Some people dress in a way that simply irks me.  Sometimes it’s ill-fitting, unflattering clothes, sometimes it’s the “non-conformist” fashion that is just plain weird, and then there are the three things that probably bug me the most:

  1. Uggs
  2. Leggings as Pants
  3. Extreme amounts of skin

It’s only Day 3 of the Calgary Stampede and I’ve already been exposed to all three.  The one out in full force during these 10-days of summer is number three, showing extreme amounts of skin.  Whether it’s shorts so short that I can see cheek, or shirts so low-cut, I’m afraid one of the girls will make an appearance, too many women are wearing too little clothing.  Take these usual fashion don’ts, pair them together, add a splash of cowboy flair and you’ve got the worst of the worst at the Calgary Stampede.

Backstage at D&G

The most painful part of Stampede fashion this year is the fact there are so many western-inspired options available in stores this year.  I picked out 16 cute, western-inspired pieces for my College Candy post, Doin’ it Out West.  With the popularity of chambray, floral, ruffles and other western-looking items, there is no excuse for poor fashion at the Stampede.

Last week I watched the CORE Fashion show showcase Stampede Fashion from retailers in Calgary’s downtown shopping centre.  I have to say I was pretty disappointed with the styling.  The vast selection of items available in stores that could be combined to emulate a western vibe were noticeably missing from this years show.  While most of the boot choices were perfect, I was uninspired by the cocktail dresses and leopard print that hit the runway.

My picks for a western-inspired outfit with a huge dose of class, include denim jackets or vests, overtop classic pieces that, when paired with the right accessories have a western feel.  Below, this otherwise simple sundress can be cowgirl’d up with a brown leather belt, cowboy boots, and other accessories.  This is just one way to dress up in western attire to maintain sex appeal without showing an extreme amount of skin.

Browse my Polyvore for a few more Cowgirl chic looks.