Western attire is intrinsically related to the history of the United States of America. From cowboy boots to the classic hat, Western wear’s signature look has remained true to its historical origins for centuries. Each pair of denim jeans or designer boots, regardless of how promoted or embellished, gives testament to a way of life established through the toil and artistry of nineteenth- and twentieth-century cobblers, shoemakers, tailors, and cowboys.
The Original Cowboy Boots
Following the Civil War, a large number of American immigrants relocated west in pursuit of land and a new way of life. While wearing military-issued Calvary boots, Wellington boots, and other low-heeled shoes, it became evident that these options would not withstand extended days in the field. In the early 1870s, Coffeyville, Kansas, stitched the first boots capable of withstanding the demands of the working cowboy. Cuban heels bolstered arches, while round toes aided in slipping these boots through the massive stirrups. By 1879, H.J. “Joe” Justin had established himself as a dominant name on the cowboy boot scene. Justin’s winter work boots quickly became a popular option throughout western America as he became the first to provide mail-ordering. As the popularity of these boots grew throughout the twentieth century as a result of films, literature, theater, and country music, larger companies formed to accommodate the expanding demand. Ariat, a well-known and trusted name in Western clothing in the 1990s, was one of these.
Denim Jeans or Waist-High Overalls
Simultaneously with the introduction of cobbled cowboy boots, a tailor in Nevada named Jacob W. Davis filed a patent application with Levi Strauss for small copper rivets to reinforce the seams and pockets of his waist-high overalls. Levi Strauss noticed the commercial potential of the rivets and decided to collaborate with Davis. Davis had been producing these rivets effectively for miners. Though they initially used hemp sailcloth for work pants, they eventually shifted to cotton serge de Nimes, more often referred to as denim.
By the 1890s, denim pants were worn by blue-collar laborers, ranchers, and cowboys. These were also adopted into mainstream media venues, resulting in a proliferation of “dude cowboys.” These men were everyday city people seeking a “genuine” cowboy experience. These men, dressed in the finest boots, denim pants, and hats, would significantly boost the appeal of Western clothes. In the 1950s, country music musicians based their careers on the classic cowboy singing style adorned the pants with rhinestones and sequins. Denim trousers have turned into a wardrobe essential for billions of people worldwide. Look up “western clothes men” for the best western outfits.
The Original Cowboy Hat
Following in the footsteps of Mexican vaqueros (cowboys), American and European settlers began dressing similarly to the vaqueros. Everything the vaqueros wore was useful, from their enormous sombreros to their towering cowboy work boots, leather chaps, and massive hats. The hat was one of the items that American cowboys adopted from their European counterparts.
Conclusion
While we typically identify Western clothes with satin shirts adorned with fringe and rhinestones, actual cowboys wore more utilitarian garments designed for function and durability than for show. While the old Western films that we continue to enjoy today popularized them for the rest of us, these rugged clothing were genuinely designed for a life in the elements.
