Country fashion has gone through quite a journey over the years, shifting from practical everyday looks to flashy stage attire and then circling back again. So how did country fashion become all the rage? Let’s take a trip through the history of this unique style.
The Early Days of Country Style
Country fashion originally had its roots in the Old West with the cowboys who needed rugged, functional clothing for their demanding jobs. So, early country style was more about utility than style. Back then, cowboy boots were for work, and wide-brimmed hats were simply for protection from the sun.
Hollywood’s Influence
The world of country fashion started to change with the rise of Hollywood and the popularity of Western films. Singing cowboys like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers brought glamour to the cowboy image. They wore flashy, bedazzled costumes designed by people like Nudie Cohn, a tailor who played a big role in shaping the look of country music stars.
Enter the Rhinestones
In the 1950s, the rhinestone cowboy fashion trend emerged. Designers like Rodeo Ben, Nathan Turk, and Nudie Cohn led the way, creating lavish, jewel-covered suits for country stars. This added a whole new level of showmanship to country performances. Elvis Presley even got in on the action, sporting a gold lamé suit designed by Nudie on the cover of his album “50,000,000 Elvis Fans Can’t Be Wrong.”
Country Meets Rock ‘n’ Roll
In the 1970s, country fashion started to blend in elements of rock ‘n’ roll style. Country-rock musicians like Gram Parsons, who rocked a Nudie suit, exemplified this fusion. This period also saw a shift toward more relaxed, denim-based outfits, influenced by the laid-back vibe of rock culture.
The 80s and 90s: Changing Times
The 80s and 90s brought change to country fashion. While some artists still embraced the rhinestone extravagance of the past, others went for a simpler look. Country stars like Garth Brooks and Dwight Yoakam became known for their straightforward jeans-and-shirt ensembles, signaling a return to the practical origins of country style.
Modern-Day Country Fashion
Today, country fashion is a mix of styles. Some artists love the glitz and glam of the Nudie suit era, while others prefer a more laid-back, contemporary look. Figures like Kacey Musgraves and Chris Stapleton embody this modern country style, blending traditional elements with current fashion trends.
Country Fashion in Pop Culture
Country fashion has made its mark in pop culture as well. Celebrities like Kelsea Ballerini have been seen rocking cowboy boots on the red carpet, and country-inspired fashion is a common sight at music festivals. Even high-end fashion designers draw inspiration from country style, incorporating elements like fringe and denim into their collections.
Country Fashion in the Digital Age
In today’s digital age, country fashion continues to evolve. Social media platforms like Instagram give country artists a new way to showcase their style and connect with fans. From jackets covered in rhinestones to distressed denim, contemporary country fashion is a diverse mix of styles.
From its humble beginnings in the Old West to its current status as a major influence on pop culture and high fashion, country style has come a long way. Whether you’re a fan of the classic rhinestone cowboy look or prefer a more modern, laid-back style, country fashion has a lasting impact and appeal.
In the ever-changing world of fashion, one thing stays constant: the enduring influence of country style. From cowboy boots to rhinestones, this uniquely American fashion genre continues to leave its mark on the fashion world.
