A Cowgirl in September
By Olivia Jaber and Chase
Western style happens to be one of our favorite ways to dress. It is American through and through, always classic, and unwavering in its elegance, while staying true to its gritty reputation. More than that, the Western vibe bridges two of our favorite seasons, summer and fall. Together, the styles of these two seasons are unstoppable. The calmness of summer and the energy of fall combine to form some of the most intriguing and satisfying outfits we’ve seen strutting down the streets during fashion weeks. From pairing a white summer lace dress with a fall tan suede jacket to pairing cowboy boots and thick plaid skirts, September is one of fashion’s most versatile months. Pairing a statement jacket with those denim jeans you’ve run around in all summer, and bringing out the sweater that keeps you just warm enough to wear your favorite slip dress are just a few of the countless ways you can transition from summer fun, to autumn bliss. The cowboy hat that once protected your freckles at summer barbecues, now keeps your hair in-tact as it braves fall breezes. Whatever your personal preference is, western essentials are a great way to segue from the fun of summer into the coziness of fall.
No one has done a better job at describing the transition from summer to fall than fashion icon Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City. When Carrie wakes up early in the morning to a brisk chill, she reaches for her stowed away comforter in her NYC apartment. At that moment, she knows that summer has become fall. Rather than purge her closet, she reconfigures it, introducing her summer favorites to her fall must-haves. And there we have it— a combination to kill. So rather than chanting the mantra “out with the old, in with the new” in your head as you stare into your closet, welcome in the new, alongside the old, by means of plaids, blazers, boots, and a really good hat.
Western style brings materials, and prints that help blend the difference between summer and fall. Think suede, avant-garde metal and leather belts, neutrals and tans, combined with denim, white blouses, and light silk dresses. Something eternally epic happens when you decide to pair the airy nature of summer with the warmer tones of fall. Below are a few examples that exemplify just how you do not need a completely new wardrobe to follow you into the new season— you just need a few pieces to bolster what you’ve already got. Just like that, you’ve become a cowgirl in September.
The Hat
Nothing says fall like a great hat to warm up your look. Adding a few details, like a hat, to your summer dress will definitely get you ready to take on fall in stride. A wool felt western style hat compliments any fall transition outfit. Channel your inner cowgirl with this fun accent that is sure to complete any look, from an evening out on the town, to the orchard with loved ones.
The Boots
It’s no secret that we’re obsessed with cowboy boots— it’s not our fault they’re one of the most versatile accessories out there! Whether you choose a classic tan pair, an exotic leather, or boots featuring an ornate stitched design, you can’t go wrong with America’s favorite shoe. These days cowboy boots are not exclusively meant to be worn on ranches. You can catch chic city girls on any given day, rocking their boots with their favorite pair of jean shorts and a blazer. We love the richness, warmth, and confidence they bring to a well-worn pair of jeans, and a cozy flannel.
The Statement Jacket
Whether it’s the blazer you purchased for summer or the fringe jacket you need to have for fall, there are countless options to choose from when picking a statement piece or working with an already purchased statement piece. Jackets are the perfect item to help transition a look— Amal Clooney and Kendall Jenner are perfect examples of mixing a summer classic with some statement pieces. This is definitely the place to opt for a unique piece if a distinct pattern or fabric has caught your attention.
The Summer Piece Goes Fall
You have a dress or a skirt you're dying to take with you into September— no worries! Summer is definitely too hot for flannel or corduroy and limits our ability to be festive and creative in certain regards— that’s why when fall swoops around, I’m chomping at the bit to throw in all of my favorite pieces like leather pants, plaid skirts, and sweaters to the mix. Simply adding a leather pant to your favorite summer shirt, or a heavier jacket can completely change your items to adapt for different seasons.
The Bag
Opting for a bag that’s made out of cowhide is an instantaneous transition from summer to fall. Anything suede is also a good option— and you’ll be able to wear it all year round.
Photo via Vogue
