The Calgary Stampede is just around the corner partners, and we’re thinking this is the year to go all out in the style section. After all, Western wear seems to be having a *moment* even outside of Calgary, and the Stampede is the perfect place to really show it off.
We’ve got trends to know about, local stores, major names, and a whole lot more. If you’re hoping to up your style level for the Calgary Stampede this year, then you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started!
Trends this Year
White/Vintage Boots
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If there’s one ‘it item’ we’re seeing this summer, it’s the cowboy boot. Transcending the western wear genre, it’s become a must for those in the know. Luckily, you won’t have to look very far to find them before Stampede, whether you’re buying them new or rummaging around in thrift shops.
Vintage Corporate T-Shirts and Accessories
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The vintage band t-shirt is on a good run, and it’s not going anywhere any time soon. However, we think the new thrill of the hunt comes from seeking out vintage corporate/sponsorship gear, whether it’s a long-defunct ranch t-shirt or an ESSO branded belt buckle.
Bootcut and Wide Leg Pants
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They never really went out of style in Western wear to be fair, but bootcuts and wide leg pants (heck, even pleated) have also made a resurgence in high fashion and street style these past few years. Whether you’re buying vintage or just looking through your parents’ closets, these are a must at least once.
90s/2000s Resurgence
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One major trend making a comeback? Nostalgia for the 90s and early 2000s. And how does one work that into their Stampede style? With some smaller shirts, hilariously over-the-top designs (like butterflies and rhinestones) and yes, even the whole denim on denim on denim thing.
Space Cowboy
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No, you don’t actually have to rock a spacesuit. In line with the 90s revival, the Space Cowboy theme is a celebration of mixing classic Western styles with futuristic materials and modern cuts, from glamourous shirts to leather pants. You might get confused with some of the Stampede’s headliners, and that’s exactly what we’re hoping for.
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Specific Brands
One of These Days Co.
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Ok, so the trends have been identified, but what brands do we actually have on the moodboard? We’ll kick things off with One of These Days Co., an offshoot from the LA-based artist Matt McCormick. Think the rugged styling of Marlboro ads, with decidedly blasé messaging that just feels right for us.
HBarC
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We’ll say it- HBarC is one of the true heavyweights in the world of western wear. Focusing on upscale, intricate designs for both women and men, this brand will have you turning heads any time you’re out, be it at the Stampede or a nightclub. For some reason, really leaning into the aesthetic also transcends it?
Lucchese
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Speaking of the best of the best, Lucchese might be the best shoe brand you’ve never heard of. We like to think of it as Prada for Western vibes- some of the shoes you wouldn’t recognize unless you asked to take a look at the insole, while others, well, are in a league of their own.
Local Stores/Dealers
Roadrunner Vintage
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Moving into where you actually might find some of this stuff, we’ve got a range of local dealers for you to check out. Roadrunner is among the very best of them, with a focus on Americana and true vintage looks for both men and women available.
CREW CTRL
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Focusing on menswear, this IG-only shop is no doubt going to be one of the best to check out in the weeks leading up to Stampede. Know how we talked about vintage corporate gear? Yeah, this is where we’re going to be looking, alongside some great button-up options.
Cody & Sioux
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While both menswear and womenswear are available, there’s no doubt that Cody & Sioux is going to be a must for girls looking for some Stampede style. Western has always been the name of the game here, and it’s a bonafide goldmine for entire outfits.
Velour Clothing Exchange
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A true heavyweight in the scene, Velour has long been a great stop any time of the year. However, since it doubles as a legit exchange store, we think of it as an extremely curated garage sale every time we go in there… you never know what you’re going to find, which makes the diamonds in the rough that much sweeter.
Major Names & Stores
Smithbilt Hats Inc.
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Yessiree, who woulda thought that Calgary is home to some of the best names in the game? First up is Smithbilt, the creator of the iconic White Hat that has been associated with the Stampede for decades. Whether you’re picking up their cheapest option, or going full custom, the brand is built to last, and last it will.
Alberta Boot Company
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Of course, it’s only fair to pair the official hat of the Stampede with the official boots. We’ll admit that we’re sometimes hesitant about buying used shoes, and especially boots- they are built to be worn into the earth, after all. So, if you’re feeling something new this year, this is our suggestion.
Lammle’s
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Which brings us to one store that is synonymous with country vibes. Calgary born and now the largest retailer of Western wear in the country, there’s no denying that if you need that little something extra, or a full outfit, Lammle’s is the best place to go. As for us? Well, we’ll be looking at their more, uh, unique Wrangler shirts- we’re talking the Aztec prints and those wild landscape options.
There you have it, cowpokes! The definite Stampede style guide for this year. Now get out there, get hunting, and get ready to look your best when things kick off!
