Firstly HI! I have taken my first actual ‘vacation’ in about three years with no posts and whilst I believe everyone should enjoy the pleasure of living in the moment, I have severely missed my favourite people and corner of social media. Naturally when I got back I got sick too, but let’s not dwell on that…
When I tell you I have come back from one of those trips that just shapes you as a person, how easy it could be to carry on through life not seeing or knowing some of the beauty that is out there - but boy am I glad to have seen it and experienced it. Not just in the National Parks or untouched towns but in the people we met along the way. I firmly believe everyone should go on a trip like this, even to just a few places on this list. So, without further ado this is ‘Everything the Cool Girls are doing/wearing in the Wild West’ OSD version:
ESTES PARK
I’m going to keep Estes short and sweet because we mainly came for the Rockies and that we conquered. However if you find yourself in the area you must go to Kind Coffee for the best drinks of your life, the ‘Alpine Miele’ was to die for.
Now there are brands that try to do Western and fail miserably, then there is Nili Lotan. A quick peruse through the NL website tells you everything you need to know, as does this incredible brown suede fringe jacket from them that I shall keep forever. It appears I’m not the only one who thinks this way, seeing as the brand was stocked in almost every town we visited. From a boutique in Whitefish, to on-site stores in the Sun Valley Resort. Key pieces I saw included this, this and these.
I’m wearing the fringe jacket with vintage Levis, a black halter, belt, clutch and heels.
SARATOGA, WY.
Now fast forward to us staying in the very small town of ‘Elk Mountain’ in Wyoming (see more on that below). We were wondering what on earth to do for a whole day, when our hotel was the only form of life in the area. After some pondering we ended up in Saratoga (actually not where the blue bottled water is from, that’s in New York as I found out) and thank goodness we did. We had zero expectations but when we walked into this turquoise vintage shop I think we knew this was going to make our entire trip. The owner was SO lovely and took such delight in telling me about his impeccably curated collection of vintage and new pieces, from authentic Native American jewellery and belts to vintage boots and accessories. We spent almost an hour in there and I could have spent more - I certainly wished I did once I saw prices of similar pieces in places like Jackson. I strongly urge everyone to visit here if they can and pick up one off pieces like the bangles I now never want to be without.
Apologies if I sound like a broken record but even the Mountain West of America isn’t immune to Doen’s charm, even if I was the sole ringleader in some ‘population 100’ towns (in that case it was my duty to introduce them to such). Enter Jackson, Sun Valley and Whitefish where Dôen is essentially the summer version of a snow plough when we’re talking levels of importance to the chic and smart. Unlike NYC sightings, in the West it’s more pattern like this, this and this and IYKYK outerwear like this. What can I say? Where men love Carhartt, women love Dôen and the best people love both.
I said population 100 towns and I meant it with this one. I’m not sure how me and James found this hotel but I’m so glad we did. I mean where else are you going to stay in a haunted hotel (for one night we were actually locked in as the only guests!) that was built in 1905 and had the likes of Louis Armstrong play within it’s walls back in it’s prime. Instead of 5* ‘must go’ online famed resorts etc etc, I personally prefer and highly recommend staying somewhere like this and being a part of another community for a little while.
JACKSON
Spoiler alert, the best shopping of the entire trip….buckle in!
The Row Margaux of Western Hats IMO. If the chic people of the West are wearing a hat it’s either a classic Stetson or a Kemo Sabe. If you’re wanting to save a little, Stetson is the original and will never not be cool for less than KS. However this is OSD after all and my little treat of the trip was a luxury cowboy hat from Kemo Sabe that I knew I’d cherish forever. I did a Beaver hat in natural with a simple band moment and silver metal star gracing the back - classic with a twist as per usual. Even if you’re not buying, you must visit one of their stores just to take in the experience , because it certainly is one. We got there first thing which I’d highly recommend, we walked past later in the day and it was packed!
As I said above these hats are an absolute classic, a little cheaper yet they are the original cowboy hats that you truly can’t go wrong with. Beaver Creek Hat’s and Leather in Jackson had just about every Stetson style you could imagine.
Ever since I visited the Aflalo showroom in NYC back in May, these silk trousers had been on my mind. They had also been on waitlist for a month. Just my luck they came back in and arrived the day before my trip and one day’s wear in Jackson got me about a million comments on them (I love Americans). I took a small and didn’t look back. Worn above with my adored Toteme tank, Agolde x Maria McManus black shirt, black flip flops and cowboy hat - yeehaw.
If you were ever familiar with Cutter Brooks (an impeccable boutique in the Cotswolds that also happened to be my first job in fashion) then consider The IC to be Jackson’s answer to such. It is rare thing to walk into a space and truly want everything, every corner was filled with interesting homeware and accessories that could only be known of through years of building and chiseling taste.
The person behind such taste is Katie von Strasser, a once in a lifetime woman (if you meet her you’ll understand) who’s taste has been shaped by ballet dancing for numerous years, followed by studies at Parson’s and Christie’s in London, and finally not to mention years spent at the Hermes US H.Q. Katie knows great things and how to sell them, it takes a lot for James to be impressed and he was blown away by the items in the store. We left with a brown saddle leather rocking horse, a pinky ring, silver frames and exquisite candle - however I think I need to book a trip back with an extra case just for the Austrian china.
The Pinky Ring I bought from IC above that deserves a separate mention, we initially saw one on the pinky of the very chic Grit General founder Kate and were intrigued - I bought this black one and it just adds such a fun touch to any outfit.
