@@VideovigilanteUSA As a German, a Non-American who enjoys Western wear, I'd assume because of the versatility of its color, since it'll probably go with most other colors without sticking out too much. A square toe boot is practical since it won't catch onto things as much as an elongated, pointy tip. I personally wouldn't consider it a must-have and might go with other styles of boots though. I think a brown-gray ankle boot with either a round toe or pointy-square toe is just as versatile, especially if you consider wearing it less formal or with other western items such as a western jeans shirt, a ranch jacket with a sherpa type of collar, a brown coach or western jacket or anything else. It's up to you! Take my suggestions with a grain of salt, though, as I'm neither an expert nor is western wear embedded in my tradition. Greetings from Bavaria 🇩🇪🤝🇺🇲
I’ve been looking forward to this one for a while! Classic western wear definitely has a long and storied history and blends surprisingly well with other classic menswear styles.
Born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago but lived in colorado for 15 years. Western wear is dope af when done right. from white dudes to tricked out caballeros.
In central Idaho- western wear is simply what we wear. It’s practical, hardy, and the style most embraced in our stores & closets. The staple of our looks. Thanks for diving into this one. It was very enjoyable. We apply many of the style concepts that y’all instruct on- applied to our western wear - so thanks again!
In Arizona, western wear to us(especially where I live) is just what we wear. My grandpa(Pa) gave me most of his "Sunday go to meetin'" clothes, and they have a pretty good, classic style feel. So, as a western wear and classic style enthusiast, this video is for me.
I live in northern México, the western wear here is basically our regional uniform. The harsh weather and the cattle meadows made the western wear culturally rooted, even with the urbanization, western wear is a go-to (the CDMX citizens loves to mocks us calling our state a ranch for that).
Snaps let your shirt be pull off if caught on horns or fences. Yokes are extra thick to keep the sun off. Closer fits mean you get caught on fewer things. If you are around barbed wire you know this.
I've been waiting for this one for a long time. I love classic 1940's and 50's western wear. Rodeo Ben style pearl snaps and Wrangler cowboy cut jeans.
Thanks for making this video fellas! Living in Montana, it’s hard to balance my love of more urban and traditional gentlemanly style with what is more appropriate and elegant out here.
I have worn western elements in my wardrobe since the 70’s, as I consider it an American style that never goes away. Its popularity goes up and down but it’s always there, and I like it.
It's nice to see Western wear get some attention here. My go-to outfit in the warmer months is a sports coat, proper cowboy cut Wranglers, western boots, a button down, and a cowboy hat to literally top it off. I get near daily compliments on the hat, it's a standout piece. If you're going to adorn Western wear, you need to rock it with confidence. Act like you belong in it, and people will respect it. Act self-conscious, and people won't take you seriously.
I’ve worn elements of western my entire life. Being an outdoors person, and having worked in a farm when I was younger I’ve found it to be very practical. A straw cowboy hat in the summer keeps my head and face shaded and cool. A felt hat in the winter keeps my head warm and dry if it rains. I wear cowboy boots most of the time I wear jeans or slacks. I’ve gotten compliments when wearing my boots with khakis and a polo or OBS. If you wear a cowboy hat, own it. Find a hat that you look good in and wear it everywhere. I get compliments on several of my hats, especially the felt hats.
If you guys are looking for more western styling without breaking the bank on a Stetson hat, I recommend Ariat! They do boots, Jeans, shirts, jackets, the whole nine yards. High quality product, rugged look, durable clothes and it wont make your bank account cry (eh, too hard anyway) OH and to answer the question posted, yes. I wear my western boots quite literally every day, they are the most comfortable shoes I own and offer superb protection while at work.
A well done video, thanks. For me and probably a lot of others, it’s a matter of heritage. I spent my career wearing suits behind a desk but I’m barely a generation away from ranch/farm work. I wear western clothing when appropriate, such as certain concerts. I don’t feel like I’m playing (cosplay) anymore than I do when wearing jeans while doing yard work.
I live in Lubbock , Texas. My Sunday best is a Schaefer wool vest, button down GS shirt, creased wranglers ( 13MWZ) and dress boots. That’s my best from September to April.
I often incorporate western elements into my wardrobe, especially in my casual attire. I frequently buy from the online retailers shown. One thing not mentioned in the history was the Urban Cowboy period.
I live in the south, and you see this quite often. I myself own a single pair of boots, purely for how rugged and nearly indestructible they are. I also have an old style oilcloth duster that I've had forever, and it's similarly indestructible. Completely waterproof with a zip out lining, it's good for rainy days any season, and excellent for cold winter days as well. Might be more practical than fashionable, but at my age, I'm starting to lean more towards practicality than trying to look good.
I really liked this video. Thanks! I was a bit surprised not to see a mention of the (much anticipated) Black Tie and Boots Inauguration Ball that happens every 4 years in the US.
Love this video! I've been experimenting with the crossover for years and quite frankly some great examples I like to draw from are Hank Williams' outfits. I've noticed a lot of merging the aesthetics is a matter of embracing accessories in the styles that work in the Southwestern US. I'm of the opinion that drape cut suits are much more flattering when paired with cowboy hats and particularly cowboy boots than more slim Italian styles. Trousers with more drape and a looser cut will always compliment the cowboy boot more so than "cigarette" pants. Double-breasted waistcoats/jackets also tend to widen one's silhouette and emulate the same effect of a serape or poncho. If you really do want to show off your colorful and eye-catching serape/poncho, or you simply want a culturally-relevant method of covering your suit in the case of inclement weather, you can actually look quite smart by folding it in fourths longways and throwing it over your non-dominant shoulder like a large sash; if you feel it's a bold move, then there's a good chance you're beginning to do Western attire justice. Texans especially, are a subdued type of gaudy and will go out of their way to compliment a silver belt buckle, a fine pair of alligator boots, a turquoise or agate bolo tie, a paisley-pattern tie or shirt, and a snakeskin hatband. Feel free to mix and match once you've got a good grasp on your classic menswear basics, then in true Western fashion make a big impression.
