How to Make the Cutest Cowboy or Cowgirl Costume for Halloween

Halloween is almost here, and if you haven’t found a costume for your child yet, you might be panicking. The best costumes have already been picked over in most stores, and it’s almost too late to even order something online. Well, we have a solution that will be cute and useful for more than just Halloween: Dress your child up as a cowboy or cowgirl! A cowboy costume is super easy to put together, and as long as you don’t go too over the top, some of the costume can be worn throughout the year. Here’s how:

1. Start at the top — The most distinguishing part of a cowboy or cowgirl outfit is definitely the hat. Find a felt hat with a nice brim and people will know from blocks away what your little cowboy or cowgirl is supposed to be.
2. Pearl-snap shirt — A good pearl-snap shirt will really lend an air of authenticity to your child’s costume. Think about adding a denim jacket to the mix and people might mistake your little cattle rustler for a real, live cow hand.
3. Big-buckled belt — A giant belt buckle may be your child’s favorite part of the costume. Consider looking on eBay for an old rodeo champion buckle to really impress.

4. Jeans — Not only will they be great all year round, but jeans are an essential part of the cowboy dress code. With or without chaps, a pair of kids’ jeans will help your son or daughter look the part.
5. Boots — Throw on a pair of kids’ boots and your child’s costume will be complete. For girls, we love these Old West/Jama Pink J Toe boots for a little fun or the Corral Multi-Color Butterfly Kids’ Boots for extra authenticity. For boys, take a look at these Old West/Jama Square Toe Orange-Top boots to help your son look like he just walked off the ranch.
6. Optional Props — Consider giving your cowboy or cowgirl a lasso and stick horse for some additional cuteness. If you’re looking for a real splurge here, think about adding a large stuffed cow toy for your child to rope throughout the night.

Have you ever dressed your child up as a cowboy for Halloween? Leave a comment and tell us what you thought was the cutest part of his or her outfit!

Tailgating Essentials

With football season in full swing, it’s time to talk about an important topic: Pre-Game Tailgating Parties. Being prepared for the ultimate tailgating party can mean the difference between a tailgate to remember and one you’d rather forget. Before your next tailgate, be sure you have these tailgating essentials:

• Grilling Utensils, Fuel and a Grill — No tailgate is complete without delicious food straight off the grill. Be sure your event has everything you need to provide your guests with plenty of tasty food.
• Food — Whether you plan on serving light snacks or a more complete meal, you need to bring plenty of food. Be sure to think through the entire meal when you’re packing for your tailgate. For example, if you’re planning on cooking burgers, bring a variety of toppings, too: tomatoes, lettuce, ketchup, mustard, onions, etc.

• Portable TV and Generator — You don’t want your guests to miss out on watching football while they attend your tailgate. Hook up a portable TV and generator and have the ultimate tailgating experience. If this is a little too extreme for your tastes, a radio will suffice. Just be sure your guests have a way of hearing other games.
• Coolers — Refreshments are a must at tailgates. Keep your drinks cold in coolers with plenty of ice. Be sure to keep a bottle opener and disposable cups nearby to make it easy for your guests to enjoy some refreshment.
• Paper Towels — Tailgates get messy. Bring plenty of paper towels so your guests don’t have grimy hands throughout the party.
• Proper Attire — Don’t forget to wear your team’s colors and a pair of comfortable shoes. We love wearing our favorite pairs of cowboy boots when we go tailgating because we can wear them all day long without any pain and they look great with just about anything.

Did we miss anything? What can’t you live without when you’re tailgating? Let us know in the comments!