Western Wear for the 21st Century Cowboy
Tuesday, May 20th, 2008
The 19th Century American West had its own unique style of clothing for both men and women and is commonly known as Western wear. Western wear ranges from accurate historical reproductions to classic western shirts.
Early cowboy pioneers such as Gene Autry and Roy Rogers were famous for the western wear they wore in the 1940s and ’50s. Their stylized garments were elaborate and functional, but would they still be appropriate for the modern day cowboy? Many of the tasks a cowboy has to do on his daily routine today have changed little. So, if the cowboys of old were to make a sudden re-emergence in modern times, what would they wear?
Cowboy Attire
Where would a cowboy be without his cowboy hat? A good sturdy hat defines who a cowboy is. I really like the hats by Hat Country, particularly the Shapeable Straw Cowboy Hat.
A cowboy’s shirt should be made tough enough for long day on the ranch and smart enough to take out your cowgirl on a Saturday night. We think we’ve found just the shirt. The Scallop Yoke shirt has that true vintage look that has good looking pearl snap buttons but is hard-wearing at the same time.
Buckled on over the top of trousers, Cowboy chaps come in a variety of shapes and sizes and no good cowboy would be without his during a day of work. The Fringed Shotgun Chaps from Cowboy Outfitters are sure to provide the modern day cowboy with protection, while looking good too.
Cowboy boots are specific to the cowboy - each has his own style that he prefers. Originally made from cowhide leather, they are also sometimes made from more exotic skins such as alligators, snake, lizard, buffalo etc. The classic design of a cowboy boot is a narrowed, usually pointed toe but variety exists with the heel of the boot and the newer Roper boot which are usually made with rounded toes. As a choice for our 21st Century cowboy we’ve gone with the timeless look of the Abiline Mens Boot in Brown Goatskin. The design of this boot is intricate, but by no means delicate. A worthy piece of clothing for the modern day cowboy.
Is there any part of a cowboy outfit that you think we have missed? Email mycacties and let us know what essential piece of clothing the modern day cowboy should not be without!