Wardrobe Wranglers | Fort Bend Focus Magazine

By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher

Lisa Ann and I donning our OOTD for Rodeo Uncorked!

Being raised in Houston and living in close proximity to the 713 for the majority of my life, there are specific cultural experiences that are woven into the fabric of who I am. Attending Houston Oiler games during the “Luv ya Blue” days. Buying concert tickets at Foley’s. Getting dressed up and going to Sakowitz with Mother. Seeing Elvis at the Summit. And best of all, attending the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in the Astrodome.

Lisa Ann and I had the privilege of attending Rodeo Uncorked this year – the best bites competition that kicks off the HLSR, or now, as they call it, RodeoHouston. I get rebranding and all, but it will always be the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to this Bayou City babe.

Now getting invited to this major kick off event is a thing to me – a really big thing. There are days and days of prep involved selecting the perfect rodeo ensemble. I remember fondly growing up Mother and I would shop year around for fabulous Western attire in anticipation for the big event – not to mention the shopping on site during the 20-day extravaganza! Pro Tip: The best shopping at the rodeo is the last weekend, because vendors do not want to pack up all of their wares to head home. There are deals to be had, porch sitters!

Heck, Mr. Kaminski has even driven me with girlfriends in tow to Yoakum to the Mother Ship – Double D Ranch Wear – to secure rodeo finery. They have a Sale and Warehouse Wednesday weekly online. Just sharing with friends.

So, the prep to attend this year’s Rodeo Uncorked was real. It spanned over several days, encompassed multiple wardrobe and accessory photos texted back and forth and culminated in the top two choices, depending on the weather, which can and does change in H-Town in a New York minute.

This fashion frenzy for most fabulous rodeo finery is part of my DNA. It’s how I was raised.

Fast forward to this year, and to say the least, Lisa Ann and I were underwhelmed at what we saw in regards to fashion – or lack thereof – at this year’s event. We commented on it to one another as much of what we saw we immediately deemed inappropriate for rodeo or otherwise out in public. Then, just this week, I learned the RodeoHouston shared our sentiments with their issuing of a dress code. A rodeo dress code? Really? That’s a standing ovation in my book for a beloved institution dedicated to educating our youth. Bravo RodeoHouston!

As excited as I still get over rodeo finery, the HLSR is and always will be about the children. First and foremost, it’s a family friendly event. Parents shouldn’t have to avert their children’s eyes because some lady’s bits and pieces are on display.

RodeoHouston has provided millions of dollars in scholarships to educate youth. In my opinion, they are doing the Lord’s work taking care of and providing for our young people giving them a hand up to become productive, educated community leaders. And this week, RodeoHouston stepped up again by putting their boot down. And I’ve got to say, I’m super proud of this institution that has been a big part of my life for over 50 years. Way to wardrobe wrangle RodeoHouston! See y’all next week – on the porch!

Patti Parish-Kaminski