Calgary Stampede Outfits: How To Plan What To Wear To Fit In

Are you going to the Calgary Stampede, and wondering what you should wear to fit in? I’ve now been to the Stampede twice, as well as rodeos, country music festivals and country concerts so I’ve learnt a few things about Western wear, and Stampede attire. I am all about dressing the part, and dressing up a little, especially at the Stampede.

The Stampede aka “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” is a great opportunity to get dressed up. I am a firm believer that with a little bit of time and effort, you can easily dress well at Stampede in a way that embraces the Western vibes of the event while staying true to your style. You just need to figure out what works for you.

If you are looking for some guidance, inspiration and plenty of practical tips to put together cute outfits look no further. I’ve got you covered. Read on for a run-down of all things Western attire and how to get yourself Stampede-ready!

Things To Consider When Planning Your Outfits For The Stampede

Firstly, you need to know that Calgary in July is hot, and the Stampede is jam-packed with activities. You will spend many hours each day in the heat in your outfits. You will also do a lot of walking so you will want to be comfortable.

Secondly, you will be doing anything from fairground rides and rodeos to drinking in Nashville North every day. Stampede starts daily with pancake breakfasts and runs through to late-night dancing in party tents, and after parties. It means you need Western-inspired looks that will work from day to night.

The key is Western-Inspired outfits that will take you from day to night in style.

Lots of people will also surround you. Plus if you are single, there will be a lot of men in cowboy hats….literally everywhere.

Stampede Outfits: Create Your Base

Every Stampede outfit starts with a base that will work during the day and at nighttime. If you look at photos of me on my blog or social media you’ll see that I mostly live in pretty dresses or cute skirts and tops.

It’s no different for the Stampede. Don’t think that you have to buy new outfits in their entirety to create your Western looks. You can easily style up pieces you already have to make them work.

For each of your Stampede looks, you just need to start with the piece/pieces that you can build on.

Summer Sundresses

You can not go wrong with lightweight, flattering sundresses that you feel pretty in. They are a Stampede outfit staple piece because they are so versatile, and you will be glad for thin flowy dresses in the early-July Calgary heat. You can easily style them, and layer them when it gets chilly. If you want to add a belt to cinch in your waist opt for a Western-style one.

Pretty floral sundresses always feature heavily as a base for my Western looks, as they also always look great with cowboy boots.

Boho, Cottage Core & Floral Sundress

If you don’t have any dresses that will work or want to get some new ones, I’d recommend starting your search by looking for Boho, Cottage Core and Floral dresses. These are my go-to styles as they all seem to always work well with cowboy boots and Western accessories.

Pretty Tops & Cute Summer Skirts

The other staples for all of my outfits is pairing a lightweight summery top with a loose-fitting skirt. I wear a lot of strapless tops as I think the off-shoulder look gives outfits a bit of a boho/gypsy look that I really like. I also think off-shoulder tops are generally just flattering on everyone.

Floral, lace or crochet tops also work well as a base for Stampede outfits. If you like crochet, just avoid heavier fabrics as you will get too hot.

Stampede Outfits: Denim Is Always A Good Idea

Denim is a staple in Western wear so you won’t go wrong if you opt for denim as either your base or an accent to your outfit. It’s so versatile and it’s an easy way to make any outfit look more Western. Here are a few suggestions of pieces that you may already own:

Denim Jeans – If jeans are your thing, go for light to medium-wash denim. Distressed jeans are also a great pick for the Western look. For the classic cowboy look, Wrangler and Levis are the jeans to go for. If you usually wear a belt with your jeans, opt for a Western-style belt. If you don’t own one, check out your local thrift stores, any Western store or some fashion sites for options at different price points. But a belt is not essential at all.

Denim Shorts – The same rules apply for denim shorts. Go for light to medium wash, with or without any distressing will look the part.

Denim skirts – As the Stampede Park grounds can get hot. You will also constantly be alternating between sitting and walking I’d recommend against really tight denim skirts. But if denim skirts are your thing, just go for lighter denim.

