Western Atelier DARE TO BE DIFFERENT
WESTERN ATELIER; Adding More Tools To the Arsenal Stayin Wild; Catching Up With Wild Instincts Custom Leather Boss Babes; Anna Bratcher of Cowbabes Boutique
Volume 1, Issue 1 July 2017
Fashion on the Road
Outfit Selection Away From Home
Editor’s Letter….. Dear Readers, Wow!!! What an exciting and busy few months I have had! I have met so many amazing and humble people within the Western Fashion Industry recently that I feel like I should count my blessings twice; morning, noon, and night! I decided to create another tool for the already large “arsenal” within the Industry in the form of a digital magazine, by a blogger, for bloggers! Each monthly issue, I want to include bloggers, boutiques, designers, and more. I want to introduce everyone to the backstory behind some of our favorite names and brands! This month’s issue was an absolute privilege to work on and it would not have been possible without the hard work, time, and grace of those I had the honor to include. Without you all, this would not have been possible! THANK YOU!
Cover Image Model: Brandi Pooley/Western Atelier Hair/Makeup: Brandi Pooley/Western Atelier Hat: Warbonnet Hat Works Turquoise Collection: Hippie Cowgirl Couture Top: The Bleacher Babe’s Closet/Hippie Cowgirl Couture Pants: Giddy Up Glamour Boutique Boots: Double D Ranchwear Photo: Clint Pooley/Pooley Photography See page XX for item purchasing/contact info
Brandi Michelle of Western Atelier wearing a vintage skirt from Buffalo Grounds. Photo by Pooley Photography
Again, THANK YOU to all involved in making this a reality, and thank you to the readers! I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I have enjoyed creating it. If you would like to be featured in next month’s issue, please reach out to me!!! XOXO,
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Boss Babes:
Anna Bratcher Puts the Babe in Cowbabes
Brandi Pooley
Shop local….These are words to live by. I was fortunate enough to sit down with the original babe of Cowbabes Boutique located in Weatherford, Texas; Anna Bratcher and get to know more about her, her style, and the rising of the Cowbabes Empire.
BP: When opening Cowbabe’s Boutique, what was your initial inspiration and where did you get some of your style ideas from? AB: I have been involved in fashion for quite a long time. It has always been something I have loved to do, I have always been very crafty and artsy and that is how it got started. I began doing little arts and crafts eventually branching out into clothing. My husband is the person who had the idea, telling that I shop so much so I should just open a store which was my inspiration. I grew up in not the best of family conditions and have always wanted more in life which was also a big part of my inspiration. I said, let’s do it, it never hurts to try, which is how it all started; then I just branched of from there!
BP: The name of the store is Cowbabes Boutique which is very fitting considering the location near Cowtown. How did you come up with the name and is there any special meaning behind it? AB: It actually took us a very long time to come up with a name. We went back and forth, but I knew I wanted something that was different and stood out.
Boss Babe: Anna Bratcher, owner of Cowbabes Boutique AB: What’s funny is that I have noticed a lot guys, whether married, not married, always refer to women as babe which is where the babe part of the name came from. Instead of cowgirl, we went with cow then put them together to make cowbabe! 6
BP: With constant changing trends in fashion, how do you keep track of trends, decide what items to stock, and what is the Cowbabes style? AB: Style and trends are always changing and I try to always be on top of it. I never want to buy too much of something which is why we try to keep limited quantities. By doing that, we can constantly change items out and never have the same items twice. We carry sizes small through 3X and tend to carry styles close to boho and western fashions. We don’t carry a lot of formal or super dressy items but we do have a lot of items that you could dress up. We carry a lot of simple graphic t-shirts that could be made somewhat dressy by putting them on underneath a lace duster. We have a ton of dresses, tops, and cute jackets to choose from. We also carry a lot of jewelry and accessories that can be used to dress up an outfit if need be. We are also starting to carry more footwear and western boots which we tried to do a while back and decided to bring back since moving into the new store with more space.
