Whether you like them or not, cowboys are back in fashion. From fedoras to flannels, ‘The Wild West’ trend has everyone including Vogue reaching for their sheriff badges to be masters of the folk hero’s look. But why are we so obsessed with the cowboy aesthetic, is there appeal in the half-real, half-mythological symbol of the American West other than the sexual fantasy it is so typically associated with? Perhaps it’s just a continuation of the fashion fantasy to look rougher and tougher than we actually are.
While brands like Isabel Marant and Ralph Lauren have been pioneers of the Wild West for years, more designers have jumped on the bandwagon for the AW14 season. Maybe it’s all thanks in part to Chanel’s Pre Fall show in Dallas that got us all giddy once again for cowboy hats.
Perhaps the most interesting collection to reference this season’s Wild West trend has to be from iconic French house Lanvin. Known for their relaxed tailoring and casual cuts that draw on sportswear and often feature technical fabrics and unfinished hems, Lanvin has ventured to new lands for the new season by offering a range of garments that each draw on typical western elements like traditional fabrications and design details. But the particular standouts for me were the shirts like this grey flannel design with its clean lines and snap buttons, the perfect shirt to nod to the trend without looking like a you’re wearing a costume.
But it doesn’t look like the Wild West trend is going anywhere, presenting his SS15 Saint Laurent collection with ponchos and bolo ties, Hedi Slimane is ensuring that the cowboy isn’t riding off into the sunset anytime soon. So don’t put those boots away just yet.