CALLIE MUELLER
VALENTINE GIFTS
MATCHMAKING HORSE AND RIDER
FASHION
Owner: Dava Rabb
Photography
On the Cover: Callie Mueller MRA Queen 2025
Photo by: Sherry Smith
A Cowgirl’s Voice...
Editor-in-Chief, Susan Gentry
This edition celebrates winter fashion and the joy of Valentine’s Day! I’m thrilled about this issue as it marks the beginning of a new year filled with fresh ideas, new aspirations, and a clean slate. What a fantastic way to ignite enthusiasm for life!
I’m particularly excited to showcase our new Miss Rodeo America 2025, Callie Mueller, in this issue. Callie, who previously held the title of Miss Rodeo South Dakota, has been a delight to learn about.
We’re embracing the ‘Cheetah Wave’ with American Darling handbags! The abundance of cheetah print is truly a sight to behold!
If you’re on the hunt for Valentine’s gift ideas, we’ve included several suggestions in this issue and provided a link to our comprehensive Valentine Gift Guide. Discover the ideal present.
Wishing everyone a year brimming with health, joy, and new adventures. Thank you for your continued support of Cowgirls In Style Magazine!
Susie Susan Gentry Editor-In-Chief
MAKE UP TRENDS FOR 2025
FROM EYES TO LIPS, BOLD IS BETTER
BOLD EYES:
When it comes to makeup in 2025, more is more. “From a bold liner to a smoky eye, making a statement is back on the table with no negotiations,” says celebrity makeup artist Clarissa Luna
Perfect Eye Palette: Perfect Eye™ Palette with seven matte, highlighting, and liner shades built to take you from natural everyday to dramatic evening looks - now in an assortment of cool tones and talc-free! thrivecausemetics.com
LIPS
amazon.com
Devanie Gentry Fashion Editor
P LANNING FOR THE NEW YEAR
10 IDEAS TO HELP YOU PLAN FOR A PRODUCTIVE YEAR
As we are a few weeks into the new year, it’s the perfect time to set goals and get organized. Planning for the new year can help you stay focused and achieve your objectives. Here are 10 ideas to help you plan and stay organized in the coming year.
1. SET CLEAR GOALS
Start by setting specific and realistic goals for the new year. Whether it’s improving your grades, getting in shape, or learning a new skill, having clear objectives will give you a sense of direction.
2. USE A PLANNER OR DIGITAL CALENDAR
Having a planner or using a digital calendar can help you stay on top of your deadlines, appointments, and tasks. Schedule important dates and set reminders to keep yourself organized throughout the year.
3. CREATE TO-DO LISTS
Break down your goals into smaller tasks and create
daily or weekly to-do lists. This will help you stay focused and ensure that you’re making progress towards your bigger objectives.
4. DECLUTTER YOUR SPACE
A clutter-free environment can contribute to a clear and focused mind. Take some time to declutter your living and study spaces to start the new year with a clean slate.
5. TIME MANAGEMENT
Learn how to manage your time effectively. Identify your most productive hours and allocate time for specific tasks. This will help you make the most of your day and avoid last-minute rushes.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
Don’t forget to prioritize self-care in your planning. Make time for activities such as horseback riding, exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. that help you relax and recharge.
7. BUDGET YOUR FINANCES
If managing your finances better is on your list of goals, creating a budget can help you stay organized and in control of your money. Track your expenses and set aside savings for the future.
8. EMBRACE AUTOMATION
Use technology to your advantage by automating repetitive tasks. Whether it’s setting up automatic bill payments or using productivity apps, automation can save you time and keep you organized.
9. REGULAR REVIEW AND ADJUSTMENTS
Schedule regular reviews of your progress and make adjustments to your plans if necessary. This will help you stay on track and make improvements as you go along.
10. STAY FLEXIBLE
While it’s important to have a plan, it’s equally important to remain flexible. Life can be unpredictable, so being adaptable and open to change will help you navigate any unexpected challenges that may arise.
By incorporating these ideas into your planning for the new year, you’ll set yourself up for a more organized and successful year ahead.
Find the special section that you need for your planner and you can either download them below or order the already printed pages!
If you order the already printed pages, you can also include the pdf option so that you never run out of pages and never have to buy another planner again! A very affordable and comprehensive way to get organized!
