The smell of hairspray and the feelings of anticipation that accompany pageant days are just a mere moment of the the work that should go into preparing for a rodeo queen competition.
When it comes time for your pageant, the most important thing to have is confidence and confidence comes through preparation.
Interviews, speeches and horsemanship all take a great deal of practice weeks or even months before a contest and while this preparation is vital, focusing strictly on them can make you miss preparing the finer details.
With the number of competitive elements in a rodeo queen competition, clothing and wardrobe can almost feel secondary to pageant prep.
However; most pageants count points toward appearance and rodeo queens are known for their western clothing and fashion statements.
Even still, it is an element of pageantry commonly overlooked. Don't make that mistake by considering these five clothing tips.
Try, Try it On
Never trust that belt that fit two months ago or that shirt that was just snug on your arms. Having a trustworthy wardrobe comes with knowing that each aspect of an outfit will work for you when you need it.
Think about your outfits two or even three weeks before your pageant. Try on each piece to ensure proper fit and clean appearance.
This may seem like common sense, but a common emergency I have seen rodeo queens experience is a last-second rush for wardrobe after discovering last-year's dress is just a little too tight the night before competition.
Consider Color
When deciding upon the color of your outfits, you should think about more than just what looks good with your skin tone.
Different colors look better in different environments. Do your research and find out as much as you can about the stage, arena, etc that you will be competing in and take in the background and lighting.
Try to plan outfits that will compliment the environment and avoid wearing colors that might clash. You should also consider if an area is lighter or darker and wear alternate colors to either brighten you up or ensure you aren't going to be washed out.
Judge your Jewelry
While rodeo queens are known for bling, there is a fine line to walk to avoid overdoing your jewelry.
Try on all your jewelry with your outfit and gauge if it looks clean and professional or a little too much. If you're ever unsure, it's a good idea to consider that less is more.
After you are satisfied with your selection, don't underestimate a good shine and use proper jewelry cleaner to prep your bling.
Boots to Belt
Your boots and belt can make or break an outfit. Make sure that your belt and boot always match and at least compliment your out fit (they should be the same color as your outfit).
Don't just spray off your barn boots and expect that you will look the part of a rodeo queen. Choose clean, un-scuffed boots that match your outfit well and be sure to wear dress boots with your dresses and riding boots for riding.
As for your belt, it should be a replica of what's on your feet, blue, black or purple, your boots and your belt should be the same.
Don't Forget the Spare
No matter how much prep and planning you do, there are inevitable complications that will come on competition day.
If by chance you run into a wardrobe malfunction, you could be faced with a great deal of stress, but by planning ahead and packing a spare you can save yourself a great deal of heartache.
Just like your go-to outfit, your back up should be planed out and prepped in the same way on the off chance that it becomes your competition outfit.
Preparation is Key
Clothing might seem like a silly thing to put so much thought and effort into, but by preparing even the finest details of your wardrobe well in advance can help you to feel prepared and ready on pageant day.
Never overlook the finer details and remember that confidence comes from your preparations.
For more advice or recommendations on your own pageant wardrobe, feel free to reach send us a message on our Cowgirl to Queen contact page for a consultation.
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