Uncategorized
Guest Post: Sonya Berg Zen Fashionista’s What to Wear to Opening Day of Polo
Hey all you fashionista, socialite, A-list, people watching, adrenaline junkies out there…the day you’ve all been waiting for is finally here! Mark your calendars for the 30th Annual Opening Day of Polo on Sunday, June 5th, 2016!
You may be wondering, but what’s so amazing about Opening Day of Polo? Well, I’m here to tell you, it’s by far one of San Diego’s most attended, fashionable and captivating extravaganzas of the summer! With over 4000 spectators in attendance, the Player’s Lounge styled by Modern Luxury and VIP tent will be swarming with beautiful people including jet setters and some of San Diego’s most elite socialites, dashing hipsters and celebrities.
[button color=”accent-color” hover_text_color_override=”#fff” size=”medium” url=”www.sandiegopolo.ticketleap.com” text=”Buy Tickets to Opening Day” color_override=””]
There’s always a soul-buzzing vibe created by the horses charging down the field, the solid click of mallets on the ball and the clinking of champagne glasses and divot stomping at half time (yes, that’s right, just like Julia Roberts did in “Pretty Woman”). Of course, there’s plenty of food and libations for glamorous guest to enjoy while they’re busy socializing and taking selfies. If laid back is more your style, join friends in the general admission area with picnic tables, craft cocktails and giant jenga! No matter where you sit, Opening Day of Polo has something for everyone. It’s a place where new friends meet and old friends and family reconnect and celebrate.
Now, how are we going to get you looking chic and on point for Opening Day of Polo? Let’s start with the basics….
Sonya Berg Zen Fashionista| 6 tips for Her| Opening Day of Polo/ Polo Attire

- Wear Hats.Wide brimmed straw hats and fedoras! Opening Day of Polo tends to be a bit more relaxed in style than Opening Day at the Races. Hats help to provide protection from the sun and add a more polished look to your attire. For a sophisticated and classic polo style, stick with unembellished and simple less structured wide brimmed straw hats and fedora.
Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal Toe Ring Sandal, Christian Louboutin Floral Wedge, Guiseppe Zanotti Nuvorock, gold leather embellished, Christian Louboutin Mandarin Orange Wedge Blue Dress: Nicole Miller - Wedges, espadrilles, chunky heels or flat sandals.
Remember ladies; half time divot stomping is a polo tradition and a ton of fun to boot! If you don’t want to turn you champagne sipping, selfie taking, divot stomping escapade into a perilous experience…then wear wedges or flat sandals and leave those stilettos at home!Ministry of Style Lace Romper: SHOPBOP; Patterned Top & Skirt, Blue Romper, Patterned Maxi, Jumpsuit: Nicole Miller Hats: Carol Bader & Jill Courtemanche Millnery Bag: Tobi Blatt - Stay on trend: dresses, skirts, jumpsuits, palazzo pants and rompers.Ladies remember if your watching polo from the Player’s Lounge styled by Modern Luxury or the VIP tent, dress in refined and classy styles.This Nicole Miller lace jumpsuit is the perfect VIP fresh and feminine silhouette. Micro pleats were all the rage on the spring 2016 NY fashion week runway. Look in vogue while keeping your cool wearing flowing styles like this ivory pallazo pant combined with a green micro pleat strapless top.
- Lighten it up with various shades of white, or go bold with bright colors, prints or patterns!Monochromatic ensembles in shades of crisp white and crème look sophisticated and elegant for polo and they keep you cool in the sunlight. If you want to look in vogue in monochromatic hues then choose one of spring and summers current fashions like this trendy, powder white eyelet romper; notice the statement bell sleeves! Both of these other looks are perfect for Opening Day and very fashionable. Keep it classy with a touch of sass, this pearl white lace jumpsuit with plunging neckline is a must! Looking for a romantic twist? Try this romantic eggshell lace dress with a beautiful open back.Go bold or go home! Opening Day of Polo is the day to sport those vibrant, jewel toned colors that look great when you’re striking a pose with your girlfriends.
