Libby Edelman Takes Us Behind the Scenes of the Hampton Classic
If Libby Edelman seems to love horseback riding, chalk it up to her husband and business partner, Sam. Together, the couple has owned and trained multiple horses all while growing Sam Edelman into a full-fledged lifestyle brand complete with shoes, denim, and soon, handbags—all with an equestrian spin. “Sam knows everyone in the horse world; he’s been competing since he was 7 years old,” Libby tells ELLE.com.
In fact, three years after meeting, Libby and Sam fled to California where they became regular fixtures at horse shows, both in and outside the ring. Soon enough, she was hooked. “I love the challenge,” Libby says. “To me, the second you walk in the ring, you’ve committed. You have to finish it. And I would be nervous, but a good nervous, because I wanted to win.”
Perhaps it’s that competitive spirit that has kept Sam Edelman relevant for the past 20 years, in fashion and equestrian circles. Case in point: this past weekend at the annual Hampton Classic horse show in Bridgehampton, New York, Libby, a sponsor of the event, took us along as she watched two of her horses, Marlon and S&P Quaker Hill, compete.
Click through the gallery below for an exclusive look inside the event.
Libby Edelman, dressed in head-to-toe Sam Edelman.
“The Hampton Classic is not only a very social event, but a very serious equestrian competition. I need to strike a balance between looking put-together, but also comfortable, since I am outside on the horse grounds all day,” Libby says. “For me, that means no heels—I prefer low boots, sneakers, or a sandal, depending on the weather outside.”
Outfit options of the day included the Sam Edelman Langley sneaker and blazer from the fall 2023 collection. As far as other footwear choices for the upcoming season? “I think you can never go wrong with a good loafer,” Libby says. “With socks!”
Libby Edelman with makeup artist and entrepreneur Gucci Westman.
A place setting at the Edelmans’ table, located ringside.
Libby with her horse, S&L Quaker Hill, after he competed. (“S&L” stands for “Sam and Libby,” Quaker Hill is a name of a street the Edelmans used to live on in Pawling, New York.)
A close-up shot of S&L Quaker Hill.
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