My shoe collection contains 4 pairs of western boots, both calf skin and ostrich. Great to wear in the winter. Plus a Stetson, again great for the winter.
Great show! I manage to use Western wear in in conjunctions with the sportcoat for teaching my classes at a college in Florida. And no, the open button-down will never be replaced by the Western shirt. Because the pointed collar will always end up curling up and the button-down always presents the uniform look. Western shirts, because they don’t come with the more rigid removable collar stay cannot compete with the more sophisticated and consistent BD collar look, it’s just too casual. Way cooler in some situations, but too casual. although the cinch shirts are pretty formal and can be easily used in a variety of fashion settings.
From the UK and when I visited Texas as a Teen, I couldn’t help getting a few items, like a cowboy style hat (Bullhide brand - have no idea if they are a well known brand in the US), a big ol’ belt buckle and a string tie, I already had the cowboy inspired Chelsea boots, Levi’s and a flannel shirt. I still have the items over 20 years later
Eight or nine years ago, a huge part of my style was based on Raylan Givens' look from "Justified." Then I stopped wearing it because it felt like such a big commitment. It's hard to wear sneakers when you're known for cowboy boots. I started wearing dress boots instead. Now, as an electrician, I wear cowboy boots all the time. Full circle.
I feel seen. I'm an immigrant to western Canada, and I've embraced elements of the Western style. Most of my wardrobe is flannel shirts. It's completely normal here. My denim sherpa jacket from Levi's is a frequently complimented item. I have a pair of thrifted Alberta Boot Company boots and new Boulet boots. They are not the most comfortable though because of the high heels unfortunately.
Thank you, Preston. This exploration of the history of Western wear has given me a greater appreciation of a sartorial genre of which I have never been especially fond.
My father's dress-up outfit was a suit about two-thirds "Tombstone" and one-third "Mad Men" which my mom custom-made for him. He had the classic gunslinger look -- tall and lean, with an angular face and mustache -- so it suited him perfectly. He got compliments on it even in big-city corporate environments.
Working outdoors in Arizona made me appreciate my stetson and vintage 70s western leather jacket. Combined with a more subtle bolo tie, it never fails to get positive attention
Great topic. While I tend more towards "utalitarian" looks even when suiting up, and while I really love the look of a classic, woolen, western cut sports coat or suit jacket, I feel like one would need to go all out on the look, including boots and a hat, which tips it into the costume department if one is not actually from parts where this is part of the culture and heritage. That being said, I own quite a few western shirts (mostly checked) for leisure wear, as they pair well with denims and leather jackets.
I'm from rural Texas. I typically wear a t-shirt (white for ranch work, graphic for being out and about in public) boot cut jeans (faded for ranch work, nice and dark for out and about in public), a belt with a big square buckle that has the family brand on it, cowboy boots, and a cowboy hat. For church, I will wear a button-up shirt over a white t-shirt, same jeans and boots but no hats in church obviously. For formal events, I will typically wear a sports coat and tie with a solid-color button-up shirt, khakis for pants, and the same belt, boots, and hat. Felt hat for winter and straw hat for summer. If it's spring or fall, just go with whichever one feels right depending on the weather. My last piece of advice is that if you're having to research this stuff, Western Wear is probably not for you.
Ah yes. This video hits me where I live. I do indeed include bits and pieces of western wear in my classic style. I frequently wear nicely polished cowboy boots with my three piece suits. In fact, I just took delivery of a 3 pc. corduroy suit with boot cut trousers The vest has commodious pockets for my pocket watch. And of course jeans are a staple in cooler weather, with or without boots. As far as hats go, I stay clear of the cowboy hat. For some reason they don't fit my face. The fedora or newsboy cap suits me better for cooler weather, the Panama for summer. Another item I stay away from are belts generally, and belts with great, huge, & showy buckles especially. They scratch up the finishes on my guitars. I can't have that. Suspenders do just fine. I have in the past worn western cut shirts. And would do so again. Come to think of it, a western cut shirt might look pretty sharp with that corduroy suit mentioned above.
Please do more on this; I'd like to know how to adapt these NATURAL, ENVIRONMENTALLY FITTING clothing styles to classic menswear. Our clothes are not a costume.
I live in western boots and hats. I wear them with everything from daily casual to dress suits. Suits and sport coats can be had with western yoke construction. I favor brown, tan in my suits.
I live in Calgary, so I basically dress like a flamboyant cowboy all summer. Edit: Smithbilt hats are the best western hats in the world, in case Stetson doesn't work for you.
I live near Virginia City, NV (once the largest city west of the Mississippi), a historic town with many original buildings from the mid-1850's. Western wear is popular both Traditional (people love to wear it to visit Virginia City, it fits right in) and classic/contemporary is worn by many people both men & women. I often wear a frock coat in the winter, the long length cuts the wind and keeps me warmer. Plus a nice belt, boots and of course hat summer & winter. Practical & stylish.
Hollywood 'Western wear' is about as historically accurate as Hollywood style gun belts. Not to say that there are not Western styles, just to note that they are much more modern than most imagine them to be. And styles is indeed key word. You are quite right that Western wear means different things in different places. Florida ranch culture is not exactly the same as Arizona ranch culture, and both are quite different from what you will see in the logging or mining regions of the northern Rockies and PNW. Some share similarities (bolo ties common to both FL and AZ) others are quite different (Pendleton blanket based outerwear and lace up style packer boots being much more common the further north, or higher in elevation you go.) And Eastwood wasn't so much 'challenging' the status quo as getting by with what was available in the places where those iconic movies were filmed - Spain. His later movies - Pale Rider, Unforgiven, etc. were much more historically grounded.) The weak link of your outfit is not the boots, it's the belt. It should be 1 1/2" or 1 3/4" to better fill the belt loops. Tooling or stitching optional. Oh, and while western style belt buckles may be an option AVOID any rodeo buckles UNLESS you have actually competed in that rodeo. This is only slightly less worse than wearing military ribbons that you have not earned.
