Cattle Industry Meetings: What to wear

Between my 4-H, Cattlemen's Young Leaders, and Junior Hereford career, I've probably attended more meetings than some middle aged businessmen.

We like meetings in the beef business. It's probably because there's so much knowledge to be shared and contacts to be made, so we make every excuse to sit at a big table, use big words, and try to solve the world's problems.  

I'm headed to Calgary tomorrow to take part in some planning meetings for a brand new Young Cattlemen's Advisory Board in Canada. I'm incredibly excited about the possibilities of this board and meeting with other young cattlemen and women. 

On a shallower but still very important note, what does one wear to cattle industry meetings?

NOT manure covered boots, a flannel shirt, and overalls as some might assume. Us cattle folks actually clean up quite nicely when the chores are done and we head into town.

For me, it's something like this:

Businessy, westerny, and professional-y. 

Collared top: Pleated Poplin Blouse from Smart Set

Blazer: Notch Collar Blazer from Ricki's

Dress Pants: Easy Fit Flare Pant from Smart Set

Boots: Corral Boots Ladies Antique Saddle

Notebook: Simulated Saddle Leather Binder

Necklace: Turquoise Bead Flower Necklace from The Texas Cowgirl

Cuff: Floral Cut-Off Cuff from Ricki's

Ring: Bought at the Saskatoon Fringe Festival

A blazer, dress pants, and cowboy boots are my staples. I've included two top options depending on how formal the meeting is. Dark wash jeans may also work with this look. Bold jewelry is always welcome at cattle industry events, and don't forget your fancy leather notebook for diligent note-taking or doodling. 

In my opinion, it's important to look polished and professional when meeting with other cattle industry enthusiasts and experts. Your next job may come from one of these meetings! 

If you're a cattle gal, do you usually go for a similar look or something different? 

Cowboy Boots: A Girl Can Dream

No cowgirl gets very far without a good pair of boots.

Yesterday my parents and I made the trip down to Great Falls, Montana (a 3 hour drive) to do some shopping with my sister Jocelyn and her boyfriend Travis. For my dad and Travis, the trip entailed looking in old western antique and tack shops. For mom, Jocy, and I, it was a full day of shopping at the mall and Big R. I went with the mission to find new cowboy boots, and thankfully I found just what I was looking for at Big R in the Ariat Quickdraw boots.

I was desperately in need of a new pair, as you can see.

New boots!

Old boots- getting a little worn out

 I decided I'd outgrown the round toe and went for a square toe, as well as a higher shaft for a change. So far they're super comfortable and I'm pretty pleased with myself for the purchase! These boots will be great for everyday uses or riding. But I can't help but have a wishlist for the one day when I become a rich and famous ag tycoon. Here are my "someday" boots:

 These are both M.L. Leddy's boots. My mom told me about them after seeing them on display in Fort Worth, Texas. I'm still drooling. Unfortunately, I don't have $900 kicking around to finance these babies.

 Gorgeous boots from Old Gringo. I love how many boots now have embellishments on the toe- that's the part everyone sees anyways! The pair on the right may be my favorite. These two pairs are between $500-600.

These Dan Post boots are only $200! I love the turquoise.

Tony Lama boots for $570. Gorgeous detailing.

 One day, I will have enough boots like these for every day of the year. But, until then, I'll pinch pennies and continue to stare at these in awe. Hope you enjoy these as much as I do. Feel free to share some of your favorite wish list boots!