Hats: Tobacco Fedora-Hat Attack; Black wide brimmed hat-Carol Bader Designs Dresses: Floral Printed-Alice + Olivia Amara dress-SHOPBOP; Jumpsuit, Maxi & backless print top and skirt – Nicole Miller Feeling flirty? Try a playful patterns, which are a fun alternative to solid colored attire. If Boho Chic is your style, this whimsical floral print dress is flowy and looks hip with a trend setting suede fringe hobo bag and a fedora. Other prints to try for your Opening Day of polo look are oversized bright graphic prints, colorful tropical prints and polka dots.
White Dress, Blue Lace Dress, Palazzo Pant & Emerald Top and Lace Jumpsuit: Nicole Miller - Wear lightweight fabrics like cotton, silk and linen that are breathable.Your choice of fabric is just as important as the color, shape, style and accessories of your summertime polo viewing outfit. You want to stay cool while looking chic and protecting your skin from too much direct sunlight.Organic or natural fibers absorb moisture from the skin and allow it to evaporate. In contrast, synthetic fibers are water repellent, which results in evaporation reduction, unsightly perspiration rings, discomfort and irritation. Cotton, linen, silk and even rayon are all excellent choices because they’re lightweight and breathable fabrics and help to keep you cool. For additional comfort on a hot sunny day at Opening Day of Polo choose a summer outfit with cut outs or a large open weave, like eyelet or lace. Flared skirts; billowy dresses, skirts and pants; halter dresses; strapless dresses and other sleeveless options are other styles that will keep you cool while looking fashion forward.
Lace backless dress: For Love & Lemons-SHOPBOP (online) Lace Romper: Ministry of Style Wilderness Romper –SHOPBOP (online) Palazzo Pant & Emerald Top and Lace Jumpsuit: Nicole Miller @ the Forum Carlsbad Cork & Pony hair clutch: Tobi Blatt Del Mar Accessories: Gentle Monster sunglasses, Ted Baker Debbie Pink Floral Scarf, Yves St Laurent Love Pink Nail Polish, Fairchild Baldwin collar necklace Marbleized White - Don’t forget to accessorize with trendy sunglasses, playful color coordinating accessories, a wrap, stylish hair, manicured nails and pared down radiant makeup.
We talked about hats and shoes, but there’s so much more to play with. Want to create instant movie star mystery, intrigue and glamour? Start by donning a pair of trendy oversized, mirrored lenses or embellished sunglasses and voila! Add a chic chunky collar necklace with streamlined leather straps and crafted from shimmering resin beads; they’re versatile enough to go from day to night and casual to dressy. It could get a little chilly at dusk so don’t forget to bring a pretty summer wrap, shawl, sweater or jacket, in a complementary print or monochromatic color, to throw over your shoulders when the sun is setting and your dancing the night away at the 7th Chukker After Party! And last, but definitely not least, make sure your hair, nails and make-up leaves you feeling fresh and beautiful out in the sun on Opening Day! Beautiful fresh skin and minimalist makeup with a natural luminous base is trending for summer.
Now that all of your stunning polo viewing sirens have the look down, go throw on your Louboutins and flaunt your beautiful self at Opening Day of Polo on June 5th!
Can’t wait to see you there!
[button color=”accent-color” hover_text_color_override=”#fff” size=”medium” url=”www.sandiegopolo.ticketleap.com” text=”Buy Tickets to Opening Day” color_override=””]
Ice Skating at The Inn at RSF
Our neighbors at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe are celebrating the holiday season with cheer and family fun! Guests will be transported to a winter wonderland with The Inn’s outdoor synthetic skating rink. Guests can enjoy skating in the Ranch under the allure of festive twinkle lights and the lighting of the stately 20-foot Christmas tree on the front lawn of The Inn. Starting December 19, the hours are open from 10am to 9pm, Monday through Sunday. The fun lasts until January 4, 2016 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Father Joe’s Villages.
