Get Western! Where to Buy Western Wear in Montana’s Yellowstone Country
Western wear has come a long way. What started as practical, “get the job done” clothing now has its own place in the fashion world, mixing time-honored styles with modern trends. Felt hats are all the rage, flannel shirts commonplace, and the day we saw young hipsters wearing wranglers, we knew it was more than just a trend. Vintage snap-down shirts, wool shawls, jackets, anything Carhartt, and cowboy boots are now as fashionable as they are functional.
We’ve compiled a list of some local favorites, but you’ll find a bit of Western influence in many shops around the region.
Eagle’s Store, West Yellowstone
This pioneer family-founded business started in 1908, with a new building constructed between 1927-1930, which is now on the National Register of Historic Places. From Stetson and Serratelli cowboy hats to packable Bailey’s or straw shady Brady’s, their cowboy hat selection is spot on. In addition, they carry Tony Lama, Acme, and other cowboy boots, along with Minnetonka moccasins, sized infant to adult, and western belts. Plus, they have an old-fashioned soda fountain, making it a family favorite shopping stop.
Montana Supply Company, Big Sky
While not exclusively a western wear store, Montana Supply Company carries a quality assortment of clothing, jackets and vests, boots, accessories, outdoor gear, tools, and camping supplies. Their selection includes trusted brands like Filson, Levis, and Red Wing Shoes, plus a vast selection of quality brands that don’t fall into the mainstream.
Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply, Belgrade, Bozeman, Four Corners, and Livingston
With four locations across Montana’s Yellowstone Country, Murdoch’s is the go-to for ranch wear. Their clothing selection is as robust as their ranch and home supplies and includes everything from work clothes to dresses and accessories. Brands include Ariat, Carhartt, KÜHL, Montana Silversmiths, Noble Outfitters, and Wrangler.
Babione’s Wilson Boots Emporium, Livingston
This longstanding business was started in 1945 by Carl Wilson, a saddle maker in Miles City who figured if he could build a saddle to fit, why not build a boot everyone could afford? His musings have led to one of the most respected boot brands in the U.S. (And a bit of trivia for all you boot lovers out there, the spur shelf on cowboy boots was first introduced by Wilson.) The store has been passed down a couple of times, but it remains family-owned, and its handmade boots are still impeccable.
Carter’s Boots and Repair, Bozeman
What began in 1994 as a small boot and shoe repair shop is now nationally recognized as an authority on boots. In addition to their handmade leather boots, they carry fourteen other brands of western, hiking, hunting, work, and Pac boots, along with used western boots and leather accessories. Check out their new location at 1662 Bobcat Drive, off Huffine Lane.
Head West, Bozeman
Located in downtown Bozeman, this popular store features hats, boots, accessories, and a new curated vintage collection, “Johnny + June.” In addition to clothes, they carry blankets and other home items, plus jewelry and accessories. Brands include famous names such as Pendleton and Stetson, along with many high-quality boutique lines you won’t find just anywhere.
Boot Barn, Bozeman
True to their name, you will find a vast selection of boots, but that’s not all Boot Barn carries. Their inventory includes over thirty brands of workwear, outerwear, jeans, and a beautiful line of Western fashion from Wonderwest.
Bob’s Outdoor, Livingston
Another long-time trusted retailer, Bob’s, began in 1946, catering to ranchers, Burlington Northern railroaders, and the local community. A Filson dealer for at least 35 years, they also carry trusted names like Pendleton and Woolrich with a variety of vests, shirts, bags, gloves, belts, hats, coats, and wallets. The second-generation, Montana family-owned store and the building is on the National Historic Register.
Cofer Hat Company, Livingston
This husband-and-wife duo has built a following with their handmade western hats using high-quality beaver felts, which they turn into heirloom pieces. Pre-made or custom hats are available in felt, along with pre-made palm leaf and straw hats, western accessories, and, coming soon, a collection of other Montana artists.
Yellowstone Hat Company, Livingston
These one-of-a-kind, handmade hats all have vintage parts and components that add character to the designs. So, whether you’re looking for clean and crisp or a little weathered, you’ll find a variety of styles for every occasion. Shop by their collection or consult on a custom design by appointment.
Kellem’s Montana Saddlery, Gardiner
This working saddle shop also carries a selection of unique clothing, including hats, belts, gloves, purses, scarves, jewelry, buckles, and gifts. And for the horse people out there, in addition to saddles, they make tack, chaps, chinks, leather care, and horse care items.