Yeehaw, babe — Stampede season is coming in hot.
Whether you're two-steppin' in the Nashville North tent or just there for the mini donuts and vibes, one thing's for sure: your outfit matters. Calgary Stampede 2025 is set to be bigger, louder, and more stylish than ever — and we’re breaking down exactly what you need to wear to turn heads (and maybe snap a few Instagrams that break the internet).
So if you're wondering what to pack, wear, or panic-buy in the final 48 hours before the gates open, this is your ultimate western fashion roadmap.
1. Fringe Is Still Your Best Friend
Fringe isn’t going anywhere — and frankly, we don’t want it to. 2025 is all about modern fringe moments: think fringe jackets in bold colors, fringe minis that flirt with every breeze, and fringe handbags that say, “I know what I’m doing.”
Styling tip: Pair a cropped fringe jacket with high-waisted denim shorts and boots. It screams, “I came to line dance, but I also read Vogue.”
2. Denim on Denim (a.k.a. The Canadian Tuxedo’s Revenge)
The denim game in 2025? Ruthless. We’re talking oversized denim jackets, rhinestone-studded jeans, and patchwork details that make you feel like a Pinterest board come to life.
Rule of thumb: Mix denim tones to keep it fresh. Light-wash jacket + dark-wash jeans = effortlessly chic.
3. Statement Boots or Bust
If your boots aren’t saying something loud, what are they doing? Think metallics, neon stitching, animal print inlays — the wilder, the better. Boots are the unsung heroes of the Stampede fit, and in 2025, they’re stepping into the spotlight.
Pro tip: Break them in early. Blisters at the beer tent? Not the vibe.
4. Hats: The Crown of the Cowgirl
Wide-brimmed, felt, straw, embellished — if you’re not topping off your look with a hat, you’re missing out on both fashion and sun protection. Double win.
2025 is leaning into custom hat bands, pins, and charms to make your headwear just as expressive as your fit.
5. Wild Prints & Loud Graphics
Western doesn’t mean neutral anymore. Leopard? Welcome. Tie dye? Absolutely. Custom graphic tees with cheeky phrases like “Wrangle Me” or “Whiskey Bent”? Say less.
Millennial moment: Layer your graphic tee under a corset or tuck it into a leather mini. Instant outfit.
6. Accessories Are Not Optional
Layered silver necklaces, turquoise statement rings, charm belts, bolo ties — Stampede accessories are about more-is-more energy. Your jewelry should jingle when you walk, period.
Bonus: Clip-on boot charms are in this year. Yes, that’s a thing. And yes, you need them.
7. The Comfort-Fashion Sweet Spot
Let’s be real: you’ll be walking, dancing, sweating, possibly running from a mechanical bull. So while we’re all about the look, don’t sleep on breathable fabrics and stretchy waistbands.
2025 MVPs: Rompers with built-in shorts, tiered flowy skirts, and cowboy boots that actually feel like clouds.
8. Genderless Western Looks Are Thriving
Stampede 2025 is serving inclusivity. Oversized blazers with pearl snaps, embroidered shirts in every fit and cut, and accessories that work for literally everyone. Fashion has no gender — and the wild west is finally catching up.
9. Vintage + Upcycled = Extra Cool Points
Eco-chic is the moment. Stampede fashion this year includes reworked vintage western shirts, thrifted boots, and jackets made from reclaimed denim.
Tip: Check local Calgary vintage shops or hit up markets during Stampede week. That one-of-a-kind jacket? It’s waiting for you.
10. The Final Rule: Wear It Loud
If you’re nervous you might be doing too much — babe, you’re doing it right. Stampede is not the place for minimalism. It’s rhinestones, fringe, and big yeehaw energy.