As times change so do fashion and styles. Over the years we've seen hundreds of different styles representing different eras. Starting with the cloche hat in the 20s, the iconic A-line skirts in the 40s and the bling and pop of colours in the 70s and 80s, we've seen it all. But one of the people's all-time favourites is the country style. The country style clothing is one of the most recognisable ones with its characteristic flannelette shirts, jeans and wellington boots. These are not just clothes for walking in the woods. Designers have transformed them into something you can wear on a daily basis.
Country Tops
No matter what’s your cup of tea, when it comes to country-style clothing, there’s something for everyone. Whether you like a loose or a tight fit, bright colours or neutrals, plain shirts or strong patterns, you have a huge variety of women's country shirts to choose from. The right pick will make you feel comfortable and confident.
These shirts have a few distinctive elements that make them recognisable and unique. The first thing is the dual chest pockets. There are 2 main types of pockets. The first one is the smile pocket which you can find on the inside of the shirt. The second one is the snap-flapped pocket. This one comes in many styles and is very practical.
Another thing that makes western shirts unique is the pointed yokes. This is an extra layer of fabric sewn on the main material and can be in many points. They're designed to make the shoulders appear broader, but manufacturers probably started sewing them to replace the scarves that people wore around their necks.
The sleeve placket and the snap button closures are distinctive characteristics as well. They're longer and tightly fitted so they won’t get caught on something during work. Western shirts typically have two different types of cuffs: the most traditional barrel cuff with a three-snap closure and the five-snap closure found on shotgun cuffs.
Before the snaps, shirts were buttoned with sew-through buttons up until the 1930s. But the snaps were a big breakthrough. They're practical because if the shirt gets caught on a fence or a saddle horn, it’ll release itself fast. Plus, cowboys didn’t need the knowledge of needle and thread or had to look for lost buttons. Nowadays, you can find shirts with buttons and snaps.
One of the most identifiable components of country tops is plaid shirts. This is the ideal piece to base your wardrobe on when you want to create a typical country look with an urban feel. A chequered shirt instantly gives you a contemporary country look if you wear it with denim pants or a skirt. Unbuttoning a plaid shirt and wearing it over a plain white or black T-shirt with jeans or black leather leggings is one of the coolest ways to wear one.
Country Bottoms
You can’t find anything more country than wearing jeans. It's difficult to find a country person who doesn't wear jeans. They're practically a blank canvas on which you can create your own distinctive style. You can top them off with a plain t-shirt and a cowboy belt to develop a more laid-back look. Or, if you're going on a date, you could dress up with a formal western shirt. Jeans are very versatile.
If you get the right, high-quality product you’ll have a pair of pants to wear for a lifetime. Cowboy jeans are durable, and often have detailed embroidery and fine details. They usually have a nice fit and don’t get saggy after a couple of wears. You can find them in many sizes and different body shapes because not everyone is built the same way.
Country jeans almost always have loop locks so they won’t tear. These jeans are also known as boot-cut jeans because as they go down from your knee to the ankle, they get wider. This way you can fit your cowboy boots underneath them easily without feeling tight. Be careful about their length, they shouldn't go further than the boot's heel, otherwise, you might trip and fall.
But jeans also merge the classic country style with contemporary fashion trends. Never limit yourself to just one colour. Buy light and dark blue jeans that will work with any type of boot or vest you have at home. But in general, a dark blue or charcoal wash is the greatest shade for a modern appearance. Darker washes of jeans are wonderful for nights out, while medium blue jeans are ideal for daytime use.
Country Footwear
Cowboy boots are the one accessory that can instantly define any attire as country style. Although cowboy boots can be worn with practically any piece of clothing, they appear to best capture the country look when you wear them with jeans and maybe a floral dress. Your boots will look great with any type of top, t-shirt, pullover, shirt or even a poncho.
There are several types of boots you can wear to different events and occasions. Western cowboy boots are very practical and durable. They have a pointed toe, a heel of 2.5-5cm and a tall shaft for protection. Work boots are usually made from cowhide. They have a shorter heel, so the height won’t interfere with your work. A lot of them have a cushioned midsole and steel toe and are very sturdy.
Riding boots are there to keep you safe while you’re on the horse. The heel is high-angled and prevents the foot from slipping out of the stirrups. Walking boots have a lower heel and a wider toe. This way you’ll be more comfortable walking in them. The roper boots are easier to get them on and off because of their shorter shaft. They have a low heel and are tighter around the ankles.
Of course, there are exotic boots as well. They're unique in terms of the material they’re made of. Instead of using cowhide, manufacturers use snake, alligator, lizard, eel, deer and even ostrich. They're on the more expensive side because are considered a work of art. And finally, the fashion cowgirl boots. They are very stylish and have one-of-a-kind handmade designs. When you pair them with the right women's country shirts, you’ll get a unique look.
