Nashville Style: How to Dress Like a Local

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When I tell people I’m from Nashville and I’m out of state, they often ask where my cowboy boots and hat are. As a native, I never really hit Broadway until I was in my twenties and I don’t own any cowboy boots, well normal ones anyway. I don’t even own a cowboy hat! 

The Nashville fashion look has evolved from cowboy to a hipster/Americana vibe. The Nashville look is very distinct and once you get the hang of it, you’ll have so much fun with the style. If you’re looking for Nashville fashion, whether you just moved here or visiting for a few days, I’m going to share 5 items you need to be a modern-day Nashville local.

Nashville Style: 5 Items to Make You a Local

Big Hat

It may not be a traditional cowboy hat but it’s close and more modern! Lack of Color is one of my favorite hat brands because their hats are so structured. Hats like this are very big with locals and fedora-type hats go with everything in our closets. The easy way to wear a big felt hat is to go with a neutral color like black and tan. It’s a step in the right direction since it’ll go with everything you bring to Nashville. 

Booties

Ditch the cowboy boots for some booties. These leather boots I’m wearing are my go-to’s along with some wedges. I don’t know about you but cowboy boots can be a little uncomfortable so comfy booties are a must if you’re walking around in the Gulch or 12 South. Booties are good to pack to wear with everything you might bring with you; midi skirt, a little black dress, skinny jeans, straight leg jeans, ankle cut jeans you name it!

If you do wear cowboy boots, I have a full post on how to style cowboy boots here. Some might say black cowboy boots are the way to go in the western boots department since they’re so versatile, but I prefer my cowboy boots metallic and fun! They’re not work boots so wearing cowboy boots can be whatever you want it to be. 

Statement Jewelry

Nashvillians love their jewelry from turquoise to draw-dropping earrings. We also believe in having a ring for every finger. I’m a huge hoop girl, I usually wear them with every outfit! Western-style jewelry is really big right now and you can find a lot of styles like that in our local shops. 

Layer On the Denim

So get some denim and put more denim on that. Especially a denim jacket! When in doubt, always add more denim. You get extra cool points if your denim jacket has patches and embroidery. If double denim is too much for you, layer with gingham or a tunic with bell sleeves. There’s no right way to wear denim so feel free to do it up! 

Sequins

Like country stars, locals love their sequins and incorporate them in any way they can. I incorporated my sequin in this Anna Sui tunic. Paired with my hat, belt, and booties and I’m ready to hit any stage in Nashville! You’ll also have everyone so impressed with your Nashville street style and will get asked over and over again where your outfit is from. 

Add all of these things and you’re dressing like a local! When you walk by in these pieces, be prepared for everyone to be surprised when you say you’re new or visiting.

What do you associate with Nashville style? Share with me in a comment below!

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