Gear up for Hoedown

Get new digs for the country music festival

By Erin Branstner

Special to Metromix
May 9, 2008

Gear up for Hoedown

Country music has made its mark on the pop culture world. Groups like Rascall Flatts, the Dixie Chicks, and Lonestar have all found a spot at the top of the charts with an appealing mix of rock and pop infused with the twang of a banjo or a discreetly placed yee-haw. The music and fashion worlds have always followed a parallel path. Traveling through the 60s with its bohemian flair to the disco era of polyester and larger-than-life lapels and finally coming to rest here in the 21st century where fashion rules are made to be broken and you’re only as trendy as you think you are. 

Therefore, it’s no surprise to see cowboy boots, large belt buckles, and bandanas in mainstream shops everywhere. But who needs chain stores when there’s an abundance of local boutiques that can cater to your inner urban cowgirl or boy. So, as you put together your outfit for this weekend’s Downtown Hoedown at Hart Plaza, check out these independent stores for the best deals this side of the Mississippi.

Lost & Found Vintage
This three-story resale shop, considered one of the best in the Midwest, feature’s separate floors for men and women’s apparel. The spacious, well-lit store is filled with nearly-new clothing and accessories from the as far back as the Roaring '20s. Owner Tommy Dorr has stocked the racks with only the highest quality merchandise and offers it to you arranged in convenient style sections, including a substantial selection of country gear like Levi’s, cowboy boots, leather jackets, vests, and skirts. You will be the hit of the Hoedown thanks to the fantastic finds at this Royal Oak favorite.

Urban Blues
Long gone are the days of those high-rise stonewashed jeans you may associate with the country music scene. Find your perfect fit at this Northville denim emporium. Regardless of your body's contours, Urban Blues has the pair to compliment your best asset. Pick up the latest in denim duds from J Brands, True Religion or Rock and Republic so you can get down out to your favorite bands in style. You can also find an assortment of tattoo-printed tees, cool leather belts, and handmade jewelry to finish off your Hoedown ensemble.

Mother Fletcher’s
Located in the always fashionable Ferndale, this narrow second-hand store has fun and funky finds for every occasion. If you’re looking for something to make you the envy of country crooners everywhere, this place can make it happen. Tons of cowboy hats and belt buckles galore will perfectly complete any urban cowboy’s ensemble. For the ladies, they offer a great variety of leather jackets (with tassels or tassel-free) and an assortment of costume jewelry. Need some assistance, just ask for some guidance and Mother Fletcher's will hook you up with an outfit that will stop the show.

Scavenger Hunt
If you’re heading downtown for this weekend’s Hoedown festivities, stop by this kitschy East Lansing consignment shop for the most unique apparel around. Located across from the Michigan State campus, Scavenger Hunt has been dressing fashion forward undergrads for years. Sporting a wide variety of vintage concert tees, Levi’s, cowboy boots and even some old-school Converse Chucks, you are sure to find the perfect way to show the D how country is done.

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