The Fashions at Polo Matches

Focus On Fashion: Q & A With Molly Sansone 

She’s been riding for more than half of her life, and the passion extends to her children, as well as her husband, Doug. Molly Sansone has a deep love and respect for the equine life. She’s a polo player, a St. Louis Polo Club patron and a philanthropist. She also is the “go-to” when it comes to anything and everything related to horses, and that includes fashion.

Molly Sansone

For someone who has never been to a Polo match, what do you suggest wearing?  

MS: “For someone who has never been to a polo match in St Louis I would suggest being very casual 90% of the time. I would also say do not be intimidated in the least. We love and welcome new people and would enjoy meeting you and even getting you involved in any way! You can come sit on a polo pony and swing a mallet any time. We also have a polo school for anyone interested. We are not fancy, just fun and welcoming. We play three practice games a week [Wednesday, Friday, Sunday] and they are extremely laid back – tennis shoes and shorts or jeans. The tournament games throughout the season are also very laid back with the same outfit you would wear to watch your kid’s soccer game. Bring your own chair, cooler and food. Set up your spot, bring friends and enjoy.” 

What about the divot stomping that is a big crowd pleaser at the benefit matches? What kinds of shoes are best for that? 

“We have six charity benefit polo matches scheduled this year and those are more festive occasions. Women wear anything from dressed up white jeans to sundresses. I would definitely recommend sandals or wedges because you will be walking on grass the whole time and heals sink. Cowboy boots and a sundress is my go-to for those matches. Men wear a collared shirt and shorts or slacks depending on the weather. Some wear a sport coat at the more formal events such as the Glennon Gallop event. You will see a wide variety and really anything goes depending on the weather and where you plan to sit. A VIP tent is more formal while the other parts of the field can be more casual and guests bring their own folding chairs and picnic basket like a barbecue atmosphere.” 

Do you have favorite local places for purchasing any of those items? 

I have more cowboy boots than I would like to admit but I wear them everywhere. With dresses, jeans, shorts, etc. I get many of them at Giddy Up Jane or when we travel. We are lucky to have great boutiques like Cha, Vie, Never Enough and Fun in The Sun where they can fix you up for any polo event!” 

What do you suggest wearing or accessorizing with when it’s 100 degrees for a summer match? Is there anywhere to cool off around the field? 

“It is often very hot at the polo matches and shade is hard to find. You are welcome to set up your own shade tent or sit under an umbrella. That's why you will find most people in shorts and a tank top. Or jeans for those of us helping or riding the horses. Make sure to bring a cooler of water and your favorite beverages!” 

Why are hats so significant when it comes to sideline gear? 

You will find more baseball hats at a St Louis Polo match by far than ‘Pretty Woman Hats.’ We are a casual club of people who love polo, horses and just to ride. However, at the benefit games you will see some ladies in their finest wearing fun Derby style hats. HATS by DI-Anne are a great place to find those. She is local gal and very talented.”