BY ELIZABETH BECKY HOUGAARD

In my opinion, fall is the best time of year for western fashion. We not only get to wear our favorite fashions, we now get to add layers.

This year, there are many options for layering: amazing jackets, sweaters, ponchos, and scarves for added warmth. The duster-length sweaters in great fall colors with soft, gorgeous knits are one of my favorites. There are even some made with Minky-soft trim too. Southwest prints and animal prints are still popular, and you can’t help but love the colors. There are many ways to add these to your favorite skirts, leggings, jeans, and boots. Look for Rhoda Stark, Miss Me, Outback, and Pendleton for some great looks.

The “Shacket” is still popular for women and men. The shackets come in southwest prints, plaids, and solids, and many companies are making them now. Leather is as popular as ever with great fall colors, beading, and fringe to give them a great, rich Western look. Look for Scully, Cobbler, STS Ranchwear, and Cripple Creek.

The denim jackets, which have always been a staple, have skyrocketed in popularity with stones, beading, prints, and fringe. They are so much fun! There are many options with leather trim and tooled leather added to them. Many companies have these denims – some of the denims I love are from Scully, STS Ranchwear, Ariat, and Stetson.

Another fabric I’ve been seeing is velvet – I love the tops and dusters being shown in velvet. We also need to mention the practical jackets and vests that are worn day-to-day from such brands as Schaefer, Wrangler, Carhaart, and Wyoming Traders. They have outdone themselves with great Western looks and functional pockets and styles. Most companies are making concealed-carry jackets and vests now too.

We have to mention my must-have item for fall, and that is the scarf! There are many kinds, but my favorite is the silk wild rag. There are hundreds of prints and colors to go with all your outerwear, and they are comfortable and warm. Look to Wyoming Traders, Wild Images, and Fringe Scarves. There are also many locals that make them too.

How to reach me
As always, if there is something specific you’re looking for, I would be glad to help! Contact me at RockinHH@gmail.com or 307-248-0252. Have fun with your fashion looks! Get what makes you feel good.