Matchmaking The Perfect Horse With Its Rider:
By Susan Gentry
A Valentine’s Day Love Story For A Cowgirl And Her Horse
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate love in all its forms, including the special bond between a rider and their horse. Like any great love story, the connection between a rider and their horse is built on mutual trust, respect, and understanding. But how do you find the “one” in the world of equestrian matchmaking? Let’s explore the art of pairing a horse with its perfect rider, with a little extra romance for the season.
THE HEART OF THE MATCH: UNDERSTANDING BOTH HEARTS
In any relationship, the foundation of love is knowing each other deeply, and this holds true for the rider-horse connection. Horses are incredibly intuitive creatures, able to sense a rider’s emotions and respond in kind. A nervous rider might meet a skittish horse, while a confident rider could foster an unshak-
able bond with a bold steed. It’s essential to match personalities and temperaments so that both rider and horse feel comfortable and safe together. The Rider’s Personality: Some riders have a natural calmness, perfect for gentle horses who thrive in a relaxed environment. Others may be more energetic or competitive, looking for a horse that shares their zest for life. Matching the rider’s energy with the horse’s spirit ensures harmony, as both will be more likely to respond to each other’s cues with ease.
The Horse’s Disposition: Horses, like people, have distinct personalities. Some are brave and bold, loving challenges and thrills, while others are calm, gentle, and laid-back. Understanding these characteristics is key to a successful partnership. For example, a competitive rider may seek an ambitious, spirited horse for jumping competitions, while a beginner rider may do better with a patient, steady mount.
When Cupid aims his bow at the world of horses and riders, he doesn’t just strike randomly. There are certain traits that make a rider and horse pairings ideal for one another:
1. Trust: The essence of any great love story is trust. A rider must trust their horse to listen and obey, and likewise, the horse must trust the rider to keep them safe. Building this trust is an ongoing process, but it can lead to a bond that is unbreakable—one where both can anticipate the other’s next move without hesitation.
2. Communication: Horses and riders speak different languages, but effective communication is the glue that holds a relationship together. Just like in any romantic partnership, clear and consistent signals (whether verbal, visual, or through body language) create a seamless connection. A rider’s voice and body movements convey intentions, while the horse responds with its own signals, from its ears to its gait.
3. Shared Goals: Every couple has shared dreams, and so should the rider-horse pair. Whether it’s a goal to compete in dressage, enjoy peaceful trail rides, or just spend quality time together in the arena, having aligned aspirations makes for a more fulfilling relationship. Working toward common goals allows both rider and horse to grow together, deepening their connection.
THE MATCHMAKING PROCESS: FINDING TRUE LOVE
Just as finding true love takes time, pairing a rider with the right horse requires careful consideration. When matchmaking, it’s important to keep the following factors in mind:
Experience Level: Just as you wouldn’t pair a seasoned lover with someone who is new to relationships, you shouldn’t match a novice rider with a highly advanced horse. Novices need steady, patient horses who can guide them through their learning journey. On the other hand, experienced riders might look for more challenging and responsive horses to push their skills further.
Size and Strength: This practical consideration is often overlooked in matters of the heart, but it’s just as important. A rider must be physically compatible with their horse. If a rider is too small for their horse or lacks the strength to control them, the relationship could be strained. Similarly, a larger, stronger horse may need a rider who is capable of handling their power.
Compatibility and Chemistry: Every horse has their quirks and every rider has their preferences. Some riders may love a horse with a smooth canter, while others may enjoy the bouncy, energetic gait of a more spirited mount. Compatibility can be found in the subtle details—the way a horse’s temperament matches a rider’s demeanor, or the way the rider’s confidence boosts the horse’s spirit.
THE ROMANCE OF THE RIDE
On Valentine’s Day, imagine taking your perfect partner on a romantic trail ride under the sunset, the world around you glowing with a warm, golden hue. The rhythmic sound of hooves becomes the beat of your hearts in unison, and every moment shared in the saddle strengthens the bond between you and
your beloved horse.
Whether you’re trotting through a meadow or galloping across an open field, the joy of riding together is a form of deep connection, one that transcends words. As with any great love story, this connection is built on patience, understanding, and the thrill of discovery. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of your heart beating alongside the heartbeat of your horse.