That's so funny! I've been following your channel for years, and I just bought myself some cowboy boots. I wondered what you guys would think about that...
Thank you for this video. I sport a snap button flannel shirt combined with a bolo tie sometimes. Not too flashy for Europe, but still a statement piece. And while I'd probably never wear a Nudie suit, I would definitely like to see a video about them.
The "spurred you on" pun was unexpected and caused me to physically flinch. Well done! Retailers for Civil War re-enactment would not be a bad place to start for some traditional-style western wear, including frock and sack coats, as well as earlier styles of shirts and trousers. They're often of very good construction and material, as they're meant not only to be historically accurate but also functional while camping, marching, and throwing yourself on the ground after being "shot."
This is a great video. As a Texan, I own several pairs of bespoke cowboy boots (ML Leddy, Little's, Paul Bond, etc.). I wear them with jeans or dress trousers, oxford shirt, and blazer. A Silverbelly Stetson Open Road to top it all off 😉. Works for work and leisure here.
12:10 Timothy Olyphant in Justified. I tried that style once in a shop for western boots and hats here in Hanmburg, Germany. I had a grey three piece business suit on, cause I came from work. It felt good to wear boots with the suit. I thougt I was good looking - even with the almost white Stetson. And still... no ,I am not going to wear that. It is a heritage statement to my opinion. I wont wear a kilt unless I am of scotish heritage either. Again a great video. This time made in US for US.
Though I don't wear classic stetson hats, I often wear a Duster in winter that is from Outback Co. I sometimes will wear contemporary cowboy style work boots, jeans or sturdy chinos, and "outback style" wide brimmed fedora with that. Often a scarf and sturdy winter gloves. It gives off western vibes but it clearly contemporary work wear with western flare.
Awesome video! I'd love to see more videos about western wear in the future. Be sure to get yourself a pair of cowboy boots, a western belt buckle, and a cowboy hat next time.
Omg I just got a proper rodeo king fitted for me about two weeks ago! It’s my new favorite item, it’s totally dorky but I feel so confident in it, and it’s definitely made me happy to try more properly fitted hats!
There's a guy I see sometimes wearing the full cowboy outfit - shirt with those upper chest/shoulder bits, big cowboy hat and all, shoes and jeans and such with a ponytail to top it off - looks like a middle aged guy living somewhere in Texas or Nevada and such. Just one problem, though - west of the Mississippi, it's not too weird. But this guy is a couple of thousand kilometers to the east. Specifically, smack dab in the middle of southeast Europe, in Serbia. Guy looks like an actor in a costume for a play set in the Wild West. Surreal!
i have a few pairs of cowboy boots i wear casually. however i wear western style hats almost all the time, even fully suited. slightly smaller, as i usually wear a 3.5" brim, but its still clearly western style hat. i have light grey, light brown, dark brown, and black. i have some straw ones but dont wear them with suits, i wear a panama style hat instead in the heat.
Zip cowboy boots are compatible with suits and straight leg jeans. Cuadra has a wide selection and so does Tecovas (and they both sell other “western items”). Cuadra are particularly nice since Mexican boots have lower heels (so they wear more like shoes, but keep your socks drier in messy streets). In addition, “dressy” cowboy boots are in exotic leather.
classic western wear derives its origins from traditional mexican stylings from 1800s and before. This is where it picked up its vibrant and ornate appearance, as traditional mexican cowboy “vaqueros” style is very ornate. Growing up as a mexican american, i saw a ton of this growing up. it still is very common for most men to wear a pair of cowboy boots, a western suit, a cowboy hat, or even jeans to weddings, funerals, quinceneras, or any major events in life. I also practice this myself! Its a great way to remain stylish and uphold my heritage
I’m not even sure what to say. As I am from a family that ranges from Nebraska to Idaho, farm to cattle, I’ll tell you “western” is a fashion thing. You hit the nail on the head with more Yellowstone being real all the rest is really either tv/movies or fashion model most that most farmers/ranchers/actual cowboys would be caught dead in
Dear Gentleman’s Gazette, thank you for your amazing videos, I have a video idea that may be of interest: Dressing stylishly like Paul Newman. I would love to see that as you’ll have covered both McQueen and Dean. Thank you.
Close but missing some key elements….. Jeans, typically worn in longer length's with boots. Also heavy starched with creases As for boots, you have dress, casual and work boots. Makers like Lucchese are more desirable if budget allows. Hats are felt or straw and Stetson is still the most desirable
Since we are getting into styles other than the traditional mens wear, I would love to see some input on highland wear and the uniqueness of it. I've already gotten into it, but would love to see some opinons from someone outside of it.
I wear a kilt at least two or three times per month, just because I love them, although it isn't always practical for certain jobs. A kilt with dress sporran, Argyle jacket, and waistcoat looks awesome and really stands out at work. Of course a kilt also looks awesome with a t-shirt and combat boots. I do occasionally get snide comments from guys about my "skirt", but strictly compliments from women.
Aye.. love the screenshot of the longhorns for the National Western Stock Show Parade in Denver. One important missing information is the role of Denver, especially Rockmount in the creation of the western shirt design. And other brands such as H Bar C, Miller Western, etc.
Glad to hear you enjoyed the video! Out of interest, how much do you feel our videos have changed in the past five years? And which of our videos are your favorite(s)?
