The Calgary Stampede is one of the biggest and most popular events in the city, and it's no surprise that people want to dress their best for the occasion.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your outfit for the Stampede, including the weather, the activities you'll be participating in, and of course, your own personal style.

Stampede Style Tips

Be comfortable!

First and foremost, it's important to be comfortable. The Stampede takes place in the middle of summer, so it's likely to be hot and sunny.

Wear light, breathable fabrics and avoid anything too tight or constricting. You'll also want to consider your footwear carefully - the last thing you want is to be stuck in the mud in your nice shoes!

Dress for the right activity

Secondly, think about the activities you'll be taking part in. If you're planning on doing a lot of walking, you'll want to wear comfortable shoes.

If you're going to be spending time in the rodeo arena, dress in clothes that won't get in the way or get caught on anything.

Be yourself :)

And finally, don't forget to express your own personal style!

The Stampede is a great opportunity to dress up in your favourite cowboy or cowgirl gear, or to go all out with a flashy and festive outfit.

No matter what you choose to wear, make sure you have fun and enjoy the Calgary Stampede!

Here are five unique ways to look like the part of a fashionable Western girl, without having to spend the money.

1. Turn Your Choker Necklace into a Cute Cowboy Bolo Tie

Take your choker necklace, and instead of wrapping it tightly around your neck, wrap it once and with the remaining wrap, tie it loosely in a knot, about 2-4 inches from the ends.

To add even more Stampede flair, you can add a pendant or bead where the knot is, to give it a true bolo tie look!

Vintage pendants like stars, big gold or silver beads, turquoise or bull pendants, are perfect for a Stampede Bolo Tie.

This one in the picture is actually a brass flower ring that I found in my jewelry box! 

  

2. Turn an Old Bandana Into a Tie Up Headband

Instead of wearing your bandana around your neck, turn it into a pin-up style, country inspired headband.

Fold your bandana into a triangle, and start rolling from the corner end first. Once it is rolled into a band, wrap the band around the back of your head, underneath your hair.

Wrap it so that the ends are at the top of your head. I like to tie the ends on the side of my head, not on the very centre, and I like to tie it twice so that it is nice and tight, and the ends aren't too floppy!

Even if you don't have a bandana, almost every single dollar store I have been to sells them.

You can get bandanas in any colour, but I prefer red or dark blue because they are Stampede colours.

2. Invest in a One Layering Piece and Mix and Match

No need to get an entire wardrobe for Stampede; buying the chambray shirt, the cowboy boots, the plaid button up, the cowboy hat, it all adds up and you might only wear it once!

Instead, you can invest in one, easy piece of clothing that you can layer and wear over all your regular clothing for a Stampede twist.

Vests are my personal favourite for stampede, they go with tank tops and jeans, dresses, t shirts and short, almost everything! I also love it because it's lightweight- the last thing you want to be doing is sweating at the Cowboys tent in a long sleeve chambray shirt, full denim jeans and boots.

A jean vest on top of a white t shirt and jean shorts, or a fringe suede vest on top of a floral dress instantly turns your everyday clothing into a Western theme. 

 

 

4. Tried and True- Stampede Colours

When I think of Stampede, I always think of a few basic colours, textures and styles that come up over and over again.

Keep these in mind, and add in your own personal style or accessories to make it yours.

Obviously, denim is the first thing that comes in mind, denim in all shades and styles, from denim jackets for a casual look, to denim pencil skirts for work.

Camel and navy green is also a great starting point, camel coloured belts, or navy green fringe purses.

Top it off with brass coloured jewelry for that Western feel- brass fringe earrings or thick, brass cuffs. Our Statement Recycled Brass Fringe Necklace is perfect for that raw, country feel.  

5. Shop Thrifty- Trendy Consignment Stores

If you do want to invest in some classic Stampede outfits, why don't you check out fashion consignment boutiques?

They all stock up on Western clothing when Stampede is coming up, they might even have some real cowboy boots for half the price!

The bonus part is that supporting consignment stores helps create a more sustainable and eco-friendly environment as well.

Personally, I always find things I love at Clothing Bar, and if you want to stock up on some Alora jewelry as well, why not visit Danielle's Consignment or SalvEdge Boutique! 

Stampede shouldn't be hard, and it shouldn't be about looking the exact same as everyone else. Get creative, and wear Western inspired trends that are uniquely yours! Stand out from the crowd with these simple, unique tricks.

Happy Stampeding everyone! 

 

 

Need more Calgary Stampede style tips?

1. What to wear to the Calgary Stampede if you want to fit in

Western wear is the norm at the Calgary Stampede, so if you want to fit in, make sure to pack your cowboy boots and hat.

Jeans are also a must – the more distressed, the better. For a truly authentic look, pair your denim with a plaid shirt.

2. What to wear to the Calgary Stampede if you want to stand out

If you want to stand out from the crowd at the Calgary Stampede, go for a more glam look.

Think sequins, fringe, and cowboy boots with a heel.

You can also try pairing a denim skirt with a flowy top or a cowboy boot with a sundress.

3. What to wear to the Calgary Stampede if you want to be comfortable

The key to being comfortable at the Calgary Stampede is to dress in layers.

The days are hot, but the nights can get chilly, so make sure to pack a cardigan or light jacket and comfortable shoes are also a must – you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so leave the heels at home.

 Whatever you decide to wear, have fun, stay safe, and enjoy yourself!