After decades out of favor, prairie girl is finally back, and we couldn’t be happier.
This summer, the prairie look is going to be hitting all the right notes with ladies looking for a delicate, feminine trend. After all, what could be a more perfect contrast to all the urban and streetwear we’ve been enjoying for a few years now?
So, this season, think about heading back to the homestead. Max out on high-necklines, soft ruffles, tiered skirts, patchwork and florals for a truly nostalgic, romantic prairie look.
Combine breezy, light cotton with beautifully crafted leather shoes and bags to create an ensemble fit for ‘Little House on the Prairie.’ Something that speaks of the Gold Rush, cowboys, and campfires.
The Best of 2019
If you’re not sure about going all the way with the prairie look, there are plenty of ways of giving the prairie look a nod without going head to toe florals and ruffles.
For the second half of this year, below are the five key items to invest in this season:
The Ruffled Midi-Dress
The ruffled midi-dress gives the classic prairie look an update for the 21st century.
Take all that we love about classic prairie- tiered skirts, the billowing puffed sleeves, and ruffled high neckline – but bring up the hemline from the ankle to mid-length. A flattering fit and flare shape is less grandma, more youthful, and so much more ‘now’.
The classic prairie dress is a nostalgic, sentimental look perfect for summer vacations and relaxed city breaks. Vintage-style prairie dresses have subtle floral prints in soft pastel tones. Patchwork prairie dresses also rock that whimsical, playful feel.
This season, plenty of animal prints or block colors on prairie-style dresses featured on the runways. You can also play with bolder, updated print choices from fashion brands like Gucci, for example.
Cowboy-Inspired Ankle Boots
An incredible pair of boots will add structure to your prairie midi-dress. They’re great for balancing your outfit – a floaty dress worn with statement leather boots gives an edgier look.
To find this season’s perfect pair, you’re looking for a leather or suede ankle boot with a pointed or square toe and a Cuban heel. Run with detail that evokes the Wild West. Try cowboy fringes and the classic rounded edge top; embroidery and contrast stitching also look incredible.
Once you’ve sought out the ultimate boots, you can pair them with almost any outfit. Wearing them with jeans and skirts and a prairie-inspired blouse makes for a great weekend ensemble.
The Ruffle Blouse
A ruffle blouse can be worn in so many ways. Take it into the evening by styling it with a fitted skirt; take the Wild West to the office by wearing it with a tailored suit, or dress it down with denim.
Aside from ruffles aplenty, look out for any combination of button cuffs, peplum hems, whimsical fabric, tie-fastening, and cute button details. Or wear a modern take on the ruffle blouse; sheer fabrics update this look perfectly.
The Denim Skirt
A classic blue denim skirt is always a versatile wardrobe favorite that’s easy to dress up or dress down. This season’s best are long and A-line with jeans-style pockets and buttons running down towards the hem.
The blue denim skirt is perfect for those who want to combine pretty prairie patterns and details with something to create a more confident style, without losing the All-American girl outdoors vibe either.
Wear your denim skirt with a prairie inspired blouse. Look for a loose, ruffled style with peplum hems, flowery print, and puffed sleeves. Add your ankle boots and a leather shoulder bag to complete the look.
The Leather Shoulder Bag
To complement your prairie look, a leather shoulder Balenciaga bag (or your favorite brand) is a must.
You’re looking for a mid-size bag with details reminiscent of the homestead: embroidery, cut out panels or contrast stitching. A beautifully crafted whimsical leather bag evokes a time gone by and fits perfectly with your prairie ensemble.
If that’s not your thing and you want a cleaner, more modern look, then there are alternatives. A simpler but structured leather shoulder bag or bucket bag in a classic style and plain color will look perfect, too.
Where to Hone Your 2019 Prairie Look
Now that you know what you’re looking for, here’s where to shop for the prairie trend.
The new season at Chloe brings some fantastic prairie-inspired pieces to work into your wardrobe. Look out for their vintage-looking patchwork midi-dress or block-color contrast hem shirt dress in white linen and red silk. There’s also a beautiful pleated blouse, perfect for wearing prairie in the office.
For denim, Saint Laurent’s edgy fringed shorts or distressed jeans can balance out frills and florals, while 7 For All Mankind’s straight denim skirt is elegant and looks amazing teamed with a ruffle blouse and leather boots.
Ganni’s leather drawstring bags for 2019 are both playful and grown up. Their boots also rock the prairie look this season. Amongst the irresistible choices are croc effect ankle boots, contrast stitching on Texan cowboy boots and low suede ankle boots.