Denim Dresses – Does anyone else love a cute denim or faux denim dress? This dress that I wore at my first Stampede (pictured above) is a great example of a denim dress that is easily accessorized. Any shade of denim could work for denim dresses. But I’d suggest lighter shades of denim, or mixed fabrics where denim is the main fabric for Stampede.

Denim Shirt – At the Stampede it can be scorching hot one minute, chilly and rainy the next. So you could add a lightweight light denim shirt to your outfits to make them more western. Opt for one where you can easily roll the sleeves up and/or tie it around your waist. Also, I’d recommend only wearing a denim shirt as a cover-up rather than a base for your outfit.

Denim Jacket – Most of us own a denim jacket. For Stampede they are perfect for layering to take you from day to night. The only caution is that you will be carrying it or wearing it over your shoulders during the day and in the tents. When it gets a little chilly you will be happy to have it though. Any denim will work but I usually opt for light to medium shades when I am dressing

Stampede Outfits: Cowgirl Boots

Cowgirl boots, while not essential, are highly recommended to include in your Stampede outfits. Adding a pair of Western-style boots to any cute outfit will just instantly get you looking Stampede-ready! And cowboy boots are generally always a wear-all-day low heel making them perfect for walking thousands of steps around Stampede Park.

There are a few different styles of Western-inspired boots ranging from over-the-knee and traditional cowboy to ankle boots. I treated myself to authentic cowboy boots for my first trip to Stampede so I always wear my traditional cowboy boots with all my outfits. If you are new to Western boots or worried about your feet getting way too hot I’d suggest going for ankle boots or no longer than traditional cowboy. Surprisingly my feet rarely get hot in my boots.

If you don’t already own any Western-inspired footwear, you should find it fairly easy to find some. You also do not need to pay out for expensive traditional boots – so if that’s been stopping you from getting some boots, read on.

Western-inspired Boots To Suit Different Budgets

There are three different western-inspired boot styles I opt for during the Stampede, depending on the rest of my outfit — over-the-knee, traditional cowboy (a great option for both men and women) and western-inspired ankle boots. Bonus: each of these styles features a comfortable, wear-all-day low heel!

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on a pair of boots. If you are on a budget for your Stampede outfits, you have a few options for Stampede boots depending on how much you want to spend.

There are three types of cowgirl boots at very different price points for you to choose from for your Stampede outfits.

Just For The ‘Gram, Inexpensive Cowgirl Boots

If you are on a very tight budget but you want boots, these are your best option. They are essentially fast-fashion boots made from faux leather or 5% leather….and a lot of glue! But it’s unlikely that anyone will be studying your boots close enough to take much notice.

Shop for fast-fashion cowgirl boots on fashion sites like ASOS and SHEIN,

Mid-Range Fashionable Cowgirl Boots

If you have a bit more money to spend on your boots you want them to be of a slightly better quality, you will probably look at mid-range fashion boots. These are your middle-ground options – you will get 100% leather for a higher investment.

You will get these from non-Western brands, and prices will range significantly from fairly low cost to high-end designers.

Brands like Toral and Paris Texas will have these types of boots.

Authentic Western Cowgirl Boots

If you want cowgirl boots that will last for years, get authentic ones from a Western brand. I have had mine for almost 9 years. I got them re-soled for the first time this year ready for the 2024 Calgary Stampede.

If you are willing to spend a few hundred dollars on your boots, they will last you far longer than any other boots you own.

They won’t be fashion boots, or flashy in any way like your fast-fashion or mid-range boots. However, they will be the real deal. If you can afford it, they are worth the investment.

Go to authentic Western stores, or look at brands like Corral, Alberta Boot, Ariat or Old Gringo for authentic boots.

Important Tips For Your Cowgirl Boots

No matter where you get your cowgirl boots from or whether they are brand new or pre-worn, you will need to break them in before Calgary Stampede. Otherwise, you will end up with pretty painful sore feet.

