The event that is on everyone’s calendar is almost here and has everyone saying, “It’s time to rodeo, San Antonio.” But maybe it has you saying, “What should I wear to the rodeo?” We turned to our friends at Wheeler’s Western Outfitters in Boerne to help you choose the perfect rodeo fashion look.
By Aisling Ayers :: Photography courtesy of Wheeler’s Western Outfitters
Making a fashion statement at the San Antonio Rodeo takes a little pre-planning, but there are countless outfit combinations to choose from. From the standard jeans and boots to the occasional skirt and even a pair of high heels, you’ll see it all. This is Texas — stand out, let your personality shine, take some risks and don’t worry about fitting in with the crowd. Combine your own style with a touch of western flair for the perfect rodeo outfit. Whether it’s a pair of boots, a dash of turquoise, a cowhide purse or all of the above, make the rodeo your runway.
AN EXPERT OPINION
Lauren Crawley is a model, barrel racer and wife to World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider, Jacobs Crawley. She has been to countless rodeos across the country and has seen it all when it comes to rodeo fashion (the good, the bad and the ugly). After years of competing at a professional level herself and donning the typical rodeo competitor’s long-sleeved shirt and jeans, her rodeo outfits have changed as she moved into the role of cheering on her husband and becoming a full-time mom.
“In my opinion, the western fashion industry has an ‘anything goes’ attitude, which allows you to really have fun with your looks. It’s everything from velvet to fringe to animal prints. Whether your style is glitzy glam or boho, there are a lot of different directions that you can go,” Crawley said.
This rodeo season, she will be sporting an array of velvet, boots and touches of turquoise. When it comes to the glam rodeo days of Vegas, she plans to rock a pair of leather pants and a sequined blazer. “At Vegas, everyone pulls out all the stops,” Crawley said.
According to Crawley, who is also a Wheeler’s model, western fashion trends are attracting attention from the entire fashion industry. “It’s an honor to see major fashion lines like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger producing western lines that incorporate our heritage and daily lives. Western fashion is currently influencing designers on an international level,” Crawley attested.
3 OUTFITS THAT WILL TURN HEADS
Determined to provide you with the style inspiration you need for rodeo season, Wheeler’s Western Outfitters Buyer, Tina Miller, utilized her years of styling experience to bring you three ideal rodeo outfits. Tina loves the individuality that comes with rodeo fashion, and looks forward to equipping her clients with outfits that they will feel confident and comfortable in. “When it comes to dressing for rodeo, there’s nothing more fun than when your outfit receives compliments and turns heads,” Miller said.
The Little Denim Dress
Everyone knows the importance of owning a little black dress, but when it comes to making an impression at the Stock Show & Rodeo, a little denim dress is all you need. Don’t worry about going out in search of any special pieces; chances are that you already have everything you need to pull off this outfit. Whether your denim dress is long or short, close-fitting or loose, anything goes. Throw on your favorite statement jewelry to add a personal touch. While we chose a short Mastisse bootie, you can pick out a fabulous pair of tall top boots for this versatile outfit.
Miller suggests that you can’t go wrong topping off this outfit with a great hat. We suggest pairing a light-colored Charlie 1 Horse hat to complement the lace details in our Tasha Polizzi denim dress. “Charlie 1 Horse is really the hat to have when it comes to not only rodeo, but fashion in general. They feature western hats along with affordable every-day fashion hats that fit into any wardrobe,” Miller noted.
Kaci Riggs Myers, the designer for Resistol, Charlie 1 Horse and Stetson hats, revealed why a great hat makes for the perfect addition to your rodeo outfit. “A hat is what sets you apart from everyone else. It makes your fashion statement more daring and takes it to the next level,” Myers says.
The best part about owning a little denim dress is mixing and matching your own accessories to fit any occasion. Forget about a one-time wear — your little denim dress will be a wardrobe staple 12 months a year.
Jean and Bootie and Graphic Tee
Graphic tees are all the rage at rodeos. Don’t worry about whether or not your graphic tee is rodeo related — choose a unique tee that fits your personality. If you’re a western gal through and through, Miller recommends adding a detailed jacket. If you prefer a bohemian look, layer your graphic tee underneath an oversized floral kimono. We added a structured embroidered jacket to create a southwestern chic look destined to turn heads.
If you’ve ever needed an excuse to rock a pair of signature-distressed denim, rodeo is it. Graphic tees and distressed denim are a match made in rodeo heaven. There’s nothing wrong with rocking your denim as is, but bring attention to your shoe of choice by cuffing at the ankle.
Miller recommends pairing Dear John distressed jeans with a pair of vintage leather booties. When it comes to jewelry, Miller suggests a pop of turquoise with leather accents.
Accessories. Accessories. Accessories.
Accessories are every girl’s best friend, specifically turquoise when it’s rodeo season. “Turquoise is a classic western staple that adds a pop of color to any outfit. Don’t worry about the color of the piece clashing with the rest of your outfit.
“Turquoise works with almost everything,” says Miller. Make a bold statement with a handcrafted Squash Blossom necklace. Made with Kingston turquoise, this necklace is truly special and will get noticed.
Express yourself with your favorite hats, jewelry and belts this year; wear something neutral and let the accessories make the outfit. At rodeo, it’s go big or go home. These signature pieces create the ultimate look for any cowgirl who loves an array of embellishments. When it comes to bracelets, one is cute, but three is even cuter. Combine your turquoise and silver bangles to add an extra element of arm candy. Tina recommends a versatile yet stylish clutch to hold everything you need without the hassle of an oversized purse. “Look for a clutch with a wristlet to avoid bringing bulkier bags that you may set down and lose track of,” Miller recommends.
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is a must-see during the month of February, from the exhibits and deep-fried fair food to the entertainers and rodeo action. If your social calendar includes a trip to the rodeo, follow these tips to make your outfit truly runway worthy… or make a stop at Wheeler’s and they can help you pull it all together.
Wheeler’s Western
Outfitters
830.249.2656 :: WheelersTX.com
