It's rodeo season and Americans across the country are showing up to compete in and watch hundreds of events this summer. Many Americans grew up hearing about rodeos, and others, participating and watching them. But for those unfamiliar with the sport there's a lot to know.
The sport of rodeo was born from the cattle herding traditions of Spain, Mexico and Australia. Texan vaqueros, and later, American cowboys were born from and inspired by Mexican charros.
Is there a dress code for a rodeo?
Rodeo competitors already know there's a formal dress code they are required to follow. But spectators might not be as clear about what they should wear to different events. Whether you are dressing country crazy or as city slick, all outfits are welcome at a rodeo.
Here's some more info about what to wear at a rodeo.
What to wear to a rodeo
As the summer approaches, cowboys and cowgirls across the country are putting their boots on and saddling their horses to come to a rodeo near you.
Rodeos are a great way to get out of the house, meet up with friends or family and enjoy an ice-cold drink with jam-packed entertainment. That being said, dressing up for the rodeo is one of the best parts!
While you don't have to dress exactly like a cowboy or cowgirl would, it is easy to mimic their look and dress the part of a true rodeo fan.
Tops
A timeless piece of clothing that will never go wrong at a rodeo is denim. Denim anything will always be acceptable, whether it be a denim button-up, a denim dress or a jumpsuit.
Because it will be warm the majority of the time, a flowy sun dress is one of the best options, especially if you can pair it with cowboy boots. Who doesn’t love a white sun dress moment?
The other rodeo staple: Fringe. The more fringe the better. If you can throw on a fringe vest or jacket, your outfit will be a 90-point ride! (Watch the bull riding at the rodeo and you will find out how good a 90-point ride is.)
If you’re looking to go simple, throw on a graphic or plain tee and you will be just fine.
Bottoms
The bottoms for a rodeo are super easy. Any pair of denim Wrangler or Cinch jeans is a win. If it’s too warm for jeans and you want to show off your legs, some Daisy Duke shorts for the ladies, or jorts (jean shorts) for the men, will be a fan favorite.
Shoes
What is the first thing you think of when you think of cowboys? If you said cowboy boots, you are boot-scootin' your way to the perfect outfit.
Whether you are getting brown or pink boots or pointed or squared toes, cowboy boots will have your feet feeling comfortable and looking rodeo ready. Boots of any price range can be found from Ariat, Justin Boots, Tecovas, Tony Lama, or Lucchese.
Hats
If you are planning to dress the part from head to toe, you can’t forget a cowboy hat. Cowboy hats are the perfect way to not only blend with the crowd but keep your face shaded and cool from the summer sun.
Cowboy hats come in felt or straw material and in a handful of different shapes and sizes. Unless you plan to wear your cowboy hat multiple times, don't buy one for one-time use, as a classic Cattleman Straw Cowboy Hat sells for $145 USD from Tecovas.
That being said, if you run to your local western store, there are plenty of “off-brand” cowboy hats you can purchase for cheap that will do the job just fine.
Similarly, if you are not looking to pay an arm and a leg for a cowboy hat, a classic ball cap, or even no hat, will be just fine.
Accessories
Accessories are not a requirement, but it never hurts to throw on a belt and some turquoise jewelry to really lasso yourself a country look. Adding a purse, jacket, ball cap, or anything else that can add to the look, is never a bad idea.
Rodeos are a hoop and a holler, and regardless of what you are wearing, you will have a fabulous time at the rodeo. Make sure you let out your loudest ‘yee-haw’ and you will have the best night you can have!
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