Also, never wear your boots with bare feet. Always wear socks. Opt for full-length socks rather than ankle socks for your boots as well.

If you opt for the real deal, keep them as close to OG as you can when it comes to repairs. Get real leather re-soles rather than rubber.

Stampede Outfits: A Western Hat

At the Stampede you will see a lot of Western hats, literally everywhere! Most of the hats you will see will be traditional cowboy hats, which I love, but it is not essential at all. During Stampede I don’t wear a Western hat every day, I just add one to my outfit when I feel like it needs some extra Western styling to make it work or when it’s scorching hot.

A Western hat will shield your face from the Calgary summer sun or impromptu rain!

If you want to wear a hat, but not the traditional cowboy style, you could opt for a flat-brimmed, floppy, or straw hat. All these options could work if the rest of your outfit is Western-looking. In fact in the market at the BMO Centre during the Stampede you will see a variety of hats of different styles and colours.

Get Creative With Your Western Hat

You also do not need to spend a lot of money on a hat. The real deal is not required for Stampede. If you have a hat that will work as it is, or will work with a little creativity then go for that. You could also get a simple hat and embellish it to make it look fancier. I got so many compliments about this hat which is a straw cowboy hat from Stephens Ave in Calgary. I just added a bandana to it to inject some of my personality into it with a pop of colour.

Calgary’s Iconic White Hat

If you want to really embrace the Stampede style, you can’t go wrong with a white Western or Western-looking hat. Calgary’s iconic white hat debuted at the 1947 Stampede Parade, and receiving one by Smithbilt Hats is an international honour. It’s also regarded as a symbol of the Calgarian hospitality you will experience at Stampede.

These days you can buy your very own white hat. Go to Smithbilt Hats in Calgary if you want to splurge. Otherwise, you can get a white hat in a range of styles, materials and price points on and off the park.

Get A Cheap Cowgirl Hat In Calgary

Arrived in Calgary and you have no Cowgirl hat? Fear not. You do not need to spend a lot of money on a branded Calgary Stampede cowboy hat…unless you want to! After all, they can be pretty pricey. If you are on a budget and just want a hat, there are cheaper options available away from Stampede Park.

Stampede Outfits: Western-Style Bag

To get a Western look, add either suede, fringe, saddle or brown leather to your outfits. By adding one or several of these things into your Stampede bag you will make your whole outfit look more Western.

Cross-Body Bags Are Your Best Option

My go-to for Stampede is a cross-body bag that can be worn across body or on the shoulder. I would caution against choosing a bag that you have to carry in your hands all the time. It will get annoying fast. From taking photograph’s, to dancing in tents and enjoying the sights and sounds, you need your hands free.

Do not opt for a clutch bag – they are an absolute no for Stampede or festivals in general

Play With Colours & Textures

If you want something less Western and more boho, a colourful leather bag or a naturally woven one will work. There are tons of pretty colourful bags and natural nude tone and texture bags available in stores and online at all different price points.

Stampede Outfits: Accessorize Your Looks

By this point, you hopefully have the main pieces of all your outfits figured out. The last step is to add some finishing touches. Accessories are an easy way to add more unique pieces to your outfits that reflect your style and personality. Stampede is also a great time to experiment with accessories that you wouldn’t usually wear. If you are feeling brave, go a bit bolder and more daring than you would usually.

If you’re not sure how to accessorize your outfits to complete your Western looks, here are a few suggestions:

Sunglasses

If you only add one accessory to your outfits make it a nice pair of sunglasses. Sunglasses are always a Stampede staple. You need them for protection from the sun. If you will have late nights you will also be glad of them to hide your hangover or tired eyes.

Sunglasses are also a really easy accessory to be playful with. They can make an outfit look more boho, more western or more modern by trying different styles and lenses. For instance, pink lenses and more interesting shapes could give your outfits a boho edge. Or for a more classic or glam look, black lenses with gold-edged or sparkle embellishment on the frames would work.

