How the West Was Worn

Forget bucking broncos-some of the wildest sights in the West can be found right inside a cowpoke's closet. From fringed chaps and embroidered jeans to silver- spurred boots and ten-gallon Stetsons, Western wear is a uniquely American look that has romanced the entire world. Journalist Holly George-Warren and designer Michelle Freedman, aided by curator James H. Nottage, round up the different styles of this enduring trend in How the West Was Worn, an authoritative yet entertaining look at "glitterbillies," long riders, rodeo girls, and rhinestone cowboys.

Accompanying an exhibition at the Autry Museum of Western Heritage, this colorful tribute features archival photos of celebrities as well as collectibles like vintage album covers, mail-order catalogues, and sewing patterns. The lively, fact- filled text, including a foreword by country-music star and Western-wear collector Marty Stuart, makes this book a barrel of fun for fashion devotees and country music fans alike.