Here in H-town, we have some Rodeo traditions that mark the beginning of our famed Rodeo season. It starts with the small glimpses of “Trail Riders,” that begin to pop up around town. Chuck wagons, horses and cowboy hats start to penetrate our way of life and slowly Rodeo takes over. Last weekend, on our way to dinner my husband drove past a barricade of police lights and to our delight they were escorting a newly arrived Trail Ride Association to their camp ground. That small incident brought back so many reminders. These riders make the journey from different places in Texas to Houston, living as our ancestors did on the open land.
A LITTLE FAMILY HISTORY
Many moons ago, as a little girl, there was always so much excitement when the Cowboys came to town. It meant that Grandpa was home. The association he rode with was the longest of the Trail Rides that came to Houston, originating on the Rio Grande Texas/Mexico border. He was a man of many “hats,” he was a Veteran, a Cowboy, and a city-slicker in a suit. During Rodeo season he was a “Vaquero,” and it was his favorite time of year. That is what and who I was reminded of.
There is a Parade Saturday Morning and the BBQ Cookoff that mark the beginning of our Rodeo Season. This year, I don a hat, boots and my best Grandpa Jeans to honor my favorite “Vaquero,” on “Go Texan Day.”
COAT
This coat is 22 years old, from Express, and I wish I could link it for you. It’s suede and lined in shearling and the warmest coat I own. Some years it doesn’t even see the outside of my coat closet, since we don’t get THAT cold in Houston.
JEANS
These jeans have become my favorite! They are the product of a recent impromptu in store try on and I fell in love. The straight leg fit and high waist are very flattering for this momma’s FUPA!! These are size 4 and fit TTS, and the best part is they are under $40!!
CLASSIC WHITE BUTTON DOWN
Classic white button downs and white tee shirts are a personal weakness. I can’t pass them up, they are so versatile and make outfits fresh and chic. THIS one is a great linen oversized shirt that lends texture and interest to a basic white button down. It is a great addition to a spring outfit and will work well in the summer due to it’s breathability! Linen = the perfect summer fabric! At a $24 price point it is a must have! I am wearing a size Small, in an oversized fit.
HAT
This hat is over 20 years old and a true testament to the rich heritage of its brand of American craftsmanship and 150 years of tradition. It’s a classic and worth the investment. You can find it and many more HERE.
When it comes to boots, I like real Cowboy official looking worn in boots for Western wear. If they don’t look like my Grandpa wore them to ride his horse, then they are not my kind of boot!! LOL! I purchased THESE boots in the 90s and haven’t looked back. Great investment!
In Houston, the best places for boots are:
- Cavendars (Get those Tony Lamas!!)
- Gomez Western Wear (great place to have boots made, special order!!)
- Tecovas (Totally Texas!! Great Customer Service)
- Academy (Best prices, kids boots at a good price!! I buy only brown boots to pass down from my oldest daughter to my son to my youngest daughter. Three wears for the price of 1!!
If you are a native Houstonian, or plan to visit Houston during Rodeo, I wish you a fun and festive Season! We are talking 20 days of livestock, the best Carnival in Texas, fried foods, BBQ, western wear and singing cowboys every single day!! Get your Rodeo on!!
XX, Ericka
