A resurgence in Western fashion and lifestyle trends is sweeping across the entertainment landscape, with cultural influences ranging from television series to music. The phenomenon, often linked to the success of the show Yellowstone, continues to gain traction, appealing to a diverse audience.
The television series debuted in 2018, featuring Kevin Costner as a patriarch of a Montana ranching family. Spanning five seasons, its popularity has led to additional streaming productions and an influx of related merchandise, including jewelry by Kendra Scott and eyewear from Diff. Notably, the Four Sixes Ranch Steakhouse at Wynn Las Vegas is named after the Texas ranch associated with series creator Taylor Sheridan.
Music also plays a pivotal role in sustaining this trend. The recent release of Beyoncé‘s album titled Cowboy Carter in 2024 showcased her in a rodeo-inspired outfit, further fueling the Western fashion movement. Additionally, CBS launched a new series, The Road, featuring musicians vying to be opening acts for country star Keith Urban. The show, produced in part by Blake Shelton and Taylor Sheridan, highlights the growing influence of country music on fashion.
Western wear has deep roots in Colorado, where it has traditionally been a staple. Unlike the flashy “Urban Cowboy” trend of the 1980s, today’s Western fashion is more focused on heritage and lifestyle. Taylor Woodard, owner of The Shop Outpost on E. Colfax Ave, notes that wearing cowboy boots and hats can evoke a sense of nostalgia and freedom, tapping into an authentic American heritage.
Woodard opened her shop not just out of personal passion for Western wear, but also in response to a demand for sustainable fashion. She appreciates the younger demographic that seeks to combat fast fashion by opting for vintage pieces. “They recognize the environmental impact of clothing production,” she stated, emphasizing the unique craftsmanship of vintage items.
The store’s popularity extends to hosting hat parties, where guests can customize their Western hats, fostering a sense of community and celebration. This trend is mirrored in Denver’s Cherry Creek North shopping area, where other retailers like Hats by Parker Thomas and Rancher Hat Bar offer similar experiences.
Denver Fashion Week showcased the continued appeal of Western wear, featuring it as a theme night for the second consecutive year. Runway producer Nikki Strickler emphasized the significance of trend-casting in selecting designers and retailers. This year, collections from brands like Rockmount Ranch Wear and Bailey Heyman garnered attention for their innovative takes on Western fashion.
Another noteworthy event was the Double D Ranchwear fashion show held in September, organized by Angela S. Lieurance and attended by approximately 200 women. The event highlighted the craftsmanship of Double D, known for its intricate designs that incorporate various elements such as fur, studs, and embroidery. Lieurance expressed her desire to bring this high-end Texas brand to Colorado, where it is not widely available.
Historically, Western wear reflects Colorado’s rich cultural tapestry, blending influences from Spanish cattle culture, Native American traditions, and European settlers. Tara Kaufman, associate curator at History Colorado, notes that Western wear is not only a classic style but also a versatile expression of American identity.
The practicality of Western attire adds to its appeal; pointed-toe boots are designed for riding, while wide-brim hats offer sun protection. Colorado has been pivotal in the Western wear industry, with companies like Miller Stockman and Rockmount Ranch Wear established in the state, helping to popularize this enduring style.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the Western culture, Denver offers various venues. The newly opened Belles & Boots country bar joins Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row as a Western-themed entertainment destination. The Grizzly Rose, a local institution since 1989, remains a popular spot for live music and line dancing.
Recently, Neon Cowboy debuted in Denver’s Washington Park neighborhood, serving coffee and light bites by day and cocktails by night. For a more traditional dining experience, venues like The Buckhorn Exchange and The Fort continue to offer Western-themed meals.
Visitors looking for accommodations can consider the Urban Cowboy Hotel in Capitol Hill, which features uniquely decorated suites in a historic setting. This hotel is part of a small chain that includes locations in Nashville and Brooklyn.
As the Western trend continues to evolve, it reflects a blend of nostalgia and modernity, appealing to a wide range of consumers eager to embrace a distinctive American style.