December 19 – January 4
- Monday – Sunday, 10:00am – 9:00pm
Cost per session (including skate rentals)
- Ages 12 and over $18.00
- Ages 11 and under $15.00
- Groups of 10 or more receive $2.00 off per person
- Skating session is 3-hours in length
More information: www.theinnatrsf.com/ice_skating/
As San Diego’s largest homeless services provider, Father Joe’s Villages offers a wide variety of housing and services at several locations. They also prepare up to 3,000 meals and provide a continuum of care to nearly 1,500 individuals every day—from infants and adolescents to adults and seniors. This includes over 150 children and over 200 military veterans. As industry thought leaders, they offer effective tailored-to-client solutions to address the complex needs of the homeless, regardless of age, race, culture or beliefs. Their primary goal is to transform lives and end the cycle of homelessness.
To this end, they provide housing, rental assistance, healthcare, food, clothing, education, job training, mental health, addiction treatment and child development in an internationally modeled “one-stop-shop” approach. Their mission is made possible only through the efforts of compassionate staff, dedicated volunteers and generous public and private donors.
More information: http://my.neighbor.org/
POLO FASHION: Opening Day of Polo His & Hers Ultimate Style Guide
Opening Day of Polo- His and Hers Ultimate Style Guide presented by
Just in case you haven’t heard all the hype yet, the 29th annual Opening Day of San Diego Polo Club summer season is only a couple of weeks away, on Sunday, May 31, 2015.
You know what that means, don’t you? Well, for starters, Opening Day of San Diego Polo is an overall experience. It’s where chic meets sophisticated and trendsetting fashionistas; it’s the most adrenaline pumping and action packed spectator sport; it’s where family and friends reconnect and celebrate; it’s where the jet-setting, celebrities and elite social scene meet; it’s the food and libations (yes, plenty of sipping your favorite bubbly); it’s the divot stomping at half time (think Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman”); but most of all, it’s one of the most grandiose glam meets stylish fashion fetes of the summer in San Diego!
The hot topic of the moment for all of you glam and dapper polo-ites is “What to wear to Opening Day of Polo? Don’t you fret, I’ve got your back! I’ve put together the Ultimate Style Guide to ensure you’re looking sharp and classy at this fashion-forward affair.
Sonya Berg Zen Fashionista | 6 Tips for Her | Opening Day of Polo Attire
WEAR: Dresses, skirts, rompers, jumpsuits, palazzo pants and slacks
Ladies dresses should be classy and casually sophisticated. Consider slightly above the knee, mid-length or maxi sundresses or skirts in solids or printed fabrics. Fabrics that are cool and flowy are perfect for viewing a polo match on a sunny summer afternoon.
For a more playful and sporty frock try a fit and flare dress in a graphic pattern. Cutout dresses add a peek-a-boo effect without revealing too much.
Nothing echoes summer and femininity like a strapless dress or halter dress in a bright color. A touch of shimmer fabric like his turquoise strapless dress will take you from polo viewing by day to the highly anticipated 7th chucker after party sponsored by Riviera Magazine at night.
If a fresh and flirty twist is what you’re looking for, choose a flowing dress, jumpsuit or floral romper in a lux fabric. These are some of the selections by ASOS that would be a perfect choice for the younger generation to wear on Opening Day of Polo. Just add a pair of sunglasses and a sassy hat for a look that’s whimsical and in vogue.
For a more refined and mature option try palazzo pants or slacks in breezy lightweight fabrics. For a chic and classy look try something like these navy and white polka dot pleated silk pants available at Saks Fifth Ave., paired with a red or white blouse and coordinating hat and mini chain shoulder bag.
SHOES: Wedges, espadrilles, gladiator sandals or flat sandals
Remember to leave those stilettos at home ladies, not only are they a polo fashion faux pas, but they can turn your half time champagne sipping, photo posing and divot stomping fun into a hazardous experience!
Opt for a more practical and comfortable shoe like a wedge heel, espadrille or a pretty metallic or crystal embellished flat sandal.
If you want to get a little more creative and playful with your style you can add a pop of color with your shoes and accessories. Try adding a shoe in a color that complements your attire, like I did by adding this chic lipstick red suede ankle strap wedge by Chloe to my simple solid navy cotton sundress. Add a hat and a clutch in a similar shade of lipstick red to pull the look together.