BP: With the popularity of online shopping and more accessibility options, Anna was one of the first boutiques to offer a “live” online sale. Tell me more about how you reach out to customers via social media and more about Cowbabes online sales.
AB: There are so many ways to shop online now, and we actually just launched our new website. All of the styles we post on social media will be readily available on our website. Even with the launch of the new website, you will still be able to shop via our social media accounts by commenting or messaging us. Once a week we do a live online sale typically on Wednesday evenings, although the day may vary week to week. I started doing the live sales several months ago and found that is is a great way for out of town customers or customers that can’t make it into the store to be able to still shop with us and get a better look at our items. It has proven to be a very convenient way for everyone to be able to enjoy shopping with us. Now that our website is up and running. We have had a ton of orders coming through that way also, making shopping with us even more convenient. There is occasional special pricing or sale pricing on a lot of the items we sell through the live sales which allows us more space to bring in new items and continue to offer a wide variety for everyone.
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BP: With the recent relocation of Cowbabes into a much larger space (over 3,000 square feet), what is next for the store and what can we expect to see in the future? AB: We did just move into this new location, which is over 3,000 square feet and much larger than where we originally started which was between 600 and 700 square feet, tripling our space! As far as the year ahead, we are in the process of obtaining a warehouse, allowing our customers a lot more inventory, which will be sometime this year.
BP: Part of getting to know the places we love to shop at involve knowing more about the mastermind behind it all. What is your typical personal style from a casual night in, to a date night out?
As far as the storefront of Cowbabes, we have constant daily arrivals that come in, which will never change.
AB: My go-to right now is dusters and kimonos. I love the because I can throw on a basic V-neck pocket tee, a duster, and a necklace and be good to go. My personal style is very simple. I am not one to get super dressed up unless the occasion calls for it. My go to outfit, honestly, is yoga pants and a t-shirt (laughs.) I think it’s because of how busy I am constantly shipping items, working at the store, doing inventory, and being constantly busy, I don’t have a lot of time to actually dress up and be able to sport a lot of the items from the store. If my husband and I get a chance to go to dinner on a weekend, I’ll dress up and get out of my yoga pants (laughs.) Between the social media, website, live sales, inventory, and everything else that goes into it, I stay pretty busy. I typically ship about 600 to 1,000 packages each week! The local post office workers know me by name, recognize my pink packages, and even bring out a cart when they see me pulling in with packages. 8
AB: I always have something in the works and usually end up flying by the seat of my pants. Whenever I get an idea I think would be great, I just go with it. I try not to sit an idea too long and think about it, you just never know what I will be up to next! -BP
Cowbabes Boutique is located at 152 College Park Dr. Weatherford, TX 76086 and can be reached at (817) 901-8101. Check them out at www.cowbabesbtq.com or check them out on social media! Facebook: facebook.com/cowbabesbtq Instagram: @cowbabes_boutique
Follow Your Instincts; Staying Wild in the Idaho Mountains
There is an 8th Wonder of the World hidden away in the mountains of Idaho. A dynamic duo comprised of twin sister Cheryl Sikes and Caryl Wilson work together to bring some of the most unique, quality handmade, and fierce apparel to our industry. Here is their story... Brandi Pooley Nestled in the mountains of Idaho, 4th generation cowgirls and twin sisters, Cheryl Sikes and Caryl Wilson, originally from the Midwest are building a legacy. The owners and designers of Wild Instincts Custom Leather Clothing started their journey the same way it is today, with each other. After a tragedy struck the family, the sisters searched for an outlet for their grief and found it in Harley Davidson motorcycles. While searching for leather attire to accompany the new found love of riding, they realized that the designs were mostly “one style fits all” and geared more towards men. They put their talent and creativity together and created the first Wild Instincts garment, a pair of half chaps made from elk hide. The creativity soon spread to the sisters’ friends, all of whom began ordering their own chaps, vests, and loop bags. Although the sisters stay true to their first love, horses, their passion and talent shine brightly through in their one of a kind original patterns for Wild Instincts. Adding a jewelry line and offering a wide variety of accessories, the craftsmanship and quality speak for themselves. Living only 6 hours apart, and each with her own studio, Cheryl and Caryl have divided aspects and responsibilities of their business yet, they work together as a well oiled machine.
