Timeless, comfortable and steeped in folklore, cowboy fashion is that all American symbol second only to the red white and blue. On the streets it's the boldest look of the moment.
With cowboy hats and boots flooding the runway at Anna Sui, prairie skirts at Diane Von Furstenberg and turquoise jewelry at Michael Kors, cowgirls are riding off into the sunset like never before.
Cowgirl Chic Trends
Past trends have seen the cowboy hat ala Mary J Blige and Sheryl Crow or the always in style cowboy boots worn by Kate Hudson or Sandra Bullock. Recently though, designers have stepped up their love of ranch hand fashion to include everything cowboy from head to toe minus any of the usual Vegas or lingerie influence thrown in. Unlike British designer Luella Bartley "Cowboys and Indians at Glastonbury" collection from two seasons ago, these fashions are not inspired by 1970s hippy culture either.
This time around, the cowgirl chic is as authentic as a film John Ford in CinemaScope with only a slight softness so clothes stay streamlined. Here are few tips for riding the range in style.
The classic boots are really hot right now and are your best bet with the new skinny leg retro jeans or zippered ankle cords. Ankle boots with a cowboy heel are best worn with a boot cut jean or the full sweep skirts and dresses (no tapered legs). Authentic English riding boots are also a stand out this season, ideally in a knee high black or cognac leather with a front lace up placket. Granny boots look elegant with many of the dresses and jeans but avoid them with shorter skirts and stick to dark colors or else you'll veer into 80's/Debbie Gibson nostalgia. Uggs and Minnetonka boots will work as well; just look for the more detailed styles and avoid the candy store shades.
Cowboy Hats
Very sexy and very cute, the classic cowboy topper that is the must have feature. Invest in a black Stetson or a Resistol and you'll turn heads perennially at any occasion. Look for a pinch front with a dip in both the front and the back of the hat to frame your face. The wonderfully helpful Mississippi milliner Walt Sartin, owner of Walt's Western World, recommends an indestructible California-made straw hat worn by country music star Toby Keith called a Shady Brady for those who want an all weather design. Selecting a cowboy hat should be given as much consideration as a great pair of shoes, if not more so, it must set off your features and balance out your form to perfection.
Western Fashion Accessories
Again, avoid most rhinestones, gold leaf or bright shades. Wider leather belts look best with duller tone silver, brass or gold buckles. Jewelry should be authentically Native American in solid pieces of turquoise, lapis or silver; avoid feather and skinny fringes of leather - no Bon Jovi this time around!
Cowgirl Dresses & Skirts
Prairie dresses, floor length or mid thigh are a unique way to appropriate the cowgirl look, just keep it tailored. Look for cuts without lingerie or beaded detailing and stick with full sweeps, fitted bodices and nipped in waists. (Think Victorian Cowgirl not MTV.) Pinafores are also a bold piece to try out and should be in non-flashy fabrics, look for solids or whimsical (not cartoon) calico. Denim skirts are another great option but unless the cut is very unique and well seamed keep the wash of the denim on the darker side.
The Full Fashion Bonanza
This is one season where you can wear it all (sans horse) if you choose. For some fashionistas, authentic Wranglers and rodeo quality Levi's with heavy, retro denim styling is the über look now. The versatility of the majority of this season's stand-outs has 'keeper' written all over them. And finally, many of us who normally would not choose to frequent online western wear merchants or stores are being pleasantly surprised at not only the amazing quality and craftsmanship of the clothing but the friendly, down-home and 100 percent genuine customer service.
