Cowboy shopping

Southern Living, Sep 2002

Dude! This historic section of Oklahoma City offers some of the best Western wear around.

You don't have to be a cowpoke to enter Stockyards City, but you might look like one when you leave. This historic section of Oklahoma City, just off I-40, is full of Old West ambience. It's home to one of the world's largest cattle markets, but we are most impressed by its Western wear shops. Our favorites are all friendly, family owned, and ready to outfit you from head to toe.

The Hat

Lavonna "Shorty" Koger can take one look at you and tell what kind of hat you need. The only independent female hatter in the country, she's been working with hats for more than 30 years. Shorty's Caboy Hattery offers limitless styles of custom-made hats crafted from the finest beaver felts, starting at $250. Also, if your topper needs a tune--up, Shorty's does hat restoration. 1206 South Agnew; (405) 232-4287.

The Shirt and Pants

You'll find racks of Wrangler jeans and shirts at Langston's. They've been in business since 1913 (it's the state's oldest Western-wear shop), and it shows by their quality inventory. 2224 Exchange Avenue; (405) 235-9536 or www langstons.com.

The Boots

Joe Bass, the owner of Little Joe's Boots, may not be the biggest man you'll ever meet, but he's probably one of the nicest-and he knows his boots. He takes at least 12 measurements on each foot to ensure a perfect fit, so scan the shelves for any color and style. He'll smile through his bushy mustache if you request a pair in purple sharkskin, but he'll do his best to find them for you. 2219 Exchange Avenue; (405) 236-2650.

The Saddle

Unless you're in the market, a saddle shop ain't exactly the kind of place you just walk into. You'll miss a real treat, though, if you pass the National Saddlery Company. John Rule has been making saddles for almost 25 years. Most range from $2,000 to $5,000, but ask him about the jewel-encrusted saddle he once made that was worth $30,000. If you're nice, he might even show you his latest project. 1307 South Agnew; (405) 239-2104.

NEED SOME CHOW?

After you've shopped up an appetite, grab a bite at Cattlemen's Steakhouse. They've been serving lamb fries and thick, juicy steaks since 1910. 1309 South Agnew; (405) 236-0416 or www.cattlemens restaurant.com.