You can refine your look even further with nails and toes that are polished to perfection in the same shade. My favorite shade of red nail polish is Dior Vernis gel shine nail lacquer 999 Rouge 999.
If you’re looking for a wedge that will go with everything, start with a nude wedge. These are my newest favorite wedges. The Christian Loubitin Cataclou wedge in suede and embellished with gold studs. It’s available in several colors at Neiman Marcus and Saks fifth ave.
COLORS: White, crème, pastels, bright colors, jewel tones, solids and prints
Now let’s talk about color…. soothing white, shades of crème, bright colors, rich jewel tones and light pastels are a staple for summer and polo because they help to keep you cool while looking fresh, and the jewel tones and bright colors look great on camera when your striking a pose. Pretty feminine floral prints, whimsical patterns and geometric patterns are current for polo.
Monochromatic is always an elegant look for polo whether your wearing a romantic silhouette like this ballerina inspired maxi column dress in ethereal white or this fluid fuchsia sheath. If lady like floral prints are your thing this brush stroked oversized floral print body conscious dress in monochromatic coral red shades looks chic and is light as air in a mesh stretch fabric.
This white & vibrant blue floral dress is a great way to wear a floral print that looks elegant and will keep you cool in warm weather.
Gen Y Millennials may want to try a vintage romper in a playful floral print. Floral print rompers not only embody spring and summer but they can add an eclectic style as alternative choice.
Monochromatic dressing makes a simple and chic background to showcase any statement accessory. This wide brimmed hat in bright fuchsia adds a cheerful pop of color that takes this ensemble from elegant to game on!
Even against this basic black and white sheath a fuchsia hat makes a dramatic statement piece.
If you want to sport one of the hottest colors trending the runway for summer 2015, then try something in any shade of aquamarine like this hot little strapless number by Flavio Castellani.
Or this simple sheath in a shade of aquamarine by Nicole Miller.
Soft yellow custard and every shade of yellow in between are trending for 2015. If yellow is what you desire, try anything in saffron and marigold to amber and lime. To find the right shade of yellow for you find one that compliments your undertones. This chartreuse dress is a perfect pop of color that’s sharp and vibrant and sure to make you stand out amongst the polo crowd. A dark wedge and this chic wide brimmed hat add the perfect contrast and add depth to complete this look.
A graceful fit and flare dress with cut outs is alluring and elegant in this sophisticated chartreuse, black and white modern baroque print.
Nautical is in for spring and summer of 2015. Lots of classic red, white and blue is popping up everywhere! Since solid color jewel tones will keep everyone looking sharp and they’re the secret to looking great on camera, you can’t go wrong wearing a bright color or jewel tone on Opening Day. Like these jewel tones in his and her styles.
Everyone will want to look especially polished too since the photo ops abound on Opening Day. You’ll be taking picture everywhere from the step & repeat at the entry to the countless posings with your friends and the polo ponies and players.
This New Blue techno metal stretch dress with cut out waist by Nicole Miller will flatter the figure by accentuating the waistline and it will complement most skin tones to keep you looking great on camera.
Vibrant electric blue is always stunning especially on brunettes.
Black and White is another lively option for polo dressing; especially in a polka dot print lightweight knit dress or a tropical print sheath sundress. Or you can create a retro canvas for your pop of color accessories by choosing a simple black and white sheath like this one.
Fabrics: Cotton, Linen, Silk, Organic,Breathable, Lightweight
Ladies when you make a summer outfit you need to think about the colors, patterns, textures and accessories as much as you think about the textiles. You want to look stylish while staying cool and protecting your skin from too much direct sunlight. That means you should consider lightweight and breezy fabrics that are natural and breathe. Some examples of light and breathable fabrics are: Linen, cotton and rayon (even though rayon is a synthetic fabric it’s made from natural raw materials and resembles those natural properties). Light colors will stay cooler than dark colors because they reflect the light. Another consideration is natural fibers absorb moisture from the skin and allow it to evaporate while synthetic fibers will be water repellent and allow sweat to build up, reducing evaporation causing discomfort and irritation. Cut outs, flared skirts, flowing dresses, strapless dresses, halter dresses and sleeveless options made from these natural fabrics are an even better summer outfit option. Don’t forget your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses for a little extra sun protection.
