Mexico's Female Rodeo Culture

8 days ago

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Escaramuza is an all-female equestrian sport in the US, originating from Mexico, featuring riders in elaborate, colorful Victorian-style dresses.
Uniforms are strictly regulated, covering horses' haunches, with matching accessories and identical boots for team members.
Photographer Constance Jaeggi documented escaramuza teams across the US, highlighting their fashion, feminism, and immigrant stories.
Escaramuza's fashion has influenced designers like Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior and was featured in Vogue.
The sport represents a blend of tradition and gender dynamics, with women pushing against historical misogyny in charrería, Mexico's national sport.
Teams in the US often consist of first or second-generation immigrants, financially supporting each other to continue the sport.
Despite challenges, escaramuza provides a sense of sisterhood, purpose, and belonging for its participants.
The sport's history includes strict gender roles, with side-saddle riding originating from concerns over female virginity.
Jaeggi's work includes oral histories and poems, reflecting the women's pride, frustration, and hopes for future generations.

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