I dress in the historical point of view from all things.Original to the leather heel to the leather soul.Soak pipe boot to the self tie kentucky bow tie and suit From the early 1800s a place I go as wild West mercantile. In Arizona, I live in New Hampshire by order from them. As they have a lot of war Maker printer classics by skull bicycle and regular frontier classics. Really new company I bought my first pair of the non Scully old western Trousers, but I buy the wriggler frontier classics that have no name. They're made over and somewhere across seas. I still have a pair from sixth grade holding strong. I warm 14 weeks in a row before washing every single day of the week. I wear and they never seem to ask us to wear out.
If were going outside of the traditional norm, than we should defiently get a video on Highland wear. It's come a long way from where if was 200 years ago, and the King of England is a notrious fan of highland wear.
the two most important things to know about cowboy boots is 1. get the right fit 2. NEVER tuck your pants into your boots unless you're doing it to protect your pants
When I was younger and ride horses I wore cowboy boots. Most cowboy boots are terrible to walk in. Fir formal occasions I were high quality wingtips. Western snap closure shirt, sometimes with embroidery. Stetson with hat band with silver roundals. Bolo tie with old pawn silver and turquoise slide. Most of the jewelry accessories are from New Mexico native American craftsmans, and are very pricy. Used to wear silver and turquoise belt buckles, but like cowboy boots, are not practical
In the bizz we like to call the shirt you are wearing as a “pearl snap” which denotes all the characteristics you mentioned so just because something has Pearl snaps doesn’t make it a pearl snap shirt but if someone says hey are you wearing a plaid or a pearl snap to the bar tonight and the person replies with pearl snap they are talk about a shirt like the one you are wearing!
I don't remember ever seeing anyone wearing things like rhinestones unless they were in the movie or music business. I loved the 1960s. Toward the end of the 1960s and into the 1970s, our clothes were definitely more flamboyant (not the word I would have thought of) and colorful. I wore things then that would definitely get long hard stares today. The actual western wear that we wore tended to be more colorful than today but pretty much along the same lines. Today, it seems to me that non-western shirts tend to be pretty drab and my western shirts tend to be far more colorful than them, but nothing even close to what we often wore fifty years ago. Boots seem to be more showy today than they were then. In the 1960s and 1970s, my boots were not showy at all and most boots weren't all that showy. In hats, the fashion has moved more toward curled up brims. In late spring, I was walking through a grocery store with my winter felt hat on and I overheard one young woman remark on my old-style hat with the brim being much flatter. Don't get me wrong, there were rolled up brims back in the 60s and 70s, but they seem to be much more commonly seen today. Back in the 1960s and 1970s, those who wore hats generally just had the one hat for winter and summer. Many still have one hat for year round wear today, but the number of people with many hats seems more common. In my case, in the winter I wear a 7x Resistol fur hat that used to belong to my father ($50 when he bought it however many years ago that was) but he hardly wore and a cheap straw hat (the hat band cost more than the hat) for the summer. Next week, I have to go to a followup appointment with the surgeon who operated on me a couple of weeks ago in the big city. While there, I am planning on going to one of the western wear stores to have my fur hat cleaned and to buy a relatively inexpensive black felt hat for ordinary winter wear so I can basically save my Resistol to wear to church, weddings, and funerals. What I do need is a classic duster for the winter. I used to have an old over coat that fit that perfectly even though it wasn't western. I don't know what happened to that old overcoat, but it was solidly built and I would probably still be wearing it today if I could find it.
My local western store sells a lot of motorcycle apparel too. I like Ariat boots for work and riding. I would like some leather chaps so I can ride motorcycle and wear shorts at work.
As a Texan and a classic style enthusiast, this is the video I’ve been waiting for.
Yes
Thank the Lord.
Why would the first pair of Western Boots be a square black Boot?
@@VideovigilanteUSA As a German, a Non-American who enjoys Western wear, I'd assume because of the versatility of its color, since it'll probably go with most other colors without sticking out too much. A square toe boot is practical since it won't catch onto things as much as an elongated, pointy tip.
I personally wouldn't consider it a must-have and might go with other styles of boots though. I think a brown-gray ankle boot with either a round toe or pointy-square toe is just as versatile, especially if you consider wearing it less formal or with other western items such as a western jeans shirt, a ranch jacket with a sherpa type of collar, a brown coach or western jacket or anything else.
It's up to you! Take my suggestions with a grain of salt, though, as I'm neither an expert nor is western wear embedded in my tradition. Greetings from Bavaria 🇩🇪🤝🇺🇲
Same, this is right up my alley
I’ve been looking forward to this one for a while! Classic western wear definitely has a long and storied history and blends surprisingly well with other classic menswear styles.
Born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago but lived in colorado for 15 years. Western wear is dope af when done right. from white dudes to tricked out caballeros.
In central Idaho- western wear is simply what we wear. It’s practical, hardy, and the style most embraced in our stores & closets. The staple of our looks.
Thanks for diving into this one. It was very enjoyable. We apply many of the style concepts that y’all instruct on- applied to our western wear - so thanks again!
I wear a cowboy hat to work everyday. I work at an accounting firm in LA.
Ur a bum
In Arizona, western wear to us(especially where I live) is just what we wear. My grandpa(Pa) gave me most of his "Sunday go to meetin'" clothes, and they have a pretty good, classic style feel. So, as a western wear and classic style enthusiast, this video is for me.
Love some western wear here in the south. The material thickness of many “cowboy” shirts is thin and breaths well in the summer heat.
Makes sense honestly, as originally they were meant to not be super insulating
Too much poly mixed in with the cotton, though!
Not an American but I'd wear all of that. Texan style is fecking stunning.
I live in northern México, the western wear here is basically our regional uniform. The harsh weather and the cattle meadows made the western wear culturally rooted, even with the urbanization, western wear is a go-to (the CDMX citizens loves to mocks us calling our state a ranch for that).