As you can see from these crisp linen dresses and stylish linen jacket, linen is one of summer’s joys! It’s light and breathable, and it has a unique lightly wrinkled texture that gives it charm and makes it stands out in any ensemble.
Hats: Structured Wide brimmed, Simple Straw, Floppy, Fedoras
Now you’re probably thinking…”Hey, wait a minute, what about the hats? Do we need to wear a hat to Opening Day?”
While hats definitely aren’t mandatory at Opening Day of Polo they are a great excuse to transform your outfit and add your own personal style and personality to your look while providing protection from the sun. Whether it’s a more casual sporty and polished look your wanting to achieve or an elegant garden party effect, hats can do the trick.
If you’re sitting in the VIP tent at Opening Day of polo, the dress tends to be similar to Opening Day of the races. You will likely see daytime cocktail dresses with structured wide brimmed hats and color-coordinated hats like these.
Another very poloesque option, if dressy and sporty are appealing to you, is a wide brimmed straw hat with a solid color sundress or a sporty print with similar hues of a neutral colored wide-brimmed hat.
Fedoras and other casual but stylish chapeaus are another option, especially for the more youthful crowd.
Accessories: Big Sunglasses, Handbags, Wraps, Accessories
For show stopping style…don’t forget your sunglasses! Whether your wearing over-sized sunglasses to create that mysterious movie star look or a crystal embellished classic style for a more glamorous touch, sunglasses will come in handy to keep you from squinting on a bright sunny day.
I love the selection of trendy shades in every shape, style, size and color that I have found at Gaffos.com.
The Tom Ford oversized shade is super chic! For those of you who want to take your style factor to a whole new level it comes in some extra sweet colors like pink, fuchsia and lilac!
Another shade I just love is the Prada Strass fashion sunglasses! They have a thick rectangular ivory frame with whimsical black temples embellished with crystals. They scream I’m a styleista!
High fashion round smoke glitter silver frames with wire temple . Have just the right amount of retro.
Keep your styling simple by matching your accessories. A small sophisticated clutch will take you from day to night, like this Prada nude snakeskin clutch from Neiman Marcus or this Chanel patent lipstick red clutch. You can increase your glam factor by adding sparkling accessories like a ring, bracelet and earrings in gold or styles and colors that complement your ensemble and accessories.
When choosing your handbag keep in mind that most of the day you’ll be sipping a glass of champagne with one hand while holding your cell phone in the other, so a small hands free bag is a stylish and practical option to take you from day until night. I love the new playful multi color paillette baguette shoulder bag by Fendi, covered in festive paillettes in turquoise, orange, white and yellow hues.
Another adorable option is the Givenchy Pandora mini box in exotic black and white snakeskin with orange color block. It’s sure to standout against any white or coral ensemble like this color block tangerine and burnt orange linen sheath dress by Nicole Miller.
Add playful texture to your attire with a feather hair accessory that complements your dress.
Even though it will be warm and sunny during the action packed afternoon it could get a little chilly when the sun is setting and your dancing the night away at Riviera Magazines 7th Chukker After Party. Don’t forget to bring a small complementary colored lightweight cashmere wrap, scarf, sweater or elegant jacket to throw over your shoulders at dusk to avoid the shivers.
Sonya Berg Zen Fashionista | 5 Tips for Him | Opening Day of Polo Attire
WEAR: Sports Coats, Blazers, Patterned Shirts, Collared Shirts, Open Weave Twill Slacks or Chinos in white, khaki or colored and preppy attire
Opening Day of Polo is a festive affair and an opportunity for the well-dressed man to add a summer weight sports coats or blazer to his ensemble (jackets are optional) for a more refined style.
Summer-weave crisp cotton and linen button down collared shirts in both patterns and solid colors are a staple of a man’s Opening Day of Polo Attire.
