Why are Fashion Designers Choosin’ Texas as their Inspiration

You don’t have to be from Texas to notice the the current “Cowboy Core” craze flooding the fashion scene. And you don’t even have to go to a western wear store to find it. During a recent trip to Dillard’s, the western style wave was evident–everywhere!

True western wear has been around for centuries, so why is it becoming so popular right now? Pop culture–that’s why. Have you heard of something called the “Yellowstone Effect?” Rugged TV dramas like Yellowstone (and its many spin-offs), Landman, Ransom Canyon, and other serie are bringing Southwest style to the forefront.

Then there’s COUNTRY MUSIC! If you haven’t heard Ella Langley’s hit song “Choosin’ Texas,” you must be living under a rock in the desert. It has overtaken Mariah Carey’s all-time blockbuster, “All I Want for Christmas is You,” as the longest running number one hit. (Carey’s song previously held the record at 22 weeks, while Langley’s went on to beat it at 23 weeks.)

Western wear isn’t just confined to the rodeo anymore. Major fashion designers are currently incorporating suede, leather, fringe, embroidery, lace, pearl studs, and turquoise into their garments. Take a look at these chic western pieces I found at Dillard’s.

Fringe jackets, shirts, and vests

Double Denim

Cow Prints (Move over, cheetah and leopard.)

Now, I probably wouldn’t wear these together, but each piece has a uniquely western flair.

Embroidery is also Having a Moment

These two pieces are from the Reba collection.

Southwestern Prints and Motifs

Some Patterns Just Scream COWBOY

While others just whisper.

This little retro cowgirl skirt set was my favorite. Did any of you have cowgirl outfits like this when you were young?

And these dresses.

Just imagine these simple dresses with a pair of statement cowboy boots.

The nice thing about all these pieces is that you can choose a single item to wear (whether it be jeans, or a shirt/sweater/vest) and it will give your entire outfit a modern western flair.

You don’t have to wait around for a rodeo or a State Fair to add a piece of western wear to your wardrobe. Wear it anytime and simply have fun with it.

The choice is always yours.