Snaps let your shirt be pull off if caught on horns or fences. Yokes are extra thick to keep the sun off. Closer fits mean you get caught on fewer things. If you are around barbed wire you know this.
Great insight, thank you!
I've been waiting for this one for a long time. I love classic 1940's and 50's western wear. Rodeo Ben style pearl snaps and Wrangler cowboy cut jeans.
Hope you enjoyed the video!
@@gentlemansgazette I did. Excellent as always.
Twin Peaks is a show full of great examples of how Western, Country, and workwear can be blended flawlessly with classic style
yeah so true the first season in the 90's also hats were worn and didn't look off just natural!
Thanks for making this video fellas! Living in Montana, it’s hard to balance my love of more urban and traditional gentlemanly style with what is more appropriate and elegant out here.
Glad to see this getting covered, hope to watch more videos about western wear.
I have worn western elements in my wardrobe since the 70’s, as I consider it an American style that never goes away. Its popularity goes up and down but it’s always there, and I like it.
It's nice to see Western wear get some attention here. My go-to outfit in the warmer months is a sports coat, proper cowboy cut Wranglers, western boots, a button down, and a cowboy hat to literally top it off. I get near daily compliments on the hat, it's a standout piece.
If you're going to adorn Western wear, you need to rock it with confidence. Act like you belong in it, and people will respect it. Act self-conscious, and people won't take you seriously.
@jacobberk325
That's why you wear boots. Let people know you're coming.
Western Style IS Classic Style. Ask Ralph Lauren.
They mentioned him in the video.
I asked him ....
So true
You mean Nudie 😳😑🤗😬
Hombre for MEN- Joey Tribbani
I’ve worn elements of western my entire life. Being an outdoors person, and having worked in a farm when I was younger I’ve found it to be very practical. A straw cowboy hat in the summer keeps my head and face shaded and cool. A felt hat in the winter keeps my head warm and dry if it rains.
I wear cowboy boots most of the time I wear jeans or slacks. I’ve gotten compliments when wearing my boots with khakis and a polo or OBS.
If you wear a cowboy hat, own it. Find a hat that you look good in and wear it everywhere. I get compliments on several of my hats, especially the felt hats.
If you guys are looking for more western styling without breaking the bank on a Stetson hat, I recommend Ariat! They do boots, Jeans, shirts, jackets, the whole nine yards. High quality product, rugged look, durable clothes and it wont make your bank account cry (eh, too hard anyway) OH and to answer the question posted, yes. I wear my western boots quite literally every day, they are the most comfortable shoes I own and offer superb protection while at work.
My Stetson rancher is 50 years old.
Looks new.
Quality
A well done video, thanks. For me and probably a lot of others, it’s a matter of heritage. I spent my career wearing suits behind a desk but I’m barely a generation away from ranch/farm work. I wear western clothing when appropriate, such as certain concerts. I don’t feel like I’m playing (cosplay) anymore than I do when wearing jeans while doing yard work.
I live in Lubbock , Texas. My Sunday best is a Schaefer wool vest, button down GS shirt, creased wranglers ( 13MWZ) and dress boots. That’s my best from September to April.
I often incorporate western elements into my wardrobe, especially in my casual attire. I frequently buy from the online retailers shown.
One thing not mentioned in the history was the Urban Cowboy period.
I live in the south, and you see this quite often. I myself own a single pair of boots, purely for how rugged and nearly indestructible they are. I also have an old style oilcloth duster that I've had forever, and it's similarly indestructible. Completely waterproof with a zip out lining, it's good for rainy days any season, and excellent for cold winter days as well. Might be more practical than fashionable, but at my age, I'm starting to lean more towards practicality than trying to look good.
I really liked this video. Thanks! I was a bit surprised not to see a mention of the (much anticipated) Black Tie and Boots Inauguration Ball that happens every 4 years in the US.
Love this video! I've been experimenting with the crossover for years and quite frankly some great examples I like to draw from are Hank Williams' outfits. I've noticed a lot of merging the aesthetics is a matter of embracing accessories in the styles that work in the Southwestern US. I'm of the opinion that drape cut suits are much more flattering when paired with cowboy hats and particularly cowboy boots than more slim Italian styles. Trousers with more drape and a looser cut will always compliment the cowboy boot more so than "cigarette" pants. Double-breasted waistcoats/jackets also tend to widen one's silhouette and emulate the same effect of a serape or poncho. If you really do want to show off your colorful and eye-catching serape/poncho, or you simply want a culturally-relevant method of covering your suit in the case of inclement weather, you can actually look quite smart by folding it in fourths longways and throwing it over your non-dominant shoulder like a large sash; if you feel it's a bold move, then there's a good chance you're beginning to do Western attire justice. Texans especially, are a subdued type of gaudy and will go out of their way to compliment a silver belt buckle, a fine pair of alligator boots, a turquoise or agate bolo tie, a paisley-pattern tie or shirt, and a snakeskin hatband. Feel free to mix and match once you've got a good grasp on your classic menswear basics, then in true Western fashion make a big impression.
My shoe collection contains 4 pairs of western boots, both calf skin and ostrich. Great to wear in the winter. Plus a Stetson, again great for the winter.
I always try to incorporate some western culture/style when I can, thanks for the video 👍🏾
Great show! I manage to use Western wear in in conjunctions with the sportcoat for teaching my classes at a college in Florida. And no, the open button-down will never be replaced by the Western shirt. Because the pointed collar will always end up curling up and the button-down always presents the uniform look. Western shirts, because they don’t come with the more rigid removable collar stay cannot compete with the more sophisticated and consistent BD collar look, it’s just too casual. Way cooler in some situations, but too casual. although the cinch shirts are pretty formal and can be easily used in a variety of fashion settings.
You did a great job on this vid (as usual). I try to incorporate western wear into what I do, even here in good old Pittsburgh, PA.