The selection of pants worn to Opening Day of Polo range from dressy shorts in patterns and solids to Chinos in white, khaki and preppy colors.
White pants with a Glen Plaid sports coat in shades of blue will give an outfit a vacation look, especially when paired with a collared shirt in a complementary color like this tangerine mini check button down.
COLORS: White, Light Shades, Crème Nuances, Jewel Tones and Preppy Tones
For the ultimate cool factor during a hot summer day of polo viewing, go with light, off white and crème nuances for your basic pieces.
If soft colors like pink, lavender, yellow and blue are unexplored color territory that you desire to venture, Opening Day of Polo is a great time to try these fashion forward colors out as one of your basic pieces such as your jacket, shirt or bow tie in a solid or print.
Shades of blue, stripes, madras, glen plaid, gingham check, mini checks and whimsical patterns are often seen on sports coats and button downs.
Combining preppy hues like navy, lime green and pink in solids and prints is another common for Opening Day Attire.
FABRICS: Linen, Cotton, Seersucker, Open Weave Twill and Poplin, Chambray and Madras
The well-dressed man must consider several essential components when selecting fabrics for the attire he will wear for viewing polo on a warm sunny day at Opening Day of Polo.
First and foremost, the fabric should be lightweight. The finer the thread, the looser the weave, and the more porous the material is the more the fabric breathes and the less work your body has to do to stay cool. An open weave fabric made from natural fibers vs. synthetic fibers is preferred. Synthetic fibers are typically non-breathable and are more likely to hold sweat and air in.
Cotton is the most common staple textile in most men’s summer wardrobe. It’s light and breathable and it’s less expensive than linen.
Linen on the other hand is also a light and breathable fabric but it has a texture that gives it character and charm and makes it a unique choice for a button down shirt or sports coat. Some men dislike linen because it wrinkles too easily. This cornflower blue linen and cotton blend sports coat is an example of a blend of cotton and linen that has a hint of the composition of linen without all of it’s inherent wrinkling.
Other open weave fabrics which are a smart choice for keeping cool and looking good all day long at Opening Day of Polo, are other light weight open weaves such as; seersucker, twill, poplin, gingham, chambray and madras. These fabrics are a popular choice for everything from sports coats to collared shirts, dressy shorts and even some trousers.
SHOES: Driving Shoes, Boat Shoes, Loafers, Oxfords (light in color)
Men, leave your jeans and sneakers at home on Opening Day (unless you’re tailgating, that is). Your shoes can literally make or break an entire outfit, so be diligent on selecting what to wear on your feet. Nothing says classy summer style more than a pair of suede loafers or driving moccasins in a light color. Match your pants and shoes for a lengthening effect and overall summer style, like this white Ferrigamo suede loafer and putty chinos.
Want to have your own stand out style on Opening Day? Why not try on a colored suede shoe? Try it in a shade of blue similar to your jacket. Then use a neutral chino and a complementary colored cotton button down, like this mini check tangerine shirt, to break up the blues and avoid looking overly matchy.
ACCESSORIES & HATS: Bow ties, Cuff links, Straw Panama Hats, Fedoras and Boat Hats and Sunglasses
Want to create a signature look on Opening Day that will ensure you will be remembered? Then try on a bow tie for style. Jill Courtemache in Solana Beach carries a wide range of bow ties and hats for every guy. You can even get a bow tie and a boat hat with a color coordinated ribbon band from her store.
Remember when choosing a bowtie size that it should fit between the outside of a man’s eyes and the edge of the head to be well proportioned. When choosing a color or pattern of bowtie remember to use different sizes and types of patterns like this yellow mini check patterned collared shirt, navy polka dot pocket square and tri-color shadow stripe bow tie that pulls all three colors together.
Cuff links are hip and they look stylin’ when used in place of buttons to hold a man’s French cuffs around his wrist. Cuff links add an element of elegance and style to any man’s outfit. What better occasion to transform your ordinary outfit into something suave and debonair than Opening Day of Polo? Remember to match your cuff links to something in your outfit and to wear a blazer or sports coat that complements the ensemble for a polished appearance.