Wild Instincts owners and designers Cheryl Sikes and Caryl Wilson
“My sister and I make all of the items, we have no employees, we start with just a high quality hide of a deer or elk, sometimes exotics, and most items are a custom fit. Our items fit like a glove, this is the kind of second skin that we talk about,” says Cheryl Sikes. When the duo decided that they were going to start creating their own designs, they used inspiration from styles they were attracted to and began cutting out patterns; everything fell in to place after that. Sikes added, “we have always loved the smell of leather, being on a sweaty horse and having that smell creeping up, it was a no-brainer for us.” 11
When the duo introduces new designs and products to the industry, Cheryl manages the website and Caryl handles social media creating a perfect balance. The new designs are displayed and modeled at 2 to 3 shows throughout the year allowing them enough time to return to their studios and begin filling and creating the custom orders without feeling burned out. “When it comes to any order, we love using hides because each natural edge is going to be different, giving each item its own unique look even though it may be the same pattern,” said Sikes.
Bobbi Jeen Olson for Wild Instincts
When deciding on a name for their new business, the sisters put together two things that are very important to them; following their instincts and being a little wild. The name turned out to be a perfect fit aligning the beliefs and the products that Wild Instincts was built on. “A typical day at Wild Instincts is pretty relaxed until we have a deadline to hit or we are working on a new design and making sure the patterns are working. When you are doing what you love to do, there is no impatience and that makes it enjoyable to put the time in to get the results that you want.” Sikes added. Aside from relaxing days doing what they love, the most challenging aspect of the business is the setting up and tearing down of their wooden booth during shows, sometimes completely by themselves, taking about 6 hours time. When it comes to fulfilling orders, the sisters have sold both custom creations and orgininal Wild Instincts creations, even custom making a mother of the bride dress for a client in Georgia including fringe details and a custom shawl, all from a gorgeous and rich chocolate brown hide.
When it comes to personal style, the first thing that came to mind was the need for comfortable shoes while working in the studio, since the majority of their time is spent standing. When attending a show, the sisters stay true to their style and passion by dressing alike in designs from Wild Instincts. “When we first started, we said that weren't going to make only size zeros and twos, we are going to make designs that flatter all sizes from zeros to eighteens and beyond, and we have stayed true to that from the beginning.” said Sikes. The sisters also have another love, turquoise, pairing each piece perfectly with the designs from their studio.
Wild Instincts Cadillac Turquoise Buckle with Custom Belt
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Looking ahead, Wild Instincts is always coming up with new designs and creations, including unique pieces for men. Branching out with new designs is familiar territory for the sisters. Humble as ever, Wild Instincts intermittently gains design ideas from friends, family, and clients. With these suggestions they put their own spin and twist on new items, while incorporating the ideas gained from others. With any order comes the quality time put into the craftsmanship that we have come to know and see from Wild Instincts. To put into perspective the passion and product dedication the sisters have, a duster takes approximately 40 hours of continuous work with a fringe vest taking about 10 hours. One of the signature accents on these gorgeous items is the Mexican braid edging, taking about 7 times more lacing than a typical whip stitch to go the same distance. The sisters are passionate about using local artists and talent to create some of the accents on their products such as polished antler buttons from moose, deer, caribou, and elk. Each antler type has its own unique characteristics and has its place with certain garments, carefully chosen by the duo.
