Western wear is more than just clothing – it’s a way of life. From your trusty cowboy boots to your go-to hat, every piece tells a story of hard work, adventure, and the Western spirit. To keep your gear in top shape and preserve its longevity, a little TLC goes a long way. Here’s your guide to the care and keeping of Western wear.
Boots That Last a Lifetime
Your cowboy boots are the backbone of your Western wardrobe. Whether you wear them in the saddle or out on the town, proper care ensures they’ll be with you for years to come.
• Clean After Every Wear: Dust and dirt can dry out leather and cause cracks over time. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove debris after each use.
• Condition Regularly: Leather needs moisture to stay supple. Apply a leather conditioner every few weeks to keep your boots looking and feeling great.
• Protect the Soles: Avoid prolonged exposure to water, which can weaken leather soles. Invest in a pair of rubber overshoes for wet weather or muddy conditions.
• Store Smartly:Keep your boots upright using boot trees or rolled-up newspapers to maintain their shape and prevent creasing.
Hats Off to Proper Care
A Western hat is both a statement piece and a practical necessity. Protecting it from damage is key to keeping it looking sharp.
• Handle with Care: Always pick up your hat by the brim, not the crown, to prevent warping.
• Brush It Down: Use a soft-bristle hat brush to remove dust, brushing counter-clockwise on felt hats and with the grain on straw hats.
• Avoid Extreme Heat: Prolonged sun exposure and high temperatures can warp and shrink your hat. Store it in a cool, dry place.
• Use a Hat Stand: When not in use, rest your hat on a hat stand to maintain its shape.
• Seasonal Care: Straw hats are great for summer but are prone to water damage. Felt hats are ideal for colder months but can lose their shape if exposed to too much moisture. Consider a hat rain cover for unpredictable weather.
Denim Done Right
Denim jeans and jackets are Western staples built to withstand rugged wear, but they’ll last even longer with proper care.
• Wash Sparingly:Washing denim too often can break down fibres and fade colour. Spot clean when possible and machine wash only when necessary.
• Turn Inside Out: Always wash denim inside out on a gentle cycle to preserve the dye and prevent fading.
• Air Dry: Skip the dryer. Hang your denim to air dry to avoid shrinking and wear on the fabric.
Leather Goods That Endure
Belts, vests, and jackets made of leather require special attention to keep them supple and stylish.
• Wipe Down Regularly: Use a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust.
• Condition Occasionally: Just like boots, leather apparel benefits from a good conditioner to prevent drying and cracking.
• Avoid Overloading Pockets:Heavy items can stretch out leather jackets and vests, altering their shape.
• Store Properly: Hang leather items on padded hangers to maintain their shape and avoid creases.
Fringe: The Iconic Detail
Fringe adds flair and movement to your Western wear, but it requires careful maintenance to keep it looking sharp.
• Untangle Gently: Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle fringe after each wear.
• Spot Clean Only: Avoid machine washing or soaking fringe, as it can lose its structure. Use a damp cloth to clean stains.
• Hang to Preserve Shape: Avoid folding fringe items to prevent creases. Hang them neatly instead.
• Keep Away from Heat: High temperatures can cause synthetic fringe to melt or lose its shape. Store in a cool, dry place.
Caring for Accessories From bolo ties to turquoise jewellery, your accessories deserve some love too.
• Polish Jewellery: Use a jewellery polishing cloth to keep silver and turquoise shining.
• Store Carefully: Keep your accessories in a lined jewellery box to prevent scratching.
• Inspect Fastenings: Regularly check clasps and settings to ensure everything stays secure.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Western wear is built to last, but it’s up to you to ensure your gear stays in great shape. With these tips, you’ll keep your Western wardrobe looking its best for years of adventures to come.
At Lammle’s Western Wear, we’re here to outfit you with pieces worth preserving. Visit us in-store or online for quality gear and expert advice on all things Western.