CONCLUSION: A LOVE THAT GROWS
As Valentine’s Day reminds us, true love is about more than just passion—it’s about care, commitment, and growth. The perfect pairing between a rider and their horse is a partnership that evolves over time. With trust, patience, and a little bit of Cupid’s magic, the relationship between a rider and their horse can last a lifetime, one trail ride at a time.
So this Valentine’s Day, whether you’re already in love with your horse or still searching for your perfect match, remember that the right connection is out there, waiting to bloom. Happy riding!
WHAT’S IN OUR BAG
100% genuine full grain leather
Hand-stained and hand-tooled
Zipper closure
100% cotton lining with 1 interior zipper pocket and 2 interior open pouches
Adjustable shoulder strap 12-15” drop
Dimensions: 13 x 7 x 4”
Each handbag includes a protective storage bag.
Hand tooling, hand lacing, flower appliques, Western yoke patterns, and striking silver hardware blend beautifully in a symphony of colors and textures to create the Desert Wildflower Collection. Made to match any casual element in your wardrobe, this collection is sure to be an everyday favorite. Each handbag is tooled front and back, and features a cotton lining, an interior zip pocket, interior accessory pouches.
AMERICAN WEST
Desert Wildflower Zip-Top Shoulder Bag
Inside the Desert Wildflower Zip-Top Bag has two inside pockets on each side to organize your essentials. A place for your phone, accessory pouches and zip pocket. Room for all of your www.americanwest.cc
CALLIE MUELLER
Miss Rodeo America 2025
Photo: Sherry Smith Photography
CIS Q’s & A’s
By: Susan Gentry
Cowgirls In Style: Where are you from?
Callie Mueller: I am from the small town of Florence, South Dakota
CIS: Tell us about your growing up. Did you start with horses at a young age?
C.M.: I have always been passionate about horses! I participated in my first horse show at the age of five. Throughout my childhood, I was deeply involved in 4-H, showcasing horses in various events, including local saddle club shows and competitions with the Pony of America’s organization at local, state, and national levels. My involvement in 4-H spanned many areas, with my favorites being photography, baking, public speaking, radio presentations, fashion revue, dairy, swine, and, of course, the horse program! During my teenage years, I became actively engaged in FFA at my high school. Naturally, I immersed myself in all things equine! My Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project focused on train - ing horses, while my Leadership Develop Event (LDE) centered on em ployment leadership. My ag ri-science projects explored horse training through body language and exam ined the relationship be tween a horse’s coat color and their temperament. Additionally, I partici pated in Career Devel opment Events (CDE) related to horse evalu ation. I competed at both state and national levels in agri-science projects and horse evaluation, achieving 5th overall as an individual horse judge at the 2017 National FFA Horse Evaluation.
Practice like you’ve never won. Perform like you’ve never lost.
- Bernard F. Asuncion
Callie Mueller MRA Queen 2024
Photos: Sherry Smith Photography
5 Year Old Callie
CIS Q’s & A’s
My experiences in 4-H and FFA provided me with numerous leadership opportunities, personal growth, and a solid foundation for my future role as Miss Rodeo America 2025.
CIS: When did you start your journey in rodeo royalty?
C.M: I began my journey as a rodeo queen during my college years. When I came across an opportunity to represent the South Dakota State University rodeo team, I eagerly seized it! Having just transitioned out of 4-H and FFA, I felt a strong desire to contribute to something I am truly passionate about—the Western industry and the sport of rodeo. I was privileged to hold several rodeo queen titles, including the 2019 Jackrabbit Stampede Ambassador, 2020 Miss Black Hills Roundup, 2021 Miss Corn Palace Stampede, 2022 Miss Days of ‘76, and 2023 Miss Watertown Rodeo, all of which culminated in my selection as the 2024 Miss Rodeo South Dakota.
CIS: What are some of your hobbies when you get some down time?
C.M: I have not had much downtime lately, but when I do I enjoy spending it with my animals. I have four horses, four barn cats, and my “rodeo-queen puppy,” Zoey! Other activities I like to do include going on walks, trail riding, and reading.
CIS: What was your favorite part of your week in Vegas competing for Miss Rodeo America?