Bobbi Jeen Olson for Wild Instincts
The Wild Instincts name is synonymous with gorgeous pieces and quality craftsmanship. Sisters Caryl and Cheryl started with an idea, and this idea has grown into a passion that has become shared and loved by many, and many more to come. The gorgeous and talented Bobbi Jeen Olson of Arizona, models many of the Wild Instincts designs, bringing a western and rustic feel to each custom piece. Look for Caryl, Cheryl, and Bobbi Jeen at the upcoming National Finals Rodeo Cowboy Christmas shopping area and remember...Stay wild. For more on Wild Instincts, please visit them on the web at www.wildinstincts.net, visit them on Facebook at facebook.com/wildinstinctsusa, or on Instagram @wildinstincts
Bobbi Jeen Olson for Wild Instincts
All photos are property of Wild Instincts and may not be copied, reproduced, or used without permission. 13
Choosing Outfits on the Road; Bobbie Tryan Talks Packing, Selection, and How To Make It Work
Long periods of time can be tough, especially when your wardrobe can be limited. Fashionista and blogger, Bobbie Tryan talks packing, outfit selection, and how to make the most of your look with limited options.
Bobbie Tryan Photo by Hannah Hogner
Spending long periods of time on the road, visiting a different city or region on a regular basis, and having to pack strategically is something that blogger, fashionista, and rodeo wife Bobbie Tryan is no stranger to. Bobbie travels all over the country with her husband Clay and their three boys, Tyler, Braylon, and Dash. She has always had a love of all things fashion and believes in not letting a little rodeo dirt limit her personal style. _____________ I have always loved fashion and putting together fun styled outfits. Being on the road and living in a horse trailer doesn't stop that! Rodeo season is in full swing which means a lot of packing, driving and dry shampoo! Choosing outfits on the road is mostly fun, but can be slightly challenging. Location, weather, and the vibe of the rodeo are all factors in my outfit choices. Along with the obvious, whatever I have available that's clean!
Bobbie Tryan
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When we are at more casual rodeos, I try to keep it simple and chic. I'll still put thought and effort into what I'm wearing but I try not to overthink it. Again whatever I have clean comes into play. I generally mix different pieces together from my trailer closet, add some great accessories and go. Whether dressing up at the NFR or going casual at slack, it is important to me that my look is complete. A complete outfit to me is everything I'm wearing, from accessories to footwear to clothing is all working together. It can be a casual outfit with simple accessories or a dramatic outfit with over the top accessories they just have to compliment each other and be true to my style. -Bobbie Tryan Bobbie Tryan
Location often plays a large role in helping me choose my footwear, even though I'd rather it not. Pavement, gravel, sand, mud, dirt and dust are all factors in what is going to go on my feet. There are "Christian Louboutin rodeos" (not often though), all the way down to on sale Old Navy flip flop rodeos. So I sometimes have to choose an outfit starting with what I'm wearing on my feet first.
Find Bobbie on Instagram @stylishly.tryan for more!
Major events such as the National Finals Rodeo, The American, Houston, and more, are where I really get to up my fashion game. They are in some ways the Oscars or Met Gala of rodeo fashion. For these particular rodeos I get to have some fun with my style and get creative. Outfits that photograph well and are stylish and unique are high on my list. I love planning ahead and thinking up new looks.
Bobbie Tryan
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Tips and Tricks to Make The Most of Limited Options;
Haley Corkill Shares How She Makes The Most of a Limited Wardrobe On The Road Haley Corkill is no stranger to strategic packing and life on the road. She shares her tips and tricks on how she gets the most out of limited options and light packing while traveling and still looking great.
Haley Corkill Hi! My name is Haley Corkill and I am the mom of two sweet boys, the wife of a rodeo cowboy, and a fashion super fan to say the least. Traveling, fashion and family is a big part of my life and for that, I feel extremely fortunate! ____________
Fashion & travel; not necessarily the easiest combination but, with a few of my favorite tips and tricks, I hope you'll find it easier to not over pack and get the most out of you outfits! For me, traveling with my family for months at a time, leaves us with only so much room for clothes. I am completely guilty of over packing so the last couple of years I've tried extremely hard to buy items of clothes that I can wear over and over but give me the option to style differently that way it doesn't look like the same outfit.
