subject: A Quick Guide To Cowboy Western Apparel [print this page] cowboy western apparel has become a popular style that has moved far from its home on the range. You can now find a western store in virtually all cities across the nation as well as some foreign ones. There are also a large number of sites where you can make your purchases online.
A Stetson is the most popular style of cowboy hats. These were first sold just after the Civil War. The hat features a high crown and wide brim, and was efficient in keeping the sun off the face. There are many different ways to crease the crown so that everyone can add a personal touch. They were often worn with a hatband made of beadwork, braided leather, or silver for additional customization.
Boots had features that served a purpose. The toes were pointed to make it easier to get the foot into and out of stirrups. The extended tops gave some protection from snake bites, under brush, and the scraping of stirrups. Heels were large and chunky to keep the feet in place when mounted and to dig in if wrestling with a horse or cow when on foot.
The bandanna was more than just a fashion accessory. It covered the cowboy's mouth and nose during dust storms and offered protection against the sun. It could also double as a wash cloth to clean dust from his face while crossing a stream or watering the herd.
For a church picnic or dance, cowboys usually dressed up, often adding a string tie to their ensembles. Cloth or ribbon types were usually tied into a bow. Bolos or braided styles normally sported a clasp that slid into place and could be quite plain or very ornate.
Blue jeans are standard items in western wear. Boot cut styles were made to slip over the top of his boots. Dressier trousers, however, were normally made of wool and usually replaced jeans for dances or church services.
Leather has always had a place in western wear. Buckskin jackets, with or without fringe or beadwork, have been popular since the days of the mountain men. Leather chaps were an important part of the cowboy's gear, protecting him from scratches in the undergrowth. Belts were often intricately tooled, although buckles were not as ornate as modern offerings.
Most styles of western shirts on the market today are adaptations of styles worn by early rodeo cowboys. They have a unique yoke and feature snaps more often than buttons on the front and cuffs. They will almost always have two patch pockets on the front.
