Everyone knows denim is a wildly popular component of Western wear. From farmers to rodeo goers to leisurely-wear lovers, almost everyone has a denim garment in their closet. But why is denim so popular today? What are the reasons denim is a Western wardrobe staple? Continue reading to find out more about this beloved fabric.
Cowboys and Denim Clothes
Denim was for cowboys who herded cattle, cared for horses, and conducted construction on various buildings throughout town. Cowboys played a key role in the community that didn’t go unnoticed.
Because the intensive work took a toll on their bodies, they needed clothing that would withstand their many projects. The durable denim fabric was the right choice! Denim jeans and overalls wouldn’t falter as they worked all day long.
Durable Denim for Hard Workers
As time went on, cowboys weren’t the only ones wearing denim jeans. Farmers, miners, railroad workers, and lumberjacks all wore denim jeans to work each day. The audience of denim users grew to more professions and increased the demand.
However, denim was still a fabric solely for practical use. It wasn’t meant for fashion. Workers needed reliable clothing that was sturdy and comfortable.
The Proper Attire for a Rodeo
The tradition of using horses to round up cattle and the variety of skills involved led to people wanting to test their skills against one another in rodeos. And due to the Western origin of rodeos, participants wore denim. Although the nature of rodeos is a little different nowadays, you’ll still catch almost everyone there wearing some form of denim.
It’s one of the rodeo features that will never fade!
The Switch to Modern Denim Fashion
Today, not just cowboys and workers in laborious professions wear denim. People of all ages wear denim for fashion purposes. Because of this, denim manufacturers have extended the range of styles and designs. For example, the many different types of denim washes suit everyone’s unique style in the denim-wearing world. Beyond that, people can now choose anything from classic boot-cut to high-waisted to bell-bottom styles.
Denim is still the primary choice for working purposes, but it’s also much more common in everyday fashion now. Overall, its history, versatility, and practicality make denim a Western wardrobe staple.
Cover Photo: Adrienne Balkum