I shared a post on my Instagram with an early look of this editorial and immediately got questions about the outfit. I realize western wear isn’t everyone’s jam and even though I don’t understand why (you wouldn’t really know it looking at Coachella and music festivals in general) it’s always a struggle to convince people to invest in the trend. The good news for all you dabblers out there is that 1. Stampede happens every single year… guaranteed! so you will be able to re-use your new found treasures, 2. it’s TEN DAYS LONG, so you will have plenty of time to put those clothes to good use and 3. Stores that you are probably already shopping at have great options that you can easily transition into your everyday wardrobe.
Every city has their thing, Calgary happens to be Cowboys, instead of shying away from it let's all embrace it and show the world how much fun you can have with your boots (or sandals) on!!
With the help of my friends at Ardene I put together two fun western looks that will be perfect for your time on the grounds this year, won’t break the bank AND will be super cute for the rest of summer. People don’t always realize but going western is as easy as throwing on a cowboy hat, and looking at these you can even skip the boots all together. In fact I had a whole IG exchange with a girl about why it is ESSENTIAL to have a pair of sandals with you at the Stampede. Like clockwork I will buy a new pair of boots every year that I wear on day 1, foster some painful blisters and then have to wear sandals the rest of the time because my feet are in pain otherwise. Save the boots for going out or chillier evenings, your feet expand during the day especially in the heat that we can get out here in the prairies. With super cute western options like these western buckle slides you can put a modern western twist on your outfit and still look the part. Another really great option are gladiator sandals, they live in that world between boho and western and can swing either way. If you accessorize accordingly you can easily pull them off!
The great thing about shopping at stores like Ardene for your Stampede essentials is that you will hardly make a dent in your bank account. Who doesn’t love that? Both of these looks together cost under $250! And I bet you may even have some of these pieces already. If you are quick enough you may even still be able to score the coveted ‘Stampede’ tee, exclusive to Calgary stores and perfect for a concert, or the midway! They made it easy for you this year with a whole section dedicated to Stampede inspired pieces, and don’t forget the shoe wall, the selection is overwhelming, you may be walking out with more than a few pairs. *Shop online at ardene.com with the Code ANIA15 for 15% off your entire purchase*
Both of these looks together cost under $250!
If you are visiting Calgary during the festival or if you want to be a tourist in your own town for a change I’m going to HIGHLY recommend a visit to Heritage Park. This was our location for this story and I promise you, you won’t be disappointed. Stampede is the perfect time to let yourself be transported to a different time and do you ever feel like you are on the set of a Western movie the moment you step through those gates. It’s a fun experience for adults and families AND the perfect photo op for the gram.
Every city has their thing, Calgary happens to be Cowboys, instead of shying away from it let’s all embrace it and show the world how much fun you can have with your boots (or sandals) on!!
xoxo
Look 1: Ardene overalls, top, sandals, sunglasses + chokers, Smithbilt hat
Look 2: Ardene dress, belt, jewelry + sandals, Smithbilt hat
*Shop online at ardene.com with the Code ANIA15 for 15% off your entire purchase*
Tags: ardene, calgary, heritage park, outfits, smithbilt, stampede, western style
Very good article! It’s very interesting to propose an outfit for under $100. Moreover, I think that your outfit is really nice, the overalls are beautiful.
I love how enthusiastically you embrace Stampede! So much of life is dictated by our perspective and disposition and I appreciate your positivity when others can be so down on the week.