A Beginner’s Guide to Houston Rodeo Fashion

The Houston Rodeo is more than just an exciting event—it's a celebration of Western culture, music, and, of course, style. Whether you're new to the rodeo scene or looking to refine your rodeo look, here’s a beginner’s guide to help you put together the perfect ensemble for a day of fun, food, and entertainment.

1. Cowboy Boots: The Foundation of Your Look

Cowboy boots are the cornerstone of any rodeo outfit, and they come in countless styles and colors. Whether you go for a classic brown leather boot or opt for a pop of color like burnt orange or bold blue, comfort should be your top priority. After all, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, dancing, and exploring the grounds, so make sure your boots are supportive. If you’re breaking in a new pair, be sure to do so before the big event.

For those looking to step up their game, add some personality to your boots. Intricate embroidery, rhinestones, or custom designs can help you stand out. Popular spots for finding your perfect pair include:

• Cavender’s Boot City (South Loop): A massive selection of cowboy boots at various price points.
• Miron Crosby (Dallas, Aspen, and recently in Houston): Luxury, custom boots that reflect your unique style.
• Republic Boot Co. (Houston): Custom boots and unique niche designs, with a catalog full of options. Plan ahead—custom designs can take a week or more to make.

2. Cowboy Hats: Top Off Your Rodeo Ensemble

No rodeo outfit is complete without a cowboy hat. It’s not only a classic addition to your outfit but also a practical one to shield you from the Texas sun. Traditional wide-brimmed felt hats in timeless colors like brown or black are always a solid choice, but don’t be afraid to make a statement with vibrant colors like pink or ruby red.

The fit is crucial, as you want your hat to stay in place while you enjoy the festivities. Consider customizing your hat with a decorative hat band featuring feathers, beads, or your initials for a personalized touch. Local stores for the perfect hat include:

• The Hat Store (Houston): A variety of styles and expert advice on finding the best fit.
• Pinto Ranch (Houston): An upscale store offering a wide range of cowboy hats, from classic to bold colors and custom designs.

3. Denim: The Rodeo Uniform

Denim is the universal language of the rodeo. Whether you choose bell bottoms, flare styles, or a classic skinny fit, denim pairs perfectly with cowboy boots for a look that exudes rugged charm. For a head-to-toe denim style, consider pairing your jeans with a matching denim jacket for a chic double-denim look.

Feeling bold? Look for denim pieces with unique embroidery, distressing, or jewel embellishments to add some flair. Dark washes offer a more refined look, while distressed denim channels a more edgy vibe—either way, denim is essential to your rodeo ensemble.

You can find excellent denim pieces at:

• Wrangler Store (Houston): Known for its classic Western styles, including high-quality denim jeans and jackets.
• Levi’s Store (Houston): For timeless, durable denim that’s versatile enough for both the rodeo and everyday wear.

4. Flowy Dresses and Skirts: Southern Elegance

For those looking for something a bit more feminine or breezy, flowy dresses and skirts are a must. Floral prints and pastel hues are perfect for capturing the charm of Southern elegance. Go for a short dress for a casual vibe or a long dress for a more sophisticated look. Dresses are ideal for warmer days, while skirts pair beautifully with a denim jacket or vest for a stylish Western twist.

Loose skirts also add a flirty touch to your outfit, especially when paired with chunky accessories or statement jewelry. Just remember to dress for the weather to stay comfortable all day.

You can find beautiful dresses and skirts at:

• Anthropologie (Houston): Known for its bohemian-inspired pieces, perfect for a flowy, relaxed rodeo look.
• Free People (Houston): Offers an array of romantic, boho-inspired dresses and skirts ideal for the rodeo.

5. Jackets: When the Sun Sets, Stay Stylish

As the evening cools down, a stylish jacket becomes a rodeo necessity. Classic fringe jackets never go out of style, but don’t be afraid to explore modern alternatives like cropped denim jackets or oversized leather bombers. For extra flair, look for jackets with embellishments like studs, patches, or feathers. This is your chance to add personality to your outfit while keeping warm.

You can find stylish jackets at:

• Pinto Ranch (Houston): Premium outerwear with a Western flair, including leather and fringe jackets.
• Nordstrom (Houston): A great selection of denim, leather, and fringe jackets to complete your rodeo look.

6. Leather: Add Edge to Your Outfit

A touch of leather can elevate any rodeo look. If you’re feeling daring, consider wearing leather pants (just make sure they’re not too tight to avoid discomfort). Go for classic brown or tan tones for a polished look, or opt for jet black leather for a more edgy, rock-and-roll vibe.

Leather can be found at:

• Lucchese (Houston): A high-end Western brand offering a selection of leather accessories, jackets, and footwear.
• Schott NYC (Houston): A great place for leather jackets and vests that bring an urban edge to your Western look.

7. Accessories: The Devil’s in the Details

Accessories are what truly elevate your rodeo look. Bolo ties, bandanas, and scarves add a touch of Western authenticity to your ensemble. Don’t forget to incorporate statement jewelry like chunky gemstone necklaces, silver concho belts, or oversized earrings to add that extra spark.

Rodeo grounds are filled with vendors selling unique accessories, so take advantage of the opportunity to find the perfect finishing touches to complete your outfit.

You can find accessories at:

• Gaby & Grace (Houston): For unique, fun accessories like Texas flag cowboy boot earrings or custom-designed jewelry.
• Boot Barn (Houston): A wide selection of belts, bolo ties, and Western-inspired jewelry.

8. Kitschy Touches: Have Fun with Your Look

Inject a bit of humor or irony into your rodeo look to show off your personality. Rock a vintage graphic tee with a fun slogan or try playful accessories, like Texas flag cowboy boot earrings from Gaby and Grace. If cowboy hats aren’t your thing, opt for an ironic trucker hat from Bottom Shelf, a Houston-based brand that carries hats with witty sayings like “This actually is my first rodeo” or “Shoulda learned to rope and ride.”

Bottom Shelf (Houston): A local brand that’s all about embracing the quirky side of rodeo culture.

The key to rodeo fashion is fun and confidence. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pieces and find the combination that speaks to your personal style.

The Houston Rodeo is a chance to embrace Western culture and express your individuality through fashion. Whether you’re going all out with boots, hats, and fringe or opting for something more relaxed like a flowy dress or kitschy accessories, the most important thing is to have fun with your outfit. After all, rodeo fashion is about showcasing your unique style while enjoying the spirit of this iconic event. Enjoy the rodeo, and let your style shine!