From the UK and when I visited Texas as a Teen, I couldn’t help getting a few items, like a cowboy style hat (Bullhide brand - have no idea if they are a well known brand in the US), a big ol’ belt buckle and a string tie, I already had the cowboy inspired Chelsea boots, Levi’s and a flannel shirt. I still have the items over 20 years later
I’m going to Nashville Tennessee next month for my anniversary and I wanna look somewhat ready. Thanks for the video!!
Eight or nine years ago, a huge part of my style was based on Raylan Givens' look from "Justified." Then I stopped wearing it because it felt like such a big commitment. It's hard to wear sneakers when you're known for cowboy boots. I started wearing dress boots instead. Now, as an electrician, I wear cowboy boots all the time. Full circle.
I feel seen. I'm an immigrant to western Canada, and I've embraced elements of the Western style. Most of my wardrobe is flannel shirts. It's completely normal here. My denim sherpa jacket from Levi's is a frequently complimented item. I have a pair of thrifted Alberta Boot Company boots and new Boulet boots. They are not the most comfortable though because of the high heels unfortunately.
Thank you, Preston. This exploration of the history of Western wear has given me a greater appreciation of a sartorial genre of which I have never been especially fond.
My father's dress-up outfit was a suit about two-thirds "Tombstone" and one-third "Mad Men" which my mom custom-made for him.
He had the classic gunslinger look -- tall and lean, with an angular face and mustache -- so it suited him perfectly. He got compliments on it even in big-city corporate environments.
Working outdoors in Arizona made me appreciate my stetson and vintage 70s western leather jacket. Combined with a more subtle bolo tie, it never fails to get positive attention
Great topic. While I tend more towards "utalitarian" looks even when suiting up, and while I really love the look of a classic, woolen, western cut sports coat or suit jacket, I feel like one would need to go all out on the look, including boots and a hat, which tips it into the costume department if one is not actually from parts where this is part of the culture and heritage.
That being said, I own quite a few western shirts (mostly checked) for leisure wear, as they pair well with denims and leather jackets.
I'm from rural Texas. I typically wear a t-shirt (white for ranch work, graphic for being out and about in public) boot cut jeans (faded for ranch work, nice and dark for out and about in public), a belt with a big square buckle that has the family brand on it, cowboy boots, and a cowboy hat.
For church, I will wear a button-up shirt over a white t-shirt, same jeans and boots but no hats in church obviously. For formal events, I will typically wear a sports coat and tie with a solid-color button-up shirt, khakis for pants, and the same belt, boots, and hat. Felt hat for winter and straw hat for summer. If it's spring or fall, just go with whichever one feels right depending on the weather.
My last piece of advice is that if you're having to research this stuff, Western Wear is probably not for you.
Despite being from the UK, I am a big fan of Clint Eastwood Spaghetti Westerns! Even if I don't wear the style myself, it's certainly one I admire :)
Ah yes. This video hits me where I live. I do indeed include bits and pieces of western wear in my classic style. I frequently wear nicely polished cowboy boots with my three piece suits. In fact, I just took delivery of a 3 pc. corduroy suit with boot cut trousers The vest has commodious pockets for my pocket watch. And of course jeans are a staple in cooler weather, with or without boots.
As far as hats go, I stay clear of the cowboy hat. For some reason they don't fit my face. The fedora or newsboy cap suits me better for cooler weather, the Panama for summer.
Another item I stay away from are belts generally, and belts with great, huge, & showy buckles especially. They scratch up the finishes on my guitars. I can't have that. Suspenders do just fine.
I have in the past worn western cut shirts. And would do so again. Come to think of it, a western cut shirt might look pretty sharp with that corduroy suit mentioned above.
Please do more on this; I'd like to know how to adapt these NATURAL, ENVIRONMENTALLY FITTING clothing styles to classic menswear. Our clothes are not a costume.
Looking sharp Preston!
This is so perfectly timed, I've been watching Yellowstone 😅, up to season 4
if its possible can you guys do guides on ethnic classic menswear. I'd love to see a video on classic indian menswear❤
501s, a nice jacket, and a linen shirt + classic shoes is the ideal office wear in my part of the world.
Yep, that would pass as a smart casual in many places in Europe.
I live in western boots and hats. I wear them with everything from daily casual to dress suits.
Suits and sport coats can be had with western yoke construction.
I favor brown, tan in my suits.
I live in Calgary, so I basically dress like a flamboyant cowboy all summer.
Edit: Smithbilt hats are the best western hats in the world, in case Stetson doesn't work for you.
Every time in see RRL photo i stop and admire it, it really has an influence on me.
I live near Virginia City, NV (once the largest city west of the Mississippi), a historic town with many original buildings from the mid-1850's. Western wear is popular both Traditional (people love to wear it to visit Virginia City, it fits right in) and classic/contemporary is worn by many people both men & women. I often wear a frock coat in the winter, the long length cuts the wind and keeps me warmer. Plus a nice belt, boots and of course hat summer & winter. Practical & stylish.
Hollywood 'Western wear' is about as historically accurate as Hollywood style gun belts.
Not to say that there are not Western styles, just to note that they are much more modern than most imagine them to be.
And styles is indeed key word. You are quite right that Western wear means different things in different places. Florida ranch culture is not exactly the same as Arizona ranch culture, and both are quite different from what you will see in the logging or mining regions of the northern Rockies and PNW. Some share similarities (bolo ties common to both FL and AZ) others are quite different (Pendleton blanket based outerwear and lace up style packer boots being much more common the further north, or higher in elevation you go.)
And Eastwood wasn't so much 'challenging' the status quo as getting by with what was available in the places where those iconic movies were filmed - Spain. His later movies - Pale Rider, Unforgiven, etc. were much more historically grounded.)
