So, you’re planning to travel down past the Rust Belt and spend some time in the beautiful American South. Before you even leave you suddenly realize that you are used to flip-flops and tank tops and you get your laundry washed and folded in Oakland California. While people from Oklahoma are not hostile towards northerners and Californians it might be in your best interest to fit in and take the time to enjoy Oklahoman fashion. So, if you are trying to make your fashion fit in with the American self it might be time to learn how to capture that Western vibe. So, let’s go through a list of essentials you need if you want to blend in with the southern locals.
The cowboy hats
There’s nothing that says Western more than a well-fitted statement-making cowboy hat. Well, it might be tempting to get a beautiful 10-gallon Beaver felt hat it’s important to know that they are not only very expensive but not necessarily well suited for every season. The best way to show that you’re one of those city slickers who don’t know anything about western fashion is to wear a felt hat during the warm days of summer. One of the best times to wear a cowboy felt hat is during fall in winter and if you are planning to go to the South in the summer you should look into getting a nice straw hat that allows your head to breathe while staying protected from the sun.
The boots
If you are somebody who is planning to hit the bars and do the do-si-do, getting a nice pair of cowboy leather boots will make your move seem more attentive even if you can’t dance. Depending on your budget you might want to look at companies like Ariat or Lucchese if you want high-quality boots, but you can also do well with a good reliable pair of Justin boots. It’s all about having a durable pair of boots that you can wear everywhere while doing anything. Don’t be scared to scuff them and dirty them since that’s what they’re made for. You see that their unusual shape will give you a very specific stride and make you feel different just by wearing them.
Embroidered shirts
Whether you’re going for a classic Western pattern that goes over the shoulders or a more Mexican-inspired look that includes more colors you will find a lot of variety in embroidered shirts that give you the perfect Western look. While many people might opt for a checkered plaid shirt, the embroidered shirt is a much more iconic look that can be used casually and in more formal events if you are trying to look your best in the West. You will see that there is a lot of variety when it comes to bright colors whether it is red or royal blue and also a lot of white embroidery on black when it comes to shirts. If you want that Johnny Cash look going for a black shirt embroidered in white is a classic look.
The bolo tie
Bolo ties are one of the most iconic cultural accessories when it comes to the American South. Some of the most popular examples of bolo ties include the use of Navajo and Mexican jewelry which speaks to the mixed heritage of many states in the American South. It is not only so popular in the South that many people wear them instead of ties, but they have also become the official ties of states like New Mexico and Arizona. In 2007 even Texas moved to make the Bolo tie the official neckwear of Texans. It can be worn loosely like a necklace or more formally as a way to cover the top button of a button-up shirt in official events this is by far the simplest and most iconic accessory you can add to your outfit to get that Western flair.
The jeans
If you go to Oklahoma or any southern state you will notice something very obvious. There is nothing more popular when it comes to pants than denim. The jeans are not only an iconic table of the American West it is also in a way a pride of the American South. It’s important to understand that jeans are not pants that were invented for fashion but for miners and workers. This legacy is something that is profoundly imprinted on Americans and the culture around Western fashion. This is why it’s no wonder that many people parador cowboy boots with a reliable and durable pair of denim pants.
I’m sketching dresses and women clothes since I remember myself. My goal is to be a major influencer in the fashion world, helping young ladies with their style decisions.