Opening Day of Polo is the perfect time to wear a hat. A hat not only provides protection from the sun but it’s the ideal accessory to help to finish off an outfit, adding a sartorial statement piece. Add a Fedora, Panama hat or other straw hat to achieve the look that’s the epitome of a well-dressed man. A straw hat with a band that complements your attire or a hat in a complementary shade of your ensemble is the key to wearing a hat well. If your attending Opening Day with a date and want to score a few extra points in style and with your date, add a pocket square that compliments your dates outfit. This is how the stylish man rolls as you can see:
If you want to look like a rock star and you don’t want to be squinting in the sun all day at Opening Day of Polo, then don’t forget to wear a pair of superfly sunglasses! Stylish sunglasses will keep you looking sharp while staying focused and avoiding the glare of the sun. The following are some of my favorite summer sunglasses for men in 2015:
These sunglasses add a little mobster style film producer
Heavy frame 60’s inspired shades that keep you cool and contemporary
Mitsu sunglasses have an edgy aesthetic with a somewhat rounded frame that comes in different translucent colors
Sonya Berg Zen Fashionista | Style Tip for Tailgaters | Opening Day of Polo Attire
WEAR: Casual, Relaxed attire
For those of you who have decided to enjoy Opening Day of Polo in a more informal setting while tailgating from the back of your car and picnicking with family and friends, the dress is more casual and relaxed. Women will often wear casual sundresses, rompers or shorts in light and graceful fabrics and wear a fedora or simple straw hat for sun protection. Men may opt. for khaki shorts or jeans and a polo shirt in a light color. Simple leather sandals are a comfortable shoe option that works well for polo spectators who are tailgating.
Now that you will all be dressed for the occasion, the most important part of the day is to have fun and celebrate, enjoy your time re uniting with family and friends, make some new friends and enjoy the adventure of action packed polo and a festive social scene at Opening Day of Polo 2015!
Thank you to our vendors:
Women’s Dresses: Matti D Clothing, Del Mar (turquoise geometric patterned dress, navy blue cotton dress, aquamarine strapless and vibrant blue strapless dresses) & Nicole Miller, at The Forum in Carlsbad (remaining dresses).
Women’s Hats:
Jill Courtemanche Millinery, Solana Beach, CA (turquoise with black and navy accents formal wide brimmed hat, off-white structured with off white ribbon shown with navy cut out dress and black wide brimmed hat with baroque print dress) & Del Mar Hat Company, Del Mar, CA (remaining hats)
Men’s Clothing: Nordstroms Fashion Valley
Make up: Rene Gonzales www.candemakeupartistry.com
Jesse Bray Wins Prestigious USPA Equus & Co. Award
Emerging polo star Jesse Bray, a native to southern California, was selected as the winner of the USPA Equus & Co. Award and the $10,000 prize that goes with it, which honors the Team USPA player who best exemplifies the program’s principles. The Equus & Co. Award was presented on Sunday, April 13 immediately following the 26-goal U.S. Open Polo Championship quarterfinals at International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, FL. Jesse Bray, Lucas Reid and Will Tankard were all nominated for the prestigious award.
“The three finalists are dedicated to the sport of polo and have worked hard to improve in all areas,” said Team USPA Program Director Kris Bowman in describing this year’s finalists. “Jesse, Lucas and Will are prime examples of the future of American polo. They are the true embodiment of the principles on which Jim Whisenand founded this prestigious award.”
Bray, a 4-goaler who is based in California, has won numerous tournaments around the country. Last summer at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, he captured top Best Playing Pony honors in the 12-goal Intra-Circuit Cup with Can-Can and the 12-goal Vic Graber with Antelope, where he also earned the MVP award. He also won the Spreckles Cup at the San Diego Polo Club and finished it off by being selected as winner of the prestigious Willis Allen award, which recognizes the top all-around player, sportsman and horseman under 25 years-old.
The 21-year-old Bray has been on winning teams since 2010, when he was a part of the Eldorado Polo Club team that won the USPA National Interscholastic Championship. Bray is also a four-time winner of the Western Regional Interscholastic Championships.