The weak link of your outfit is not the boots, it's the belt. It should be 1 1/2" or 1 3/4" to better fill the belt loops. Tooling or stitching optional.
Oh, and while western style belt buckles may be an option AVOID any rodeo buckles UNLESS you have actually competed in that rodeo. This is only slightly less worse than wearing military ribbons that you have not earned.
Absolutely spectacular work on this one, chaps. Love it.
That's so funny! I've been following your channel for years, and I just bought myself some cowboy boots. I wondered what you guys would think about that...
Thank you for this video. I sport a snap button flannel shirt combined with a bolo tie sometimes. Not too flashy for Europe, but still a statement piece.
And while I'd probably never wear a Nudie suit, I would definitely like to see a video about them.
The "spurred you on" pun was unexpected and caused me to physically flinch. Well done!
Retailers for Civil War re-enactment would not be a bad place to start for some traditional-style western wear, including frock and sack coats, as well as earlier styles of shirts and trousers. They're often of very good construction and material, as they're meant not only to be historically accurate but also functional while camping, marching, and throwing yourself on the ground after being "shot."
Awesome video, always love the fusion!
As a long time follower of the Gentleman’s Gazette, I was really happy to see this topic on Western Wear covered. Thanks y’all.
A well pressed 501s goes with almost everything.
This is a great video. As a Texan, I own several pairs of bespoke cowboy boots (ML Leddy, Little's, Paul Bond, etc.). I wear them with jeans or dress trousers, oxford shirt, and blazer. A Silverbelly Stetson Open Road to top it all off 😉. Works for work and leisure here.
12:10 Timothy Olyphant in Justified. I tried that style once in a shop for western boots and hats here in Hanmburg, Germany. I had a grey three piece business suit on, cause I came from work. It felt good to wear boots with the suit. I thougt I was good looking - even with the almost white Stetson. And still... no ,I am not going to wear that. It is a heritage statement to my opinion. I wont wear a kilt unless I am of scotish heritage either. Again a great video. This time made in US for US.
Though I don't wear classic stetson hats, I often wear a Duster in winter that is from Outback Co. I sometimes will wear contemporary cowboy style work boots, jeans or sturdy chinos, and "outback style" wide brimmed fedora with that. Often a scarf and sturdy winter gloves. It gives off western vibes but it clearly contemporary work wear with western flare.
Awesome video! I'd love to see more videos about western wear in the future. Be sure to get yourself a pair of cowboy boots, a western belt buckle, and a cowboy hat next time.
I've been waiting for this one!
Omg I just got a proper rodeo king fitted for me about two weeks ago! It’s my new favorite item, it’s totally dorky but I feel so confident in it, and it’s definitely made me happy to try more properly fitted hats!
Excellent work Sir! Great presentation from start to finish. Enjoyable and informative, well prepared, and a pleasure to watch. Thank you!
A nice pair of cowboy boots and cowboy hat looks great with a suit. J.R. from Dallas comes to mind.
There's a guy I see sometimes wearing the full cowboy outfit - shirt with those upper chest/shoulder bits, big cowboy hat and all, shoes and jeans and such with a ponytail to top it off - looks like a middle aged guy living somewhere in Texas or Nevada and such.
Just one problem, though - west of the Mississippi, it's not too weird. But this guy is a couple of thousand kilometers to the east. Specifically, smack dab in the middle of southeast Europe, in Serbia. Guy looks like an actor in a costume for a play set in the Wild West. Surreal!
@DandyWellington has some seriously fire western looks in his catalog.
We wholeheartedly agree!
I work in a farm store in Michigan and Dixxon shirts, Charhart pants and a Stetson Open Road fits in just fine..
i have a few pairs of cowboy boots i wear casually. however i wear western style hats almost all the time, even fully suited. slightly smaller, as i usually wear a 3.5" brim, but its still clearly western style hat. i have light grey, light brown, dark brown, and black. i have some straw ones but dont wear them with suits, i wear a panama style hat instead in the heat.
Zip cowboy boots are compatible with suits and straight leg jeans. Cuadra has a wide selection and so does Tecovas (and they both sell other “western items”). Cuadra are particularly nice since Mexican boots have lower heels (so they wear more like shoes, but keep your socks drier in messy streets). In addition, “dressy” cowboy boots are in exotic leather.
Coming from Georgia every time I go to a thrift store and it has a men’s catalog from 20s to 50 I see a lot of cowboy hats
classic western wear derives its origins from traditional mexican stylings from 1800s and before. This is where it picked up its vibrant and ornate appearance, as traditional mexican cowboy “vaqueros” style is very ornate.
Growing up as a mexican american, i saw a ton of this growing up. it still is very common for most men to wear a pair of cowboy boots, a western suit, a cowboy hat, or even jeans to weddings, funerals, quinceneras, or any major events in life.
I also practice this myself! Its a great way to remain stylish and uphold my heritage
That hat is definitely Preston’s style!
I’m not even sure what to say. As I am from a family that ranges from Nebraska to Idaho, farm to cattle, I’ll tell you “western” is a fashion thing. You hit the nail on the head with more Yellowstone being real all the rest is really either tv/movies or fashion model most that most farmers/ranchers/actual cowboys would be caught dead in
Dear Gentleman’s Gazette, thank you for your amazing videos, I have a video idea that may be of interest: Dressing stylishly like Paul Newman. I would love to see that as you’ll have covered both McQueen and Dean. Thank you.
Thanks for your kind words! Not sure if you've seen this yet? www.gentlemansgazette.com/paul-newman-gentleman-style/?
@@gentlemansgazette oh I have not, that’s wonderful! I’ll be reading that tonight!
Close but missing some key elements…..
Jeans, typically worn in longer length's with boots. Also heavy starched with creases
As for boots, you have dress, casual and work boots. Makers like Lucchese are more desirable if budget allows.
