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We wear jewelry to feel good, to enhance our own beauty and take pride in our appearance. Jewelry is a wonderful way to express yourself, who you are, and what you like. Western style jewelry speaks to the cowgirl in each of us, showing off our pride in the West with traditional elements, materials and symbols. One symbol that can readily be found in many types of western jewelry is the feather. Feathers may be delicate, but they speak volumes.

The feather has many symbolic meanings attached to it. Native American tribes and other indigenous people around the world connect the feather with the wind, powerful energy, such as thunder, and wisdom. As birds fly high in the sky, they are closer to the sun, stars and cosmos beyond. In many Native cultures, birds are messengers of the spirit world, bringing lessons and wisdom to those who receive them. The feather as a sacred symbol for many Native Americans ultimately represents trust, honor, strength, wisdom, power and freedom.

When it comes to fashion trends, feathers have been popular throughout various times in history, and probably even before then. Native American ceremonial headdresses, were worn only by men and at special occasions. Feathers reached

their peak in popularity with the high-fashion feathered hats of the 18^th and 19^th Centuries. Unfortunately, exotic feathers were often sought after during this time, which led to the decline of many beautiful birds around the world. The practice of using real feathers from birds declined itself with the modern age. Today we have synthetic feathers such as can be found in the feather boa of today’s entertainers. There are better supply practices in place, with feathers being sustainably harvested from more common birds, such as roosters. Feathers have been used make a bold statement in a beautiful way.

In current western style fashions, feathers are still a popular element and can be found in a variety of pieces. Feathered earrings and necklaces can add a bit of whimsical fun to an outfit, and make for a wonderful conversation piece. Feathers can also add a bit of romance to your mood. The soft flow of feathers dangling from filigree earrings can feel like the wind gently whispering by. But a feather need not be a real one from a bird. Antiqued gold or silver feathers provide beautiful details, as a delicate accent, or as a bold centerpiece. At the office, they can bring a bit of flair, and at a party or big event, they can highlight a new dress or stunning outfit.

Feathers make a bold and beautiful statement, and are a great way to show off your Western style. I invite you to check out our products at West Coast Cowgirl, where you can find a variety of items with a feathered centerpiece or accents at our website. Whether you are looking for a gift for that special someone or you are ready to treat yourself to something new, products are added regularly so be sure to check back often.

The  American West and horses go hand in hand. As an icon of independence and beauty, the horse has long had a place in western style jewelry as well. As the world has become more globally connected, so too have various fashion styles, including those with an equestrian flair. Today, western style jewelry has become popular with people sharing a wide range of tastes.  The horse lends itself to a variety of jewelry options from showy and glitzy, to simple and alluring, and everything in between. As an accessory theme, all things equine related can make stunning statements to enhance your personal style.

There is more to horse inspired jewelry than stallions in profile and bejeweled spurs. Today’s western style includes other accessories as well, including handbags, such as the Blazing Pony Handbag which you can find on our website. This new addition to our product line offers a stylish and unique way to step out on the town with purse in tow. The shape and way these handbags drape easily across your body are reminiscent of the mailbags used by the Pony Express.

Horse lovers can express their passion with the simple design of the Wild Hearts Sterling Silver necklace. Taking inspiration from heart silhouette pendants with a bit of bling, this necklace features a unique heart formed from a mare and foal with their heads touching. The cubic zirconia accents make this a sparkling piece perfect for dressing up or any casual day.

No western style wardrobe would be complete without at least one glittering horseshoe.
Legend has it that an up turned horseshoe on a door can keep evil spirits, or bad luck at bay. The traditional use of 7 nails to hold a shoe in place is also considered lucky. You can carry your own bit of luck with a glittering horseshoe of your own, besides horseshoe jewelry is hard to resist! West Coast Cowgirl has Lucky’s Chance Bracelets which feature a crystal horseshoe on a sterling silver chain. You can enhance your horseshoe collection with our Rhiannon Earrings, dangling horseshoe post earrings, as well.

Whether you ride a horse or not, every cowgirl needs the right hat. If you are as inspired by horses as we are, you will want one which speaks to your horse sense with finesse. Our Coco Lady Felt hat is made to embrace the equestrian within. Available in midnight, claret and saddle shades, this hat’s classic lines and finer details evoke horses and beautiful sunsets.

I invite you to check out our products at West Coast Cowgirl, where you will find a wide variety of jewelry options, including pieces inspired by the iconic horse of the American West. Whether you are looking for a gift for that special someone or you’re ready to treat yourself to something new, we have new products added regularly so be sure to check back often.