Jewellery

This is your permission to be playful, and showcase your personality with your jewellery. More is truly more at Stampede so have fun with it. Experiment with different jewellery, stack bracelets, layer necklaces. You have so many options. These are things to look for in your jewellery box, in stores or online to pull your looks together.

Gold hoops
Long dangly earrings
Beaded earrings
Layered necklaces
Silver & Turquiose vintage pieces
Gemstone pendants
Novelty western pieces like cowboy boot earrings
Vintage rings
Anything with some kind of fringing

Scarves, Handkerchiefs & Bandana’s

Vintage scarfs, handkerchiefs and bandanas can be a great finishing touch for your western-inspired looks. They are also just as practical as they are stylish for outdoor summer festivals. So they are a great thing to have on hand generally.

Here are a few ways that you can use scarves to accessorize your outfits:

Tie a vintage, floral, or western-patterned scarf around your neck.
Wear a scarf as a headband as an alternative to wearing a hat
Add a bandana or scarf to a plain cowboy hat for a pop of colour.
Use a vintage, floral, or western-patterned scarf to embellish a plain bag. Simply tie it to the strap or handle of your bag.
Wear a vintage or western-style scarf as a shawl to protect your shoulders from the Calgary sun.
Use a scarf or a bandana for the afternoon rodeo. Fold it like a bandana to protect your nose and mouth from all the dust.

Stampede Outfits: How To Create Your Looks For Less

Raid Your Closet

Before you start spending any money on Stampede outfits do a thorough raid of your closet, bags and jewellery. I am betting you have things that you can work with like some denim or a nice summer dress.

Thrift Stores

Thrift stores can be an absolute goldmine. Look for denim pieces, cute summer dresses, and summer tops that would work to create Western looks. The bag, belt, scarves and jewellery sections are also always worth a look, especially for nice vintage jewellery.

Fast-Fashion Retailers

Besides my closet and local thrift stores, I get all my Stampede and Western looks from fast fashion retailers. You can get nice pieces at very low prices. My current favourite is Shein, especially for summer dresses, denim tops and Western accessories. I also think they have a great range of Western-style boots that would work perfectly for the Stampede.

Experiment & Get Creative

The great thing about Western style is that it is really easy to create on a budget. It also lends itself well to the handcrafted look. So if you are a creative person, and you have time, there are lots of things that you can do. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Add feathers, ribbon, a scarf, or jewels to a plain hat
Make simple bead bracelets
Pull apart jewellery that you never wear and make new pieces from it. I made the butterfly earrings I’m wearing with this blue floral dress from an old necklace.
Use costume jewellery from a thrift store to create necklaces; as a starting point look for things like silver and gold chains that are the right length for necklaces and bracelets, stones and faux stones, silver & turquoise, and pretty beads.

Create A Western-Inspired Look For Your Stampede Adventures

Most of all just be creative with your Stampede looks. Do not get too stressed about it – it’s meant to be fun. If you go for Western or boho looks you will fit in just fine with everyone. What matters most is that you feel comfortable and confident in whatever outfits you choose. I hope this post gave you some helpful ideas and inspiration to get you started, and that you will have a great time at the Stampede!

Learn More About The Calgary Stampede

Share Me

If you found this post helpful, share it or pin it! It’s one of the best ways to show your support. Thank you!

Gemma Lawrence

Gemma Lawrence is the creator of This Brits Life. Born and raised in England, she has been living in British Columbia, Canada as a permanent resident since 2016. A solo traveler for the past 9 years, she hopes to inspire and help others to enjoy solo adventures too. As someone who has always struggled with her self-confidence and mental health, she also shares tips and inspirational stories relating to self-love, self-care, and mental health.

THIS BRITS LIFE

Read The Blog

Calgary Stampede Outfits: How To Plan What To Wear To Fit In

Things To Consider When Planning Your Outfits For The Stampede