Local store associates give tourists tips on Western fashion

Whether you’re a Cheyenne local or you’re coming to CFD from out of town, or even out of state, what you wear is what will define your time at the rodeo or the night shows. You’ll look back on the memories (and photos), remembering the fun outfits you came up with when you were out and about at the park.

The Boot Barn sales associate Ivie Moore said the best Western fashions for 2019 included bell bottom-style jeans and long, flowy outfits.

“Whether you have chiffon or jeans, the bell bottoms are going to be tighter-fitting at the top, and they’ll flow out,” she said. “Some might have an unfinished fringe at the bottom, and others might have a more hemmed look. They’re longer for both fashion and riding styles. If you’re riding, you want something longer so your boots aren’t hanging out and you’re looking like you’re waiting for a flood or something.”

The fashionable jeans for women tend to come from companies like Miss Me and Grace in LA, which have the Western-style “bling” designs on the back pockets. Moore said those tend to be more popular jeans to wear to the night shows.

For tops, Moore recommended ones that come in red, white and blue so people can show off their patriotism at the various events around Cheyenne. She noted shawls will be especially popular this year, adding that popular women’s styles are all about layering this summer.

“Fringe, shawls, vests, anything you can layer is going to be a big thing for this summer,” she said.

As for jewelry, you can never go wrong with a bit of turquoise, which has been a staple of Western fashion for decades, or a chunky “statement” necklace, such as ones that have a large piece dangling from them. A fringed purse in a saddlebag style would be another great addition to a woman’s wardrobe.

“Honestly, turquoise jewelry has been a Western statement ever since the cowboy and Indian days,” Moore said. “It was a big part of the trade back in the early 1900s. It’s just a classic Western piece that anyone can pull off.”

Cowboy hats and boots for both men and women are always necessary to have at CFD-related events. Moore said a beige-colored boot would be the best option to go with any outfit.

Loud patterns, plaid and paisley are the best options for men attending CFD. A simple button-up in any of those styles would be perfect for this summer, Moore noted.

Just Dandy owner Virginia Brinkerhoff agreed that layering and flowy outfits for women are a big part of the summer Western fashion trend, but added that it’s more about the state of mind when you’re going out.

“A lot of the clothing I sell wouldn’t be considered ‘Western,’ but you can really get some essential accessories and make it your own,” she said. “I believe that as long as you get an outfit together that you like and can make it your own, that’s the key to having fun at CFD and the night shows. What makes you unique makes you beautiful.”