Social phenomenon': Fashion saddles up to politics at the Calgary Stampede

Fashion is becoming a prominent part of political presence at the Calgary Stampede, where leaders routinely embrace western wear as part of the event’s culture. The article describes the Stampede as a combination of rodeo and runway, emphasizing cowboy hats, belt buckles, denim and boots worn by politicians who attend each year. Designers and historians say the clothing operates as performance and character building for audiences, and the Stampede’s website encourages western attire. It cites Prime Minister Mark Carney, federal Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith as having worn western outfits this year. The piece highlights scrutiny around Poilievre’s speech and the white embroidered shirt and matching cowboy hat he wore, which was mocked online and triggered memes. Experts say the approach can backfire when the message is unclear or the styling feels disconnected, pointing to prior criticism of Justin Trudeau’s trip attire in India and Rachel Notley’s hat being mocked when worn backward.