How to Dress Western for Guys: The Ultimate Guide
Dressing in a Western style is a great way for guys to embrace the rugged charm and heritage of the American West. Whether you have roots in cowboy culture, enjoy country music and line dancing, or simply appreciate the aesthetic of Western wear, here's how you can put together an authentic Western look.
How to Dress Western for Guys
The Basics: Essential Western Pieces Every Western outfit starts with a few key pieces:
Western Shirts: Look for button-down shirts with pointed yokes, snap closures, and embroidered details. Classic fabrics include denim, plaid, and solid twill. Popular brands are Ariat, Wrangler, and Cinch.
Jeans: Straight leg, bootcut or relaxed fit jeans in a durable denim are essential to accommodate cowboy boots. Brands like Wrangler, Ariat and Levi's offer Western styles.
Cowboy Boots: Invest in a quality pair of leather cowboy boots with a comfortable heel for walking. Choose from traditional styles or exotic leathers and designs. Lucchese, Justin, and Ariat make excellent boots.
Belts & Buckles: A thick leather belt with a bold buckle featuring Western motifs finishes off your look. Silver or brass buckles with horses, bull heads or other designs make a statement.
Outerwear Essentials
Add these outerwear pieces to complete your Western style:
Denim or Leather Jackets: Classic denim or leather jackets, especially those with fringe, conchos, or embroidery, add rugged Western flair. Brands like Schaefer Outfitter and Pendleton make quality jackets.
Vests: Leather or wool vests layered over a Western shirt add both style and warmth. Look for designs with Western yokes or fringe detailing.
Wool Coats: For colder weather, traditional wool coats like dusters or frock coats provide style and function, pairing perfectly with boots and a hat.
Authentic Accessories
No Western look is complete without the right accessories:
Cowboy Hats: A quality felt or straw cowboy hat tops off your outfit. Stetson and Resistol make classic hats in a range of styles and colors to suit your taste.
Bolo Ties: A Western staple, bolo ties feature decorative metal tips and cords instead of a traditional necktie. Choose designs with stones, Western motifs, or silver accents.
Bandanas: Worn around the neck, a printed bandana is both practical for warmth or sun protection and adds a Western touch to your look.
Tips for Pulling Off the Western Look For Guys
Start simple, then build your wardrobe. Begin with a great pair of jeans, Western shirt, and cowboy boots for a basic look you can wear daily. Add pieces like hats, jackets, and accessories over time.
Invest in well-made, authentic pieces. Quality Western wear is made to last, so choose durable denim, leather, and wool fabrics and construction. Brands specializing in Western clothing are your best bet.
Mix and match to suit your style. You don't have to go head-to-toe Western all the time. Try pairing Western pieces with more modern clothing items for a personalized take on the look.
Confidence is key. The Western look is bold and expressive, so wear it proudly! Embrace the rich history and style of the American West.
Conclusion
Dressing Western allows guys to connect with a rich cultural heritage while expressing their personal style. By starting with the foundational pieces like jeans, Western shirts, and cowboy boots, and expanding your wardrobe with layers, outerwear, and accessories, you can create an authentic yet modern take on this classic American look. Invest in quality pieces, wear them confidently, and you'll be embracing your inner cowboy in no time!
Richard Sutherland
RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.orgRichard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.