Popular Western Clothing Brands: From Traditional to Modern

Western clothing has been an integral part of American fashion for over a century, with roots tracing back to the rugged attire worn by cowboys, ranchers, and frontier settlers. These iconic styles have evolved over time, blending traditional elements with modern designs to create a diverse range of western wear options. Here are some of the most popular western clothing brands that have shaped this enduring fashion genre.

Popular Western Clothing Brands

Popular Traditional Western Brands

Wrangler

Founded in 1947, Wrangler is one of the most iconic denim brands in the western world. Known for their durable jeans, shirts, and workwear, Wrangler has been a go-to choice for cowboys and blue-collar workers alike. Their signature rigid denim and classic five-pocket jean design have become emblematic of western style.

Levi's

While not exclusively a western brand, Levi's is renowned for its denim jeans, which have become synonymous with American style. Originally designed for miners and cowboys in the late 19th century, Levi's jeans have transcended their utilitarian origins to become a fashion staple worldwide.

Stetson

No discussion of western clothing is complete without mentioning Stetson, the legendary hatmaker founded in 1865. Their iconic "Boss of the Plains" cowboy hat design has become a symbol of the American West, and their felt hats are prized for their craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Popular Modern Western Brands

Ariat

Established in 1993, Ariat is a relative newcomer in the western wear scene but has quickly gained popularity for its high-quality cowboy boots and performance riding apparel. Their innovative footwear combines traditional western styling with modern technology for superior comfort and durability.

Rock & Roll Cowboy

This brand offers a modern take on western fashion, blending traditional elements with contemporary designs. Their clothing includes jeans, shirts, jackets, and accessories with a stylish western flair, appealing to fashion-forward individuals who appreciate the western aesthetic.

Panhandle

Panhandle offers a wide range of western-style clothing for men, women, and children. From shirts and jeans to dresses and outerwear, Panhandle's designs reflect the spirit of the American West with a modern twist, making their clothing accessible to a broader audience.

Workwear-Inspired Western Brands

Carhartt

While primarily known for its workwear, Carhartt's rugged clothing and outerwear are favored by those in western and outdoor lifestyles for their durability and functionality. From jackets to pants to overalls, Carhartt's products are designed to withstand tough conditions, making them a natural fit for western enthusiasts.

Cinch

Cinch is known for its western-inspired clothing, including jeans, shirts, and outerwear designed for both work and leisure. Their products combine classic western aesthetics with modern fits and fabrics, offering a balance between style and practicality.

Bootmakers Turned Western Wear Brands

Justin Boots

Started in 1879, Justin Boots is renowned for its high-quality cowboy boots. Over the years, they have expanded their product line to include western-inspired clothing, such as shirts, jeans, and outerwear, all reflecting the brand's commitment to western heritage.

Tony Lama

Another prominent boot maker, Tony Lama is known for its handcrafted cowboy boots. While boots are their specialty, they also offer western-style clothing and accessories that complement their footwear line, allowing customers to create a complete western look.

Women's Western Wear

While many western brands cater to both men and women, some notable players in the women's western wear market include:

Ariat

In addition to their men's line, Ariat offers a wide range of western-inspired clothing and footwear specifically designed for women, including jeans, shirts, dresses, and boots.

Idyllwind

A newer brand in the western wear scene, Idyllwind focuses on creating fashionable and functional clothing for women who embrace the western lifestyle. Their collection includes tops, bottoms, dresses, and accessories with a modern, feminine flair.

Cowgirl Tuff

Cowgirl Tuff is a women's western wear brand known for its trendy, yet functional clothing. Their offerings include jeans, tops, outerwear, and accessories designed to combine style with the durability needed for an active western lifestyle.

Accessorizing the Western Look

No western outfit is complete without the right accessories. Popular western accessory brands include:

Montana Silversmiths

Known for their intricately designed belt buckles, jewelry, and other accessories, Montana Silversmiths offers a wide range of silver and gold-plated items that add an authentic western touch to any outfit.

Vogt Silversmiths

Another prominent name in western accessories, Vogt Silversmiths creates handcrafted belt buckles, jewelry, and other items that showcase the artistry and tradition of the American West.

From traditional cowboy attire to modern interpretations of western fashion, these popular brands offer a diverse range of options for those looking to embrace the western aesthetic. Whether you're a rodeo enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply appreciate the rugged charm of western wear, these brands provide quality clothing and accessories that combine style, functionality, and a deep respect for the enduring legacy of the American West.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.