Haley Corkill Photo by Denim N Velvet
When it comes to wearing something more than once, a great example is a solid color fitted dress. You can dress it up with heels or make it casual with flats. You can add a cardigan, kimono, belt, or some jewlery to give it a different look. With these tips, you have now turned one dress into something that can be worn for several different occasions. 17
My favorite thing about a simple canvas is adding small touches of your personality to create your own style. I know that sometimes people have a hard time visualizing an outfit or a look so my advice would be to find someone whose style you can relate to. Put outfits together similar to the look you've seen. Everyone needs outfit inspiration sometimes and there isn't any shame in that. Use that fashion inch to take your outfit the mile!
Haley Corkill
I am looking forward to sharing more tips and tricks to traveling with style so make sure to check out next month’s issue!
Photo Credit: Denim N Velvet
While on the subject of dresses, they are a one item outfit. There isn't much planning with a dress. They don't take up very much room and if I'm being honest, after an all night drive for an 8:00am slack a maxi dress is an easy way to look put together with minimal effort.
-Haley Corkill
Target is one of my favorite places to get cute affordable dresses and fun accessories to give them your own style. I am looking forward to sharing more tips and tricks to traveling with style so make sure to check out next month’s issue!
For more on Haley Corkill, follow her on Instagram @hcorkill
Haley Corkill
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Another Tool in the Arsenal;
Western Atelier’s New Digital Publication By a Blogger, For Bloggers
Brandi Pooley The Western Fashion Industry has blown up with bloggers, boutiques, fashion influencers, and more lately; and I for one, am not mad! I must first pay homage to the original bloggers herself, Brianna Bigbee, The Bleacher Babe. Brianna broke down the walls and set the trail ablaze for the rest of us with similar dreams and visions; for that I must say THANK YOU! There is such a vast array of resources with today’s technology. Everything from Facebook to Instagram to Twitter; our options are limitless to give and receive information. With that, we have the ability to post, comment, “like,” and share. When I was thinking of a way to further help the Western Fashion Industry thrive and grow, the idea came to mind to create a digital magazine by a blogger, for bloggers (and boutiques). This is a great way to feature other bloggers and boutiques in order to put a spotlight on their unique style! Different bloggers from different fashion “genres” can have the opportunity to share their expertise with the rest of us who read a copy!
July Cover of Western Atelier Magazine One of my favorite thing about blogging is the ability to connect with people on a whole different level. I am passionate about small businesses, people’s backstory, and what inspires them. Through blogging, I get to meet and get to know some amazing people. With the magazine, I get to help them tell their story! I had the opportunity to go to a local boutique and interview the owner, Anna Bratcher. I learned about the boutique vibe and style as well as her own personal style. 19
My goal is to go from a 20 page magazine to a 100 page magazine filled with style trends, makeup and hair tips, product reviews, and blogger spotlights! I hope everyone reading this magazine enjoys it, is able to take something from it, and wants to be a part of it! I am looking for bloggers, boutiques, designers, and more to interview and feature for next month’s issue. I am also looking for regular contributors and columnists so if you or someone you know would be interested, please have them get in touch with me! Until next month‌.
Brandi Michelle wearing a long romper from That’s So Fetch Boutique Photo by Pooley Photography
I also had the chance to talk with one half of the dynamic duo of sisters from Wild Instincts Custom Leather. Their story was inspiring and truly amazing. Through that interview, I also gained a new friend; Bobbie Jeen Olson who has mentored me and been an amazing support system! Western Atelier Magazine was also fortunate enough to have Haley Corkill and Bobbie Tryan onboard to discuss some of their tips, tricks, and secrets to traveling and selecting outfits while on the road. I hope to grow the magazine in the coming months ahead and to feature a new blogger or boutique n the cover and as a featured article each month.
To be featured or become a contributor, please contact me at: brandilarsen1@gmail.com or on Facebook at Western Atelier or on Instagram @westernatelier