Christine A Shoemark asked: I've been asked to a costume party. What should I wear?


Don't fret just yet! There are a lot of western costumes you can choose from. Some of the most popular costumes include the cowboy or cowgirl costume, the Indian costume, the sheriff costume and the saloon girl costume.

The cowboy costume or cowgirl costume is the classic outfit for any party with a western theme. For men, wear matching western-style shirts and pants to make you look like a cowboy. For women, you can wear a western-style blouse with a matching skirt. For a more updated cowboy or cowgirl look, you can just wear a checkered polo top and a pair of denim jeans. You may also want to thrown in a cowboy vest with tassels. Finish the outfit with standard cowboy boots.

When wearing a cowboy costume or cowgirl costume, never forget the accessories. Appear more realistic by wearing a cowboy hat.

Aside from that, you also need a leather belt with a solid, silver buckle. For a more fancy look, women can opt for leather belts with rhinestone buckles instead. Also, get a red tea towel and turn it into a neckerchief. You can also carry a lasso for that authentic Western look.

Indian Costume
Indian costumes are also very popular in western theme parties. For men, a sleeveless leather top in brown with matching leather pants can be worn. For women, think Pocahontas - wear a sleeveless leather blouse and matching short skirt. For both men and women, wear some native slippers to complete your costume. Also put on a band around your head, where you can attach one feather to it. Accessorize with beaded necklaces, bracelets, arm bands and moccasins. You can also use face paint or make-up to draw some lines on your face, and body paint or henna to create some tattoos that look genuine.

Sheriff Costume
Another popular western costume is the sheriff costume. The sheriff costume is actually quite similar to the cowboy costume. Wear a western-style shirt, fringed leather pants and a cowboy hat. A more contemporary approach is to wear a leather jacket, in black or brown, and a pair of denim jeans. The most important thing about the sheriff costume is the badge, which is attached to the sheriff's jacket. You can buy a badge at the local costume shop or even a toy store. Using some foil, you can even make your own sheriff's badge. Don't forget to put on a holster where you can place a fake handgun in, to show everyone who's in charge.

Saloon Girl Costume
For a sexier look, you can choose to wear a saloon girl costume. Wear a long-sleeved checkered top, but make it more revealing by opening some of the top buttons. Match this with either a pair of fitted denims or a mini-skirt. Finish it off with a pair of sexy pointed cowboy boots. To make it look more realistic, you can even carry pitchers or mugs of beer around!

A western-themed party is perfect for both men and women, no matter how young or old you are. This is why western costume parties are still one of the most popular kinds of costume parties for all ages. Go crazy in the Wild, Wild West with these great western costume ideas!

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