C.M: I truly enjoyed every moment of the contest, but the fashion show stood out as one of my top highlights. It combined three of my passions: music, dancing, and
Below: Callie and Zoey, the rodeo queen puppy
fashion! I had a blast putting together outfits from Wrangler and Double D Ranch, and I was thrilled to showcase my unique, fashion-forward look inspired by the shimmering snow of South Dakota!
CIS: What were some challenges, if any?
C.M: One of the most significant challenges I faced was losing a close friend to cancer during my senior year of high school. We had been best friends since childhood, sharing countless experiences in school, 4-H, FFA, and equestrian activities. Throughout her fight against cancer, she lived by the motto “Faith over Fear.” After her passing, I found myself struggling deeply. It became clear to me that I needed to embrace that same motto in my own life. Since then, it has shaped my daily perspective. As Miss Rodeo South Dakota 2024, I authored a book titled “Faith over Fear,” where I share my journey
and aim to inspire others to adopt this powerful mindset in their own lives.
Above: Callie and her friend Evie
Left: Book Callie wrote as Miss Rodeo South Dakota 2024 to encourage and inspire
Photo: Sherry Smith Photography
Photo: Sherry Smith Photography
CIS: What is your fashion sense? Are you a jeans/boots type of girl or more dress up?
C.M.: I love everything about fashion! I appreciate casual jeans and boots, but I favor dressing up and styling a classy high-fashion cowgirl look!
CIS: What advice would you tell a girl who is looking to get involved in Rodeo pageantry?
“Practice like you’ve never won. Perform like you’ve never lost.”
-Bernard F. Asuncion.
C.M: My advice is to work hard towards your goal and put faith over fear. Have faith that God will direct you to the path He has planned for you. Have faith in yourself to compete to
the best of your ability, and leave the fear of failure behind you. A saying I like to remind myself of when I am working towards a goal is to:
“Practice like you’ve never won. Perform like you’ve never lost.” - Bernard F. Asuncion.
*You can find more about Callie and the Miss Rodeo America Pageant on their website at: www.missrodeoamerica.com
You can also follow Callie’s travels this year on their Facebook and Instagram account. @missrodeoamericaofficial
Photo: Courtesy Emma Cameron
Photo: Sherry Smith Photography
CATCH THE CHEETAH WAVE WITH
Retail - americandarling.com
Wholesale - americandarlingbag.com
Cheetah print has again taken the fashion world by storm. In 2025, it blends style and wild elegance. Not only do these bags and accessories stand out, but they also express personal flair. American Darling deliver high-quality, handmade Western products to their patrons at affordable prices. Let’s explore some of the many Cheetah print options from American Darling ...
CELLPHONE HOLDER GENUINE WESTERN LEATHER WOMEN BAG BETSY
High quality Genuine Full Grain Leather. Adjustable genuine leather shoulder strap.
7in (H) X 4.5in (W) X 2in (D) americandarling.com
HOBO GENUINE WESTERN LEATHER WOMEN BAG BETSY
The handpicked Cheetah print cowhide hairon genuine leather is gorgeous. The shoulder strap is adjustable and made of 100% genuine vegetable tanned Cowhide
Leather with a hand tooled pattern. 14in (H) X 17in (W) X 5in (D) americandarling.com
American Darling
TOTE GENUINE WESTERN LEATHER WOMEN BAG
High quality Genuine Full Grain Leather. Handpicked Cheetah print cowhide hairon genuine leather with beautiful leather fringes giving it a western look
Adjustable genuine leather shoulder strap.
14in (H) X 18in (W) X 5in (D) americandarling.com
MESSENGER GENUINE WESTERN LEATHER WOMEN BAG
Genuine YKK brand known for long lasting and durable zipper closures ensure security of your essentials. Adjustable genuine leather shoulder strap.
14in (H) X 12in (W) americandarling.com
CROSSBODY GENUINE WESTERN
LEATHER WOMEN BAG BECCA
High quality Genuine Full Grain Leather. Handpicked Cheetah print cowhide hairon genuine leather with beautiful leather fringes giving it a western look
Adjustable genuine leather shoulder strap.
