Cavenders Ranch Blog

How To Dress Seasonally for the Outdoors

Mar 30, 2023

Men's Fashion Western Lifestyle Women's Fashion

How To Dress Seasonally for the Outdoors

How To Dress Seasonally For The Outdoors

It’s important to dress suitably for the season when attending outdoor events. This is not just about fashion, but also practicality. Wearing weather-appropriate clothing can help you stay comfortable and protect you from the elements, allowing you to enjoy your time outside during any season.

A cowboy leaning on a Ford pickup truck, accompanied by a cowgirl wearing jeans with work gloves in back pocket, set against a rustic farm backdrop. A black cow stands on the left side of the photo, with a dirt ground completing the scene.

Whether attending a winter festival, a summer barbecue, or a spring hike, here are some tips to help you dress for any season or occasion.

Winter

Winter can be a cold and harsh season, bringing snow, icy winds, or freezing temperatures. However, work doesn’t stop entirely just because it’s cold outside, and there’s always plenty to do during the holidays. Dressing suitably and shielding yourself from the weather is crucial to maintaining warmth and comfort whenever you have to head out.

What To Wear

With unique considerations for winter dressing, consider these tips on what to wear:

  • Color coordination: Natural tones like deep browns, grays, and blacks are always popular. They offer a classic and timeless look while hiding dirt and stains that can be common during outdoor activities.
  • Outerwear: Choose a durable and well-insulated men’s jacket or stylish women’s outerwear that can withstand the winter elements. A great choice would be a down-filled or synthetic insulated jacket, both of which provide excellent warmth without adding bulk. Remember to search for a coat with a high collar or hood to keep your neck and head warm, too.
  • Footwear: Investing in high-quality winter boots is vital to keep your feet warm and dry. Look for boots with insulation and a water-resistant exterior. Thicker socks made of wool or thermal materials are also essential to keep your feet cozy.
  • Accessories: Wear insulated gloves or mittens to guard your hands from frostbite. A hat or a beanie will also help retain heat and prevent heat loss through your head — and don’t underestimate the importance of a scarf to keep your neck and face warm.

You can maintain a stylish look while keeping warm and snug by choosing layers and accessories.

Cowgirl in a Cowboy Hat and Ponytail Making Final Horse Adjustments before Riding.

Spring

When planting season starts to rear its head, that means it’s time to get ready for ranching, farming, and other outdoor activities again. You’ll want clothes that’ll keep you dry during spring showers and will keep up with you as the year goes on and temperatures rise.

What To Wear

For spring events, here are some tips for what to wear:

  • Breathable fabrics: These allow you to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions. Some examples include polo shirts for men, which can be worn for casual and formal events. Women’s long-sleeve blouses will keep you cool and stylish while providing coverage against the occasional spring shower.
  • Layering: Consider wearing a light jacket that you can easily remove if it gets warmer. This way, you can adjust your clothing to match the changing weather and remain comfortable throughout your activity.
  • Footwear: Opt for women’s casual shoes or men’s shoes that provide good traction and shield your feet from mud or wet grass. Avoid delicate fabrics or light-colored shoes that may become easily stained or damaged.
  • Accessories: Stylish wide-brimmed cowboy hats and sunglasses protect you from the sun’s rays. Select the style and material of your hat according to the weather — you might wear felt hats at the beginning of spring when it’s cooler, and then switch to straw hats as it warms up.

The key is to find a balance between comfort and style and put together an outfit that can handle the variety of conditions that come in the spring.

Man in western attire and cowboy hat honing roping skills outdoors, near a barn and pickup truck.

Summer

Dressing appropriately for outdoor events during this season is all about staying cool, comfortable, and hidden from the scorching sun. With the intense heat, it’s essential to choose clothing items that provide practicality and functionality.

What To Wear

For summer events, wear comfortable and fashionable clothes, reflecting the laid-back atmosphere of the season. Let’s look at some must-have items:

  • Lightweight fabrics: Cotton or linen are the best options as they allow air to circulate and regulate your body temperature. Western shirts and vented fishing men’s tops are also excellent for summer, as they’re cool and casual while providing practicality in warm weather. Pair them with comfortable shorts or pants to complete your summer outfit.
  • Accessories: Guarding yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is essential, so opt for a hat with a wide brim that hides your face and neck. Sunglasses are another must-have accessory for outdoor functions in the summer. Look for sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from bright light.
  • Footwear: Find breathable shoes, such as men’s and women’s sandals or canvas sneakers, that prevent your feet from overheating. Make sure they also provide good support and are comfortable for walking or standing for extended periods.

When dressing for summer outings, it’s important to prioritize staying cool and protected from the sun. With the right pieces, you can enjoy your summer activities without worrying about overheating.

Two men fishing with one actively reeling in his line, while another man in a blue western shirt and ball cap prepares a new lure for his fishing pole.

Fall

When the leaves start to turn and fall off the trees, it’s time to go back to school and prepare for the harvest season. This marks the beginning of the end of the year, and this busy season demands warmer clothing to fight the chill as the weather turns. Make sure you’re prepared with pieces that can be easily added or removed, so you’re never too hot or cold while you’re out at work.

What To Wear

When it comes to autumn outdoor events, the key is to layer clothing items that provide warmth and protection against the chill without making you feel overly bulky. Here are some of our top tips:

  • Layers: Start with a lightweight, long-sleeve shirt or a thermal top to provide insulation. Pair your base layer with women’s or Western men’s jeans, a staple for fall weather. They offer both style and practicality, keeping you warm while allowing you to move freely during outdoor activities.
  • Outerwear: Choose a sweatshirt or hoodie that can be easily worn over your base layer. These cozy garments provide warmth and can be removed if the temperatures rise during the day. Choose neutral colors or earth tones that match the autumnal atmosphere. It’s also wise to wear a light jacket or cardigan to layer over your outfit for added warmth.
  • Accessories: Scarves and beanies can add a unique touch to your fall ensemble. Choose colors that complement your overall look and blend well with the fall surroundings.
Back view of a man in Wrangler jeans, wearing a western belt and shirt.

When it comes to enjoying outdoor events in the fall, it’s essential to wear fashionable and functional clothing. You can enjoy autumn activities with the proper layers while staying comfortable throughout the day. If anything is constant, it’s the changing of the seasons. Be prepared to weather the elements with the right felt hat in the cooler seasons, a nice light baseball cap or straw hat in the warmer ones, and light layers for spring and fall. You can’t change the weather — but you can change your clothes.