What is a "riding habit"?

A riding habit is a specific style of clothing worn by women when horseback riding in the 18th and 19th centuries. The riding habit typically consisted of a tailored jacket and a long, ankle-length skirt that allowed the rider to sit comfortably on a horse. The jacket was often cut in a masculine style and featured a high collar, while the skirt was designed to be full and flowing, with a split at the back to allow for ease of movement. Riding habits were often made of durable materials such as wool or tweed and were designed to be both practical and stylish. They were a symbol of the increasing freedom and independence of women during this time period, as horseback riding became a popular leisure activity for women of all classes.