4.5in (H) X 8in (W) americandarling.com
ENVELOPE GENUINE WESTERN
LEATHER WOMEN BAG
Decorated with beautiful leather fringes giving it a western look. Adjustable genuine leather shoulder strap. 8in (H) X 11in (W) americandarling.com
American Darling
ENVELOPE GENUINE
WOMEN COIN PURSE High quality Genuine Full Grain Leather. 5in (H) X 3in (W) americandarling.com
HAIR ON
WESTERN LEATHER WOMEN BAG Genuine YKK brand known for long lasting and durable zipper closures ensure security of your essentials. Beautiful, detailed Leather Braiding. 5in (H) X 9in (W) X 1.5in (D) americandarling.com
DUFFELS AND WEEKENDERS
DUFFEL GENUINE WESTERN LEATHER WOMEN BAG BECCA
The handpicked cowhide hair-on genuine leather on this travel bag not only adds a soft and tactile element but also serves as an embellishment, enhancing its overall western appearance. 15in (H) X 20in (W) X 9in (D) americandarling.com
DUFFEL GENUINE WESTERN LEATHER WOMEN BAG
High quality Genuine Full Grain Leather. Soft and supple leather that ages beautifully as it wears. 17.5in (H) X 17.5in (W) X 7in (D) americandarling.com
JEWELRY CASE GENUINE WESTERN
LEATHER WOMEN BAG
Genuine YKK brand known for long lasting and durable zipper closures ensure security of your essentials 10.5in (H) X 11.5in (W) americandarling.com
JEWELRY CASES
JEWELRY CASE GENUINE WESTERN
LEATHER WOMEN BAG
Genuine YKK brand known for long lasting and durable zipper closures Highly durable solid Antique finish metal fittings.Perfect for travel 7in (H) X 12in (W) americandarling.com
Warm Fashions for Winter Riding
STAYING COZY WHILE STYLISH
Winter horseback riding can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with the challenge of staying warm while maintaining mobility and comfort in the saddle. As temperatures drop, it’s important for riders to invest in layers, insulated gear, and accessories that protect from the cold without sacrificing style. Here’s a guide to winter fashion for horseback riding that ensures you stay both cozy and fashionable during your cold-weather adventures.
The Foundation of Warmth starts out with keeping your core warm and is why it is important to have under garments such as tights or thermal underwear.
These Eos Knee Patch Tight from Ariat are the perfect answer.
ariat.com
MID-LAYER OPTIONS:
Fleece Jackets: Fleece is a lightweight, breathable material that traps heat effectively.
eroper.com
Down Jackets or Vests: For extra warmth, opt for a down jacket or vest, which offers excellent insulation without feeling bulky. eroper.com
OUTERWEAR OPTIONS:
Outerwear:
Protection Against Wind and Snow
The outer layer is your defense against the elements, keeping you dry and shielded from wind, rain, and snow. Waterproof, windproof jackets and pants designed specifically for horseback riding are essential to maintaining comfort on winter rides. Look for jackets with a longer hemline that provides protection from the cold without restricting movement while riding.
Roper OuterwearWomen’s Lt Weight Parachute Nylon Puffer Jacket * Down Filled * eroper.com
EQUESTRIAN GLOVES
Keeping Your Hands Warm
Riding gloves are a must for winter horseback riding, not only to protect your hands from the cold but also to ensure you maintain a good grip on the reins. Choose gloves that provide warmth without compromising your dexterity. Wool or fleece-lined gloves with waterproof exteriors are ideal for winter riding.
TEK Grip Glove ariat.com
Classic Equine Winter Barn Glove teskys.com
HEAD GEAR| STAY WARM FROM HEAD TO TOE
The head is where much of the body’s heat is lost, so keeping your head and ears covered is crucial in cold weather. A cozy, insulated hat or a thermal helmet liner will help keep you warm during your ride. Be sure that any headgear you wear is compatible with your riding helmet for safety.
Headgear Options:
Winter Riding Helmets: Some equestrian helmets come with a removable fleece liner, which adds warmth while still providing protection.
Ear Warmers or Headbands: If you don’t want to wear a full hat, an ear warmer or headband under your helmet can keep you warm without affecting your comfort or safety.
