Dress codes can be a moving target, and nothing can be more confounding to professionals of the Centennial State than the phrase, “Colorado casual.”
It’s been adopted by companies across the state, from tech startups to insurance broker IMA Financial Group. At its best, it’s a pair of smart, well-tailored jeans paired with a blazer and button-down shirt. At its worst (or most outdoorsy, depending on how you look at it), it’s performance fleece, a T-shirt and hiking boots paired with those jeans.
Colorado casual’s origins are unclear, but Urban Dictionary lovingly refers to it as John Denver Formal.
Whatever your take, it boils down to being fuss-free, comfortable and showing off some Western flair. Still not quite sure? Ladies, here’s a little Pin-spiration for you, compliments of pinner Bonnie Hermann.
That Western flair is key, especially in January, when we welcome the National Western Stock Show and get to play cowboy for a few weeks.
If you’re coming to Denver for Boots ‘n Business or a rodeo, here are a few tips:
- Find the right fit. 5280 says that every Coloradan should know how to wear a cowboy hat—and that comes down to fit. Outfitters like Rockmount Ranch Wear and Greeley Hat Works can set you up.
- Belt it and snap it. Whether you want to showcase a buckle you won at your last rodeo or you just know the value of keeping your pants at your waist, a belt is an essential part of any western outfit. And, Colorado is home to Jack A. Weil, who is credited as the first to put snaps on Western shirts.
- Boots are made for walking. Whether you’re wearing practical ropers or custom ostrich boots, kick up your heels and practice your best John Wayne walk.
What’s your Western essential for the stock show or Colorado casual?
Sara Crocker is the communications manager for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
[Photo by: Chauncey Davis]
