Western Wear Research Paper

There is nothing more American than the cowboys and cowgirls of the old west. They symbolize American individualism, survival, and ruggedness. The cowboys and cowgirls were-and still are-rebels who spent their lives in the outdoors with their horses and cattle.

They lived their lives on their own terms and were experts in gun, horse, and cattle skills. Because of their special place in American history and culture, Americans love to wear cowboy and cowgirl western wear as a part of their own American identity.

Past Western Wear

In the past 60 years, western wear meant dressing up in full cowboy or cowgirl outfits with a costume-like theme. This fashion statement was especially big back in the 1950s when the western theme became a major part of the popular culture.

It was also during this time that western movies became big hits with stars like John Wayne, Audie Murphy, and James Arness recreating the old west on the big screen. Even cartoons and kid shows picked up the western theme with characters like Howdy Doodie. It was also during this time that denim jeans became a part of everyone's wardrobe.

After the 50s, the western theme diminished, but the jeans and blue denim lived on as an American classic.

Today's Western Wear

Today, the western theme is back partly for its American ruggedness and partly out of American patriotism in supporting our troops around the world; but this time, the trend in both women's and men's fashion is to add a DASH of western flair instead of a whole wild west "costume".

In this way, men and women can show their "American pride and ruggedness" while still being fashion forward. Here are some examples of western flair...

For Women:

A long flowing dressy skirt and blouse with a western-style denim