How to Dress Like a Cowgirl Going to a Dance

Change your appearance and dress like a cowgirl.

Cowboys are a heroic icon and a symbol of simpler times. Cowboys and cowgirls became known after the Civil War, when many ranchers across the American plains needed workers to round up cattle and keep livestock in check. If you're attending a dance, you may find that dressing up like a cowgirl offers you the chance to not only reflect on American history, but have a good time in the process.

Instructions

1. Choose a plaid, button-down shirt or a denim jacket to wear over an ordinary tee. Nothing says "cowgirl" like plaid and denim, so don't be afraid to play up this stereotype as you prepare your outfit.

2. Wear a denim skirt for a classy, fancy appearance or if you're going to a dance in cold weather, choose tight jeans. Avoid flare jeans or cargo pants and instead opt for close-fitting boot cut jeans.

3. Pull on a pair of comfortable, worn cowboy boots and top your head with a cowboy hat. Wear your hair down or pulled back in a loose ponytail. Don't curl your hair or try to spice up your outfit with high heels. Keep it simple and realistic. Remember that most cowgirls spend the better part of their day roping cattle and trudging through manure, so excessive hairspray isn't necessary.

4. Keep your makeup simple and modest. Instead of dark blue eye shadow and bright red lipstick, opt for natural eye shadow and minimal lip gloss.

5. Tie a bandana or kerchief around your neck to complete your cowgirl look. Tie it loosely and knot it in front. Choose something that complements the color of your shirt. For example, if you chose a red-and-black plaid top, a black bandana would nicely complement your shirt.

References

• Big Sky Cowgirl; How to Dress Like a "Real" Cowboy: 5 Crucial Elements; June 2011
• "Cowgirls: Women of the Wild West"; Elizabeth Clair Flood; 2000
• Utah Education Network: What Does a Cowboy Do?