortest waist in America! I usually end up rolling the waistband down, but even then I end up with my pants riding up to my boobs. I also have short legs.

(I type this sitting at my desk at work with the waist of my dress pants rolled down) :)[/QUOTE]

Yet another reason why I wish FF or some one would make American styled riding apparel for plus sizes.

Wouldn’t it be great to get plus size TS Trophy Hunters, low rise with a Euro seat, and in great colors in micro-fiber fabric!! Or Essex shirts that fit the tatas?!

Just saying :-/

Someone should talk to HRH Collection. They have cloned many of the expensive high-end brands, maybe they could do it for us

[magnolia73]

Yeah- I always felt the Fuller Fillies line just looked frumpy- the cuts, the styling etc. Very boxy and just not attractive. Even on the models the clothes look like crap- and you’d think they would alter etc. for shoots. It’s certainy better than busting out of too small garments… but ick!

1824 used to carry Tailored Sportsmans in extended sizes- maybe to size 42 or so.

[p3rfection]

Well, all this talk about wishing for US styled plus-sizes got me motivated to write a letter to Royal Highness Collection Equestrian. They have cloned TS, Essex and GP for much more reasonable prices, and they did a VERY good job at it.

Here’s the letter I sent to them:

"To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing you in hopes of convincing RHC that a ladies, English plus-line is not only necessary, but lucrative as well. There is an obvious need for English plus-size riding apparel, especially in the US market. Please take the time to read and consider my letter. Thank you in advance.

Let’s look at the industry standards:
The Tailored Sportsman has long since been “the” riding pant for the competitive equestrian. In recent years they have made leaps and bounds with fabrics and styles. They have stayed at the top of the list by staying current. That said, they are only available in sizes up to a 36 waist.
The Essex show shirt is by far the most popular show shirt for hunter and jumper riders. They, too, have stayed very current and cutting edge with both fabrics (i.e. lined colors and prints) and styles (i.e. button tab collars). These beautifully tailored shirts only come in size up to a 44 chest, and they run on the small size. This hardly works for American women riders with larger busts or shoulders.
Finally, the Grand Prix hunt coat. Stunningly fitted and finished in luxurious fabric with fabulous linings. Grand Prix has stepped up to offer technical and easy care fabrics that have proven to be hugely popular in all the rings. Again, repetitiously, they are not available in plus-sizes. These lovely coats are only available to a European size 18, which is equal to approximately a US 12.

So what is currently available to full-figured English riders? Not a lot. At the present, Fuller Fillies (a UK based company) offers a full line of plus-size equestrian clothing, from schooling and outer wear, to show clothing sized through a US 22/24. As I mentioned, this is a UK based company. What that really means is that these clothes are NOT styled for a US market. The cuts are far too frumpy and generous, so much that they lack shape. They do not offer low-rise breeches, or any other US trend. American women are settling for a sub-par look with Fuller Fillies. Simply by being the only “real” option, US women are causing constant sell-outs of this line state-side. In 2010 SmartPak picked up this line. There was a huge response to the products for the simple reason that it’s all we can get.

With that in mind, I encourage you to view a forum that is currently active (from August 2006 through the present) with more than 119 pages on the topic of “Womanly Sized Riders.”
Please visit the link: http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum//showthread.php?t=60308
These women are not the exception, but the rule. They shop in masses and are deserving of beautiful, current clothing.

I chose to contact your company due to your ability to produce current trendy clothing with a reasonable price point. I truly hope you consider expanding your line for the full-figured riders of the US. It’s not too much to ask for show shirts and jackets to a 54” bust or breeches to 46” waist, especially when you look at the monetary possibilities."

I really hope to get a positive response!

[DeeThbd]

What an awesome, well-thought-out, and ACCURATE letter~! Good job!
Dee

[VCT]

Great letter!

I am also interested in peoples finds for show shirts. I have a hard time with finding those.

Also, the TS Trophy Hunter low rises run a bit generous in case anyone is close but not quite a 36. I can’t fit into my TS schooling breeches at the moment, but my Trophy Hunters require a belt!

Also, I recently found these ratcatchers and they go up to size 54. I ordered the blue one. Shipping was quick and I am pleased with the quality of it. I would say sizing is accurate… maybe runs a titch small.

http://www.horsebackridingclothes.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=MDSADDLE&Category_Code=PRAT

[Alibhai_s_Alibar]

[QUOTE=magnolia73;5744729]
1824 used to carry Tailored Sportsmans in extended sizes- maybe to size 42 or so.[/QUOTE]

I’ve also had a little luck sneaking into the men’s section for bargain TS breeches in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes. I’m definitely curvy, but have found a few pairs that fit me well* (photo).

• in the photo, the oddly-shaped lump on my right thigh is my phone

[DeeThbd]

[QUOTE=VCT;5746967]
Great letter!

I am also interested in peoples finds for show shirts. I have a hard time with finding those.

Also, the TS Trophy Hunter low rises run a bit generous in case anyone is close but not quite a 36. I can’t fit into my TS schooling breeches at the moment, but my Trophy Hunters require a belt!