VALENTINE ACCESSORIES
Every Cowgirl Will Love
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to add a little extra leather, flair, and romance to your cowgirl wardrobe. Whether you’re celebrating with your sweetheart, your kids, your gal pals, or your trusty steed, these accessories bring Western charm with a touch of love to your style. From stunning jewelry to custom tack, here’s how to make your Valentine’s Day outfit—and your horse—shine.
American Darling Braided Genuine Leather Jewelry Necklace with Concho | Handmade Necklaces Timeless Jewelry Piece for a Stylish and Personalized Look americandarlingbag.com
American Darling Braided Full Grain Leather Jewelry Necklace with Concho | Handmade Necklaces Timeless Jewelry Piece for a Stylish and Personalized Look americandarlingbag.com
WRAP UP IN ROMANTIC SCARVES
A scarf is the easiest way to add a touch of Valentine’s Day flair to your outfit without sacrificing practicality.
Red and Pink Scarves: Opt for traditional Western patterns in bold Valentine’s Day colors. These bandanas are perfect for keeping warm and looking stylish on the ranch or during a casual date.
Silk Scarves with Floral Patterns: For a more luxurious feel, choose a silk scarf with soft florals in reds, pinks, and whites. Knot it around your neck or tie it to your hat for an elegant touch.
ANDANTINO 100% Mulberry Silk Scarf -21” Lightweight Square Neckerchief amazon.com
Lightweight Satin Scarves - Pink Ribbon Scarf for Women amazon.com
CUSTOM TACK WITH A ROMANTIC FLAIR
Your horse deserves to feel the love too! This Valentine’s Day, dress up your tack with beautiful custom accents.
Argentina Cow Western Leather Headstall and Breast Collar Tack Set - Pink Heart Patch with Rhinestone Concho - Perfect Valentine’s Gift for Horse Lovers amazon.com
Argentina Cow Leather Western Headstall and Breast Collar Set for Horse, Pink Heart Print, Antique Nickel Hardware amazon.com
SMALL TOUCHES BIG IMPACT FOR KIDS
KID’S SMALL CROSSBODY/CLUTCH WITH DETACHABLE STRAP
Hand stained genuine leather is accented with leather fringe. One main compartment with a slip pocket on the inside. Each handbag features a cotton lining and also includes a protective storage bag.
7 x 5.5 x 2”
Shoulder strap drop: 13” americanwest.cc
KID’S CROSSBODY FLAP BAG
From toddlers to the young at heart, this bag will bring the fun. A flap with a spring snap closure allows for easy access and security. Hand stained genuine leather is accented with leather fringe.
7 x 6 x 2”
Shoulder strap drop: 13” americanwest.cc
Black Star Boots
www.backstarboots.com with
JESSIE
The Jessie is the perfect modern boot for a modern cowgirl. This boot features a flattering 15” shaft height, 1.75” western heel, and a snip toe for a sleek finish. The ultra-modern CellSole® cushioned footbed and soft leather lining provide cloud-like comfort for all day wear. The sharp stitch pattern adds the perfect touch of flair and elevates any cowgirl’s outfit. The Jessie boot is a musthave for our next concert or night out dancing. blackstarboots.com
HARPER
Command attention in the stunning sapphire Harper boot. This 15” shaft, full grain leather boot features a 1.75” western heel, 8-row stitch pattern, and classic snip toe with unparallelled CellSole® footbed provides cloud-like comfort for day and night. The rich blue hue captures imagination with its blend of royalty and elegance. blackstarboots.com
VICTORIA
Every cowgirl needs a pair of classic cowgirl boots in her closet, and you can’t go wrong with the Victoria. This boot features a flattering 15” shaft height, 1.75” western heel, and a snip toe for a sleek finish. The ultra-modern CellSole® cushioned footbed and soft leather lining provide cloud-like comfort for all day wear. Whether you’re heading to a concert, rodeo, or dinner with friends, the Victoria boot is sure to be a wardrobe staple. blackstarboots.com
ADDISON
The Addison boot is a perfect choice for those who keep their style simple, yet significant. This leather suede boot features a 15” shaft height, 1.75” western heel, and a snip toe to complete the sleek design. Never worry about sacrificing comfort for style thanks to our ultramodern CellSole® footbed that provides cloud-like comfort for all day wear. The Addison is a versatile addition to any cowgirl’s collection.
