The Painted Pony

Sometimes I feel like I've lived many lives. There's so many strange little facts about my life that most people will never know. I guess it's only here that I get to share some of what makes me ME.

While I have lived many places, South Dakota is where I call home. It's where I've lived the most. And where I live now is the longest place I've ever lived. I guess I have a little bit of that gypsy blood in me and when I see something that reminds me of home gets me a little homesick. But it's so amazing to have a new place to call home, especially for my kids.

South Dakota, I have often said, is much like Yellowstone. Okay, while there aren't as many murders and far less drama, there is something very much wild and untamed about it. The people are down to earth, hearty and unique.

While living in South Dakota, I had a friend who was Native American. She was absolutely beautiful- jet black long hair, chocolately brown eyes and a beautiful smile. She had a big family that was crazy in a good way and I got to know them too. One summer I played for their family softball team. One of the only times I ever played softball and needless to say, this blonde haired, green eyed girl stuck way out.

I often wonder where she is now. I've tried stalking her on social media with no luck. She was Lakota Sioux, wild, got married young. And I often think of her.

I struggled to find a great picture of a painted pony for you but this is as close to what I could find for free but it could be just a pinto. A painted pony is a two-tone color variation in the coat of the horse and a particular breed

. Paints allowed the Native Americans to keep up with the buffalo herds and were given magical properties by them, especially those with “medicine hat” markings. The Native Americans believed these horses could protect them from death or injury during a conflict.

What does that have anything to do with today's outfit? Well, my coat reminds me of a painted pony. The painted pony coat reminds me of my friend. My friend reminds me of the west. The west reminds me of Yellowstone. It's amazing how my mind works.

If you want to see what a war painted horse looks like, click here: https://br.pinterest.com/pin/475763148106396129/

You are going to want a coat like this for this season. Different patterns and versions of this are everywhere. I encourage you to break away from the solid black. You don't have to settle for a coat that everyone in the entire world has, try something that speaks just to you!

I found this great song on YouTube but I can't tell for sure who wrote or performs it. I hope you enjoy it!

Ten Gallon Hat

What's western wear without a hat, right? This is my Chris Stapleton 10 gallon hat. A ten gallon hat just means a really tall, broad brimmed hat. Which I literally wore to one of his concerts. I would totally see him again in a heartbeat. Amazing singer.

I sincerely love it's feathers and retro vibes. It makes my heart happy, even if it's black.

I paired my ten gallon with a tribal print vest which I bought at my local drugstore. Love small town America! And guess what shirt I am wearing...Yellowstone! Purchased at a boutique in said small town. Sorry, it's a little wrinkly here.

I topped off the outfit with some vintage turquoise rings and necklace and a pair of cowboy boots.

But these fields tho....all the heart eyes!

Would you wear the 10 gallon?

Yellowstone, The Style Continues

I'm addicted. I admit it. Not only to the show, but also to the fashion. Who doesn't love cowboy hats and boots?

So it's time for a little western inspo photo shoot of my own. And there has never been a better time to do it. It's harvest time and the colors are so gorgeous. I love how the sun hits the corn or the beans just right and they absolute glow. Sit back and enjoy fields of gold.

In these next posts I will teach you how to dress in some western inspired style without joining the rodeo. Western fashion is easy to wear, comfortable and trendy this fall. Gee, I wonder why...

Here's an outfit that I bet most of you have at least some of the pieces for in your closet right now. Jeans, thermal top? Check. Vest? Check. Check. Bonus points for a fuzzy vest, animal print vest or other cuddly item. Pretty much any fabric that could also be thrown down in front of a fire and used as a rug. Think-

What makes this outfit a little more western is the print on the sleeve of my thermal. You can find tops like this at Amazon or your local boutique. I am giving you fair warning that this year, I may overload you with Aztec print. Learn to love it!

So, I gotta know, who's your favorite character? Clearly I love them all but Rip has a special place in my heart.

Stop back all week for more western fashion fun!