Also, I recently found these ratcatchers and they go up to size 54. I ordered the blue one. Shipping was quick and I am pleased with the quality of it. I would say sizing is accurate… maybe runs a titch small.

http://www.horsebackridingclothes.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=MDSADDLE&Category_Code=PRAT[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the link! And guess what…they DO ship to Canada!
Dee

[DeeThbd]

I’ve asked the head of Fuller Fillies to stop in here and read some of our more recent discussions on clothing styles for plus sized riders, in light of the comment posted on their FB wall…
“THEN we’ll be spending 3 days listening to US Retailers telling us why our Foxy Coat won’t sell for them (even though it is SmartPak’s third best seller) and why we really ought to make ‘low rise Britches’. Never gonna happen America - but I love you all the same…Suz x”
I’d really like to think that Fuller Fillies is interested in what we’d like - so now’s our chance to speak up!
Dee

[system]

[QUOTE=DeeThbd;5766198]
I’ve asked the head of Fuller Fillies to stop in here and read some of our more recent discussions on clothing styles for plus sized riders, in light of the comment posted on their FB wall…
“THEN we’ll be spending 3 days listening to US Retailers telling us why our Foxy Coat won’t sell for them (even though it is SmartPak’s third best seller) and why we really ought to make ‘low rise Britches’. Never gonna happen America - but I love you all the same…Suz x”
I’d really like to think that Fuller Fillies is interested in what we’d like - so now’s our chance to speak up!
Dee[/QUOTE]

And indeed- here I am! I am about to fly out tot he uSA so may not get back down the whole thread but will …eventually!
OK - here is the issue Ladies; I have been asking (in magazines and indeed -here) for plus-sized ladies in the USA to get in touch to let me know their wants and ideas so if you haven’t then it’s not that we aren’t bothered…

Please go to our website and register for a newsletter then I cans end out questionnaires to you:http://www.fuller-fillies.co.uk/company-information/e-newsletter-registration.html

I am going to be honest however; we have 2 customers - the Retailer who buys from us - and you the consumer…we have to make what you want, true, but if the retailer doesn’t buy it we finish up bankrupt. This happened with both the Ratcatcher Shirts and the Sophistikat Breeches; both made to specifications given to me from US ladies and neither was well supported by the Trade- we have a warehouse full of the shirts. I AM LISTENING but you need to make the retailers listen too!
I have to make 1500 garments/per colour/per style to get them made in the first place so if only a couple of stores take them on we’re up the creek without a paddle.

Get onto our website and register - then I’ll put out a questionnaire when I get back and we’ll take it from there!
Suz x

[system]

[QUOTE=DeeThbd;5747911]
Thanks for the link! And guess what…they DO ship to Canada!
Dee[/QUOTE]

We do a Ratcatcher with either long sleeves or no sleeves in a gorgeous Cotton Jacquard fabric; in Blue, Pink or cream stripes see:http://www.fuller-fillies.co.uk/show/ratcatcher-shirts.html

On sale via SmartPak and various other retailers across the USA (see where to buy ’ at www.fuller-fillies.com )

I will GUARANTEE these don’t “come up small”

Suz x

[system]

[QUOTE=Alibhai’s Alibar;5747883]
I’ve also had a little luck sneaking into the men’s section for bargain TS breeches in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes. I’m definitely curvy, but have found a few pairs that fit me well* (photo).

• in the photo, the oddly-shaped lump on my right thigh is my phone[/QUOTE]

Clearly gonna have to put an advert on here; we do Breeches up to 40" (which fits a waist of 46"); all designed exclusively for plus-sized ladies! see www.fuller-fillies.com then products!
ALL of our line is designed to fit and flatter the fuller figure so what are you waiting for?
Suz x;)

[PaintPony]

For whoever was looking for side zip breeches in green/beige: http://www.adamshorsesupply.com/browse.cfm/on-course-cotton-naturals-original-side-zip-breech-ladies/4,6503.html

The size 38 fits me perfectly and I wear anything from an 18-22 in pants. It has all the same features as TS breeches and is very flattering. I also like the weight of them because it doesn’t show any cellulite.

My favorite pair has a hole in them so I was going to get a few more. Great price too!

[DeeThbd]

@Suzanne Wild;5766223

I am going to be honest however; we have 2 customers - the Retailer who buys from us - and you the consumer…we have to make what you want, true, but if the retailer doesn’t buy it we finish up bankrupt. This happened with both the Ratcatcher Shirts and the Sophistikat Breeches; both made to specifications given to me from US ladies and neither was well supported by the Trade- we have a warehouse full of the shirts. I AM LISTENING but you need to make the retailers listen too!

Suz, I tried for EIGHT MONTHS to get one of your retailers to get me the boots I ordered - I received one pair (which I had to return as the height wasn’t what I needed) - and never once got a tracking number - just excuses - for the other pairs that were supposedly sent. I finally took the refund that was offered, and am going to order them through SmartPak this fall. So yes, you have nice retailers - but sometimes the retailers need to pull up their boots too!
Dee

[system]

Fuller Fillies retailers

I know you did Dee- you contacted me about it and I sorted it for you? This isn’t really about Retailers stocking our product though is it? THIS was about Couriers between the USA and Canada as I recall?
Unfortunately, all we can do is sell the product to reputable Retailers and then anything beyond that is up to them; this was one of our better Retailers who carries a lot of stock… we just couldn’t keep up tot he demand for the boots she was trying to replace for you after the Courier lost two pairs. She is well out of pocket on this but did all she could to try to reimburse you. I think this was the problem - you wanted to hang on for a product that we couldn’t supply her with in a timely fashion…
SmartPak carry loads Dee but I know they don’t sell n Canada as we asked them to do this for us when they were our Wholesale Distributor. Seems Canada is a nightmare in many ways when dealing with it from the USA. Have you tried Bahr Saddlery in Ontario?

[jnel]

why we really ought to make ‘low rise Britches’. Never gonna happen America - but I love you all the same…Suz x"

Thank you for this, low rise and fuller figure are two things that should never go in the same sentence. :no: I have been looking for a light weight summer full seat breech and have sent back three pairs because of the low rise or below natural waist trend. I hate it! I have junk in my trunk and don’t like breeches that pull down to my butt crack. My best breeches are Harry Halls and now a Fuller Fillies pair. They fit my waist and don’t pull down in the back. I bought the Fuller Fillies lush jods and am adding a full seat that goes all the way down the leg to the ankle.