Most importantly, a western shirt should feel like a western shirt when you’re wearing it. The yoke on the front and back, the pointed panel that creates the shoulder and gives the shirt it’s shape, snap fasteners instead of buttons; these are the details that separate a shirt that’s genuinely come from the west from something that’s just worn it casually. Find ones made from a heavier material that can hold the yoke’s shape – cotton twill or flannel depending on the season – as anything too light completely ruins the silhouette.
Take note of embroidery and piping. Small, tight stitching that complements the yoke is worth paying a little extra for, but if you notice puckering or patches that aren’t stitched directly to the seams then it’s probably going to look cheap once you try it on. Pearl snaps should fit flush against your chest and click together firmly, not clatter against each other.
The fit is more important than the pattern.
Tailored slim shirts eliminate the yoke entirely, so leave room in both the body and the sleeve.
Essentially it’s not supposed to be tight to your body like a work shirt would be. Jeans and boots are staples, but your bottom half won’t make or break the outfit. Tuck it into a pair of high waisted jeans or trousers and you’re instantly smart-casual.
Leave it open with a plain T-shirt underneath and roll your sleeves up for a more lazy daytime look.
Try to avoid including any more western elements into your outfit. It speaks for itself. Leave the cowboy hats and fringe jackets to those theme parties.
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