Western style has always been something that I have
disliked. The over-abundance of denim, false-virginity of prairie skirts, and
the shameful misuse of glitter (sorry Dolly Parton, but too much is too much) makes me physically ill, so
I was loath to discover that the Wild West seemed to be cropping up again and
again on style blogs recently. Thankfully, the old clichés seem to be largely
gone and the trend seems to be more for Western influences and accessories than
an all out cow-town revolution. Praise the shoe gods for that, since my
city-girl mind can totally handle the interesting contrast between the Wild
Wild West and urbanity! In particular there are four trends that I’m getting
behind whole-heartedly: feminine fringe, snakeskin footwear, unexpected bandanna
paisley, and (of course) repurposed denim.
Depending on the material, fringe can cross some interesting
borders. Leather and lace fringes were common in the clothing of the Roma
(gypsy) populations of Europe and the native peoples of North America, but most
modern viewpoints are reminiscent of cowboys as well. I’ve always loved fringed
purses (I have a signature silver fringed tote), but I’m also really starting
to like the fringed lace shawls that I’m seeing kicking around. They might have
become popular again due to the Stevie Nicks and American Horror Story
influence, but the style definitely screams vintage American bohemian.
In their live form, I am absolutely terrified of snakes, but
maybe that’s what makes snakeskin footwear (the fake stuff – jeez) so
satisfying: I have those suckers in a place where they’re harmless. Whether
it’s Louboutin pumps, sneakers, loafers, or ballet flats, snakeskin seems to
be the animal shoe graphic of 2014.
Paisley is a rather odd print. In its more psychedelic hues
it can be identified with the 1960s, and bandannas seem to have become more
associated with gangs than cowboys. But when it’s classic white on red or blue,
once again my brain thinks of Ralph Lauren, classic America, and ranches.
Banana paisley seems to be making a comeback specifically in menswear – and in
very surprising places. From bow ties to dress shirts, or city-slicker men are
taking it back to the Wild Wild West. (Will Smith reference very much
intended).
It wouldn’t be possible to post about Western fashion
without including a mention of denim. Ever-practical, denim long ago moved away
from being simply a working Joe’s staple and became a couture commodity. I
figure as long as we steer clear of denim overalls (or any overalls in
general…) and the Brittney+Justin couples’ outfits then let the denim trend
reign free.
images from Tumblr
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