Houston, it’s rodeo time! Get ready for three weeks of livestock shows, music, carnival games, food and loads of fun at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo from Feb. 27 to March 17. Still looking for that perfect rodeo outfit? Read on for the latest trends and where to shop.
Just like in mainstream fashion, denim is big this year in Western wear. Elizabeth Goetz of Pinto Ranch, a fine Western wear boutique with locations on Post Oak Boulevard and George Bush Intercontinental Airport, says embroidered denim for both men and women is popular this year. Denim on denim is also in style and it’s a look you can easily put together with existing pieces in your closet.
Fringe is always in. Get yourself a fringe skirt, or throw on a fringe vest over a dress or tee. “It’s a really quick way to make your outfit western,” says Goetz. You can also wear a turquoise statement necklace to make your outfit pop.
This year, hats in less traditional colors, such as burgundy and turquoise, are making an appearance for the gals. But you can never go wrong with classic black or silver belly hats.
Boots are a key part of your outfit. If you don’t own a pair, rodeo time should be an incentive to invest in one. You can always try thrift stores if you don’t want to spend too much. In boots, you’ll find a variety of styles – from embroidered boots to those studded with rhinestones. A good bet this year is a suede boot.
“For the more traditional gal or guy who doesn’t want all the crazy, just a suede boot is definitely in right now,” said Goetz.
Guys can’t go wrong with a classic snap pearl shirt and denim, but simply adding a classic western leather vest or a bolo tie will quickly make your outfit western if you only want to invest in a few key pieces.
Now that you have some ideas of what to wear, here’s where you can shop:
Pinto Ranch - You’ll find everything you need at this fine western wear shop in the Galleria area, including handmade boots, western attire and accessories. Don’t miss its remaining rodeo season western wear fashion trunk shows on Feb. 24 and March 3.
Cavender’s Boot City - Your one-stop shop for western attire, Cavender’s has several Houston locations where you can find a huge selection of boots, hats, clothing and accessories for men and women.
Lucchese - This 130-year-old family business from El Paso sells high-end western boots and leather goods for men and women at its Highland Village store.
Boot Barn - This retail chain has several locations in Houston, offering a great selection of hats, jeans, boots, western wear, and accessories for men, women, and kids.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo - Have your outfit but need one last piece to make it shine? You can always make a last-minute purchase at the rodeo.