Clothing fashions have, for essentially the entirety of their histories, been constructed for and evolved through institutions that existed for the purposes of trading goods coupled with the effects of cultural melding. This research explored the deep roots that extend from garment styles solidified in iconic Americana and cowboy nostalgia to locations and cultures across the world. “Inventions” of the American West are often seen as completely original or wholly American. This research explored the idea that, from their conception, aspects of cowboy apparel and garments of the American West can be traced to more than one or two continents, including influences from Europe, Asia and the indigenous inhabitants of both North and South America.

The sources of particular fibers, fabrics, footwear and garments were researched through scholarly explorations of various time periods and geographic locations in order to form a complete picture of the composition of American Western fashion. The findings of this study can assist in developing a proper recognition of the cultural connectivity and global nature that have always been defining features of fashion and costume. This should in effect encourage a positive outlook concerning ways in which fashion reflects differing cultures and the interactions of humans to which they belong.