The Active Historian

Hey friend, welcome back to another post! Today, I’m going to show you some of my favorite ways to style a vintage Western shirt. Let’s get started!

A few months ago my dad was cleaning out his closet and ran across a duffel bag FULL of Western shirts from the 90s. He called and asked if I wanted them before he donated them. I said, “yes, of course!” That’s how I wound up with so many vintage shirts.

I try to stick with basic pieces when I style my vintage Western shirts. I want the shirt to steal the show! I typically opt for jeans (boot cut or bell bottoms), a hat (felt or straw depending on season) and a belt that matches the boots I put on.

As for accessories, I try to keep them pretty basic. I wear stud earrings, rings and a watch.

If the shirt is more basic, then I might pair some turquoise or spiny oyster statement earrings with a cuff.

Check out some of my favorite looks below!

Vintage Wrangler Shirts

I am a relatively short person so this extra long cut western shirt can literally be worn as a dress! I love the bright pink color – it’s very on trend with “Barbie” in 2023.

I also love being able to tuck it in and throw a denim vest on top! This particular outfit was super special because of the people who gave me the pieces. I am a sum of all the family members who came before me. My dad gave me the Vintage Wrangler shirt, my Papa gave me the Vintage bolo, my Nana gave me the denim vest and the turquoise ring came from my mother’s side of the family.

I love the colors on this shirt – the blues, purples and pinks definitely make it stand out. I wore it to a meeting once and someone made a comment that I was an “authentic cowgirl” and the other person in the meeting responded, “you have to be authentic if you can pull that shirt off.”

This shirt is a little more subtle, but still has the splash of pink and turquoise! You can also see the iconic “w” pockets on this Wrangler shirt very well.

Vintage Roper Shirt

I always get compliments when I wear this Vintage Roper shirt. I love the laid back red color and fun patterns. I love that the pockets don’t stand out on this shirt.

Vintage Panhandle Slim

This is a shirt that my Papa gave me. He said the flowery pattern suited my style. I love the pearl snaps on this shirt because are a pretty golden color. This is one of my fancier shirts I wear when I need to dress up! It pairs nicely with bell bottoms or bootcut jeans!

Concluding Thoughts

I enjoy styling these vintage Western shirts and wearing them to work! I love the family history behind them and the colors are just great.

I hope you’ll join me again soon for more Western fashion ideas! 🙂