Western fashion has created many different styles. And each of them has become a part of cowgirl outfits ideas. Say you have a party or hangout to attend and the dress code is cowgirl outfits, how would you go about pulling it off?
Would you look to Pinterest, Instagram, or maybe a Google search? Whichever one of the three would work. But first, you have to know the basics. What makes up cowgirl outfits? What would a typical cowgirl wear?
That’s what this piece will show you. From denim to boots, belts, hats, fringes, and what have you, you’ll see how to turn all your cowgirl outfit ideas into distinct looks worth recreating.
Let’s dive in.
Who is a Cowgirl?
A cowgirl is a woman (mostly in the western US) who herds and tends cows and horses. She most times performs her work on horseback. These women have clothing choices peculiar to them. Two of such are their hat and boots.
But a cowgirl is more than a cattle rearer. She stands to represent every strong-willed woman who’s focused on achieving her dreams. She’s opinionated, sassy, smart, bold, and industrious.
So when you pull off cowgirl outfit ideas, know for sure you’re using fashion to show the inner traits that make you admirable.
How to Pull off Cowgirl Outfits Ideas with Modern Vibe
Cowgirl outfits have evolved over the years. Back in the day, a traditional cowgirl wore a pair of gauntlets, a short skirt, tall lace-up boots, a sash, a red scarf, and animal-inspired accessories. Buckaroo’s blog captures it best:
“The sash was probably a style adopted from Charlie Russell who, inspired by the vaquero costume, always wore a red sash. One famous cowgirl, Prairie Rose Henderson wore ostrich plumes over her bloomers and a blouse covered with bright sequins.
The cowgirl riding gauntlets came in a wide variety of commercial designs and were often sold at Western trading posts. Inspired by cavalry gauntlets, cowboys and cowgirls adopted the style of the work glove embellished with various Indian designs. Many were embroidered with horseshoes and whips, others were decorated in buckskin fringe. Cowgirls wore gauntlets for work and in the show arena.”
Buckaroo’s blog
Today, all that has changed to reflect modernity. So if you want to dress like a cowgirl but don’t want to look old-fashioned, go for quality and effective gear. Or better still, follow these tips to the letter. They’re not only cute but also very comfortable and perfect for any weather condition.
Invest in Denim
Cowgirls love to wear jeans. And if you wanna look like one, you need denim pieces in your wardrobe. This could be jeans, denim midi skirts, denim shirts, and denim jackets.
If you’re going to be riding a horse go for jeans for comfort and mobility. The best types of jeans for this outfit are bell bottoms, straight-cut jeans, bootcut, etc
Get Prairie Dresses
These 19th-century-inspired dresses are a must-have for cowgirls. Prairie dresses add a feminine touch to your wardrobe. They feature floral and paisley prints with flowy, ruffle skirts and lacy high-necked tops and dresses that give off a Victorian/Western vibe.
Prairie dresses are comfy for both an indoor and outdoor look. And as a cowgirl, you need one of them.
Wear Cowboy Boots
Brown or black knee-high boots are more or less what sums up a cowboy or cowgirl look. The sweetest thing about them is that you can pair them with any other outfit to create western looks beyond cowgirl outfit ideas.
Cowboy boots keep your feet warm when it’s cold. In addition, they’re perfect for your short dresses in warm climates. Also, besides being a stylish staple, boots protect your feet when you’re riding horses or not.
Invest in a Western Belt
A western belt isn’t like other belts. It’s one with a bohemian-tinged look that makes it unique. Go for a minimalist design with a statement buckle.
These belts come in handy when it’s time to keep your skirts and pants in place or cinch your waist whenever you wear a free dress.
Buy a Fringe Jacket
Fringe jackets are statement pieces. It’s your regular denim, leather, corduroy, suede, or plaid jacket. The difference is that it has a decorative fringe that elevates its look.
Use your fringe jacket to layer your outfit when creating cowgirl outfit ideas. You’ll love your look.
Keep Your Cowboy Hat Handy
Yes, your cowgirl outfit is never complete if you don’t don a hat. Not just any wide-brimmed hat but a hat specially designed for cowgirls.
These hats protect your face from harsh sun rays. They also transform your look into a standout one.
There are many different types of cowboy hats to choose from. If you’re going for a more modern look, wear a felt hat or a straw hat. But if you want a classic cowgirl look, then go for one made of leather.
Long-Sleeved Shirts
The popular prints for cowgirl long-sleeved shirts are plaid, embroidered, and striped. You need these shirts to save your hands from mosquito bites.
Furthermore, they also look good when paired with a nice pair of jeans (any type you want) and a western belt.
Jewelry
No outfit you create is ever complete without jewelry. These accessories are the dot to your i and the cross to your t. They add a touch of style to any outfit.
For a timeless cowgirl outfit, go for a simple necklace or bracelet or a chunky necklace or earrings.
Other Items You Need to Pull off Cowgirl Outfits Ideas
- Striped tees
- Graphic tees
- Brown sandals
- Denim shorts
- Khaki shorts
- Solid-colored T-shirts
- Sweater
- Back jeans
- Converse sneakers
- Off-shoulder top
- White jeans
- White shirt
- Distressed jeans
What not to Wear as a Cowgirl
Don’t wear clothes that are too revealing or tight. Such clothes don’t support the activities of a typical cowgirl. Furthermore, don’t look too casual. If you noticed, most cowgirl outfit ideas are smart casual.
So, keep your ripped jeans, activewear, and athleisure pieces aside when pulling off this look.