What can we say? We got carried away. This was supposed to be one blog post about the western trend, but it turns out, this is a very inspiring topic for both the Texas native and the SoCal transplant. We had a little too much to say and waaaaaaay too many outfits show, so this is now a two-part post.
Being a native Texan, cowboy boots and bling are in my DNA. This means that every time a fashion trend report from around the globe kick makes their (repeated) declaration that western wear will be the next “big thing” or “new fad” or “hottest trend,” I giggle.
And it is not just me. I am joined by very fashionable women of all ages and walks of life who live in Texas or the rest of the south (whether Texas is considered part of the south is a topic for another day). And while my blog partner splurges on yet another pair of Ganni “cowboy” boots, I look at my trusted Justin’s or my gorgeous Old Gringo’s and I am reminded that she is in fact from Southern California.
I probably got my first pair of Tony Llamas by the time I could walk, and I remember visiting the Justin Boot Factory Outlet as a kid. It was on a family trip to El Paso and my little brother was getting his first pair. Travis was so excited he slept with them for a month. Now that I am an adult, I am proud to say I prize my collection of Lucchese’s as much as my collection of Louboutins.
Boots are not the only place you can see the western influence. These flourishes can be seen throughout designers and seasons and for every event. The three outfits below were all published within the past year and show western influences in all their glory. These three outfits are also appropriate for different occasions, including work and play.
But those are just two current brands. Ralph Lauren was practically built by using western influences in their everything from their denim to their workwear, representing classic Americana along the way. The popular seventies vibe that boasts embellished blouses with y-yokes took those influences from traditional western shirts. And flared or boot cut jeans? Well, that cut of jeans is not named after the rain boot. Laser-cut leather that has the look of tooling can be seen on everything from cocktail dresses to casual wear. And living in Austin, western wear is ubiquitous with our music scene, from rockabilly to blues, outlaw country to modern rock and roll. and practically formal wear in most locales. Cowboy boots alone are acceptable footwear at everything from weddings to funerals. Some of the most stylish brides I have ever seen are proudly sporting their Ariats under their dress and many a fine Texan has been buried in their boots.
Western wear is part of American history. It was created for horse riders, settlers, and other pioneers, but is becoming increasingly popular in current fashion. And while a western blouse with pearl covered snaps might not be on the same level of necessity as a white button-down shirt, one thing I know for certain in this uncertain world – Western wear is not is a trend.
Photography by http://Breezyritter.com