Hats are felt or straw and Stetson is still the most desirable
Since we are getting into styles other than the traditional mens wear, I would love to see some input on highland wear and the uniqueness of it. I've already gotten into it, but would love to see some opinons from someone outside of it.
Agree'd. I'd rather be seen in my kilt than anything else.
I'm in the process of phasing out my suits for kilt jackets and waistcoats.
I wear a kilt at least two or three times per month, just because I love them, although it isn't always practical for certain jobs. A kilt with dress sporran, Argyle jacket, and waistcoat looks awesome and really stands out at work. Of course a kilt also looks awesome with a t-shirt and combat boots. I do occasionally get snide comments from guys about my "skirt", but strictly compliments from women.
Awesome, love from Texas
Aye.. love the screenshot of the longhorns for the National Western Stock Show Parade in Denver. One important missing information is the role of Denver, especially Rockmount in the creation of the western shirt design. And other brands such as H Bar C, Miller Western, etc.
Video idea: classic style as it applies to eye glasses. Vintage and current production frames would be great!
Good idea !
I have two bolo ties bought them from Jessie Western at Portobello Road and a bowl hat, which can be considered as a classic western.
Finally. I've been waiting five years. -A Son of Texas.
Rohan UK thick cotton shirt with press studs. Had it years. Great shirt. Saving up for a genuine Stetson.
I wear western boot with suits; been doing it since 1982 and ain't about to stop.
I’m always down for more info on the Vegas cowboy aesthetic!!!!
Glad to see the traditional format of the GG’s videos. It made me stay tuned on this subject of which I do not have any interest in.
Glad to hear you enjoyed the video! Out of interest, how much do you feel our videos have changed in the past five years? And which of our videos are your favorite(s)?
I dress in the historical point of view from all things.Original to the leather heel to the leather soul.Soak pipe boot to the self tie kentucky bow tie and suit From the early 1800s a place I go as wild West mercantile.
In Arizona, I live in New Hampshire by order from them. As they have a lot of war Maker printer classics by skull bicycle and regular frontier classics. Really new company I bought my first pair of the non Scully old western Trousers, but I buy the wriggler frontier classics that have no name. They're made over and somewhere across seas. I still have a pair from sixth grade holding strong. I warm 14 weeks in a row before washing every single day of the week. I wear and they never seem to ask us to wear out.
Western belts (not the big buckles,) and dark and medium wash denim western shirts and great
If were going outside of the traditional norm, than we should defiently get a video on Highland wear.
It's come a long way from where if was 200 years ago, and the King of England is a notrious fan of highland wear.
the two most important things to know about cowboy boots is
1. get the right fit
2. NEVER tuck your pants into your boots unless you're doing it to protect your pants
Jewelry grade hat bands including silver and turquoise elements.
When I was younger and ride horses I wore cowboy boots. Most cowboy boots are terrible to walk in. Fir formal occasions I were high quality wingtips. Western snap closure shirt, sometimes with embroidery. Stetson with hat band with silver roundals. Bolo tie with old pawn silver and turquoise slide. Most of the jewelry accessories are from New Mexico native American craftsmans, and are very pricy. Used to wear silver and turquoise belt buckles, but like cowboy boots, are not practical
A video by GG on Nudie would be fantastic.
Tecovas and ariats are good western wear brands
I love my Tacovas smooth ostrich skin ropers and matching belt! I tend to wear them the most out of all my boots. 16:18
In the bizz we like to call the shirt you are wearing as a “pearl snap” which denotes all the characteristics you mentioned so just because something has Pearl snaps doesn’t make it a pearl snap shirt but if someone says hey are you wearing a plaid or a pearl snap to the bar tonight and the person replies with pearl snap they are talk about a shirt like the one you are wearing!
I don't remember ever seeing anyone wearing things like rhinestones unless they were in the movie or music business.
I loved the 1960s. Toward the end of the 1960s and into the 1970s, our clothes were definitely more flamboyant (not the word I would have thought of) and colorful. I wore things then that would definitely get long hard stares today. The actual western wear that we wore tended to be more colorful than today but pretty much along the same lines.
Today, it seems to me that non-western shirts tend to be pretty drab and my western shirts tend to be far more colorful than them, but nothing even close to what we often wore fifty years ago.
Boots seem to be more showy today than they were then. In the 1960s and 1970s, my boots were not showy at all and most boots weren't all that showy.
In hats, the fashion has moved more toward curled up brims. In late spring, I was walking through a grocery store with my winter felt hat on and I overheard one young woman remark on my old-style hat with the brim being much flatter. Don't get me wrong, there were rolled up brims back in the 60s and 70s, but they seem to be much more commonly seen today.
Back in the 1960s and 1970s, those who wore hats generally just had the one hat for winter and summer. Many still have one hat for year round wear today, but the number of people with many hats seems more common. In my case, in the winter I wear a 7x Resistol fur hat that used to belong to my father ($50 when he bought it however many years ago that was) but he hardly wore and a cheap straw hat (the hat band cost more than the hat) for the summer.
Next week, I have to go to a followup appointment with the surgeon who operated on me a couple of weeks ago in the big city. While there, I am planning on going to one of the western wear stores to have my fur hat cleaned and to buy a relatively inexpensive black felt hat for ordinary winter wear so I can basically save my Resistol to wear to church, weddings, and funerals.
What I do need is a classic duster for the winter. I used to have an old over coat that fit that perfectly even though it wasn't western. I don't know what happened to that old overcoat, but it was solidly built and I would probably still be wearing it today if I could find it.
Thanks for the cameo on Lima, Peru :V
My local western store sells a lot of motorcycle apparel too. I like Ariat boots for work and riding. I would like some leather chaps so I can ride motorcycle and wear shorts at work.
Lol yes everything in my closet. All I have worn for the past 60 years.
This is THE video I needed.❤