SDPC’s Fall Favorites
Although the summer days have turned to crisp autumn afternoons, we are lucky to host events throughout the year. Our rustic venue is perfect for your next fall-inspired corporate or special event. Warm up field-side with spiced cider and pumpkin soup as your group enjoys the beautiful equestrian sport of polo and wide open space at the San Diego Polo Club.
Kobe Bryant Visits the SD Polo Club!
Basketball all-star Kobe Bryant was at the San Diego Polo Club this Saturday watching his daughter’s soccer team compete in a weekend tournament.
Maybe he’ll give polo a shot!
Photo courtesy of San Diego Surf Soccer Club
Labor Day Tournament & White Party
Things have been heating up in San Diego and we aren’t talking about just the weather. As the San Diego Polo Summer Season continues through August and September, the polo talent rises. The horses are faster, the players work harder, and the crowds grow larger.
This holiday weekend’s Labor Day Tournament started off with an 8-goal tournament match between Twin Palms/San Fernando vs. StarMeadow/Monteverde. Things started off at an even pace in the first chukker, with Diego Velarde and Gaston VonWernich scoring for Twin Palms/San Fernando and Ellen Greenhill and Colton Bancroft scoring for StarMeadow/Monteverde. Roberto Estudillo scored 3 goals for his team, Twin Palms/San Fernando and teammate, Diego Velarde, had a high of 5 goals. Although StarMeadow/Monteverde played their hearts out, they just couldn’t catch up. Twin Palms/San Fernando beat StarMeadow/Monteverde 10 to 7.
During intermission, the Victorian Roses Riding Society performed. The Victorian Roses are a re-enactment group from Southern California who enjoy representing history and doing events that raise money for charity. The group symbolizes the romance of the 1880’s, or the Victorian Era, in the colorful costumes they wear and each member has a “rose” moniker representing who she is in the re-enactment society. Truly a sisterhood of dedicated women, these ladies ride in numerous parades and rodeo ceremonies and also participate in skit competitions, old-west shows, costume contests and other events.
The feature match was the finals of the Labor Day tournament with Hanalei Bay vs. Adeptus. Jesse Bray, who was bumped from a 2-goal handicap to a 4-goal handicap last year, started things off quickly and scored a goal for Adeptus within the first 30 seconds of the match. Ashton Wolf, another favorite San Diego Polo player, scored 2 for Hanalei Bay in the first chukker. Jesse Bray wouldn’t let that slide, so he scored two additional points for Adeptus in the second chukker. By the third chukker, the score was tied up 3 to 3.
Guests enjoyed stomping divots with their Korbel California Champagne. During the divot stomp, guests dressed in white spread out across the green grass during the perfect summer day.
During the half time, Hanalei Bay recharged and focused on the match. In the fourth chukker, they came out blazing. Mariano Fassetta score 3 goals and Ashton Wolf scored 1 for Hanalei Bay. Adeptus’ Daniel Juarez only could get one goal past the opposing team. In the fifth chukker, Hanalei Bay kept up with an additional 3 goals by Ashton Wolf, bringing the score up to 11. Daniel Juarez scored again in the 5th and 6th chukkers, along with Jesse Bray, but they just couldn’t catch up to Hanalei Bay, but they sure did put up a fight! Hanalei Bay beat Adeptus 12 to 9.
If you’re looking for some more action, join us this Sunday for the USPA Rossmore Cup and our annual Salute to Military, as we honor active military, veterans, and first responders.
2nd Annual Aloha Sunday
Join us as we kick off our second half of the 2013 Polo Season with Aloha Sunday. We are partnering with ilovemusubi.com for this island inspired Sunday. The Wild Thyme Catering Company and Chef Dawn Parks will be putting together a special menu consisting of Hawaiian specialty items like Loco Moco, Pineapple Pig with Coconut Rice and Ahi Poke. We’ll have fresh plumeria lei, shave ice and hip shaking island jams from Kieljhon of Ezzrah.
Pavilion tickets and General Admission tickets are still available online: sandiegopolo.ticketleap.com