There are interior stores, then there is Mountain Dandy in Jackson. This might be one of the best interior shops I have ever been to, if you’re familiar with Alex Eagle in London - this feels like the Jackson offering. Coffee table books for any interest, niche pottery brands and homeware from cult brands like ‘Saved NY’ and ‘Missoni’.
If you like travel guides, read these!
If you’re a Ralph Lauren lover then this is the store for you, Grit General is a place where ‘city meets mountain’. Founded by Billy ‘Zeb’ Smith and his wife Kate, the store is one of only four in the world to sell Double RL (the fact that Ralph Lauren is his godfather tells you everything you need to know about the quality of the selection here). Despite being a menswear store I couldn't resist but try a few things (mostly jackets, see above), but when I tried the above fringed camel & black cardigan it was cashmere love at first sight.
If you were wondering where the chic ladies & gentlemen of Jackson are buying their clothing, well look no further. Upon entering this store I could tell you that immediately from the row of Jamie Haller and sea of Bode, R13 and Guest in Residence. Despite only being a small shop it took most of my money, mainly towards THE Jamie Haller sandals (sold out everywhere but here, must have been fate), R13 beige jeans and the perfect Jamie Haller Cotton shirt.
Naturally on this trip I brought about 7 pairs of shoes, yet bought this pair of Jamie Haller sandals halfway through and exclusively wore those. I also loved and wore the soft leather version too (as shown above) please consider them my evening version.
Unfortunately for my wallet and those around me, denim is one of those things I will never stop hoarding and R13 might just be my latest fix. Now, I have heard all the coolest people talking about this brand, but never bit until I found the above beige boyfriend jeans in Habits - tried them and of course it was love at first sight (in a very cool girl slouchy way). They also had these I didn’t dare try on but I am tempted by.
It is my humble opinion that John Derian and Astier de Villatte are in the highest tier of luxury interiors. So think of a store that has both, along with Trudon scents, shaped pewter accessories and curated textiles - that is Twenty Two Home in Jackson AKA my personal heaven and wallet hell.
Right off the bat, coming here feels like you’ve stepped into a machine that immediately transports you to LA or Santa Barbara - it’s great people watching. It’s also home to some of the BEST food in Jackson, I’m still thinking about that chicken salad sandwich now and that French toast is the best I’ve ever had, anywhere. They also sell some cute textiles to take home with you, for the lovers of French inspired aprons and napkins.
Wondering where to fulfil your vintage fix in Jackson? Head to Womenfolk and expect to find cult pieces from Etro, Ralph Lauren, Alexander McQueen, Khaite you name it. I will warn you that prices in Jackson in general are definitely more than other towns, so bear that in mind and be savvy….
The deep upset I feel writing about this place whilst being unable to have a coffee from there right this second, is frankly overwhelming. I knew it had a hype and I was curious to try it, unfortunately it was even better than we expected and we went every single day. What is it about iced vanilla latte’s in the US?
High quality, grass fed beef, stacked on a brioche bun and paired with an assortment of perfectly complimentary salad veggies and onions - oh and fries. The best burger I had on this trip hands down.
SUN VALLEY, IDAHO.
We actually came here from a quiet ranch and let me tell you the contrast was…something! It seems that anyone who is anyone likes to congregate and stay at Sun Valley Resort. The weekend we were there was actually Emma Roberts wedding nearby so do with that what you will. It was extremely beautiful and I think they probably have a zero crime statistic. There is everything you could need and more, a selection of actually good shops (see below), restaurants and activities - all nestled within the picturesque mountains of Idaho. Go and relax with family or have a dreamy couples break. - gosh I sound like I’ve been ‘Sunvalleyfied’.
This is a really good example of a hotel store offering, so much so I was honestly a little blown away. I mean how often do you come across brands like Nili Lotan, TWP, Brunello and Ulla Johnson in a hotel store, not even like last bits of last season. We’re talking the full deal ladies.
Oh I had almost done SO well not buying any The Row on this trip, and I really didn’t think I was going to (I mean it’s hardly the first thing you think of in Idaho). Yet there I was, and there Elle Rose was. They even had two sister stores next to each other so I really was doomed. One was classic luxury with the likes of Loro Piana, The Row and Bottega, the other was more contemporary with High Sport, and bag brand Rue de Verneuil (I LOVED these bags above). I naturally walked out in my purchase, a pair of The Row Adam suede loafers, if you will.
For the best brunch in Sun Valley, that again seemed like everyone was going to - The Kneadery did the best pancakes from the whole trip. Just get there early or be prepared to wait 15 minutes for a table.
Davis
I must say I debated putting this one in as we were hovering by the locked door for 5 minutes and ignored by the shop assistant, lol. However I haven’t seen such a good Phoebe Philo curation in person (through the window should I say) for a while and thought one of you may have better luck getting in than us.
A belt that truly put the work in for me this trip, I was desperately searching for an authentic concho belt but nothing quite scratched the itch enough. So, where other belts failed this one never stopped adding to outfit after outfit. Saying that I think I need this Ralph one after years of pondering..
For great coffee and a locals favourite vintage stop, this is the place. They truly have something for everyone, including some really good vintage slips I had my eye on. P.S if you pop next door to the consignment store you’ll find some great gems.
Arguably the highlight of my trip and something I’ll never forget. When we were planning our trip, James was persistent on us staying at a ranch at some point and thankfully I listened to him. We booked Moose Creek Ranch in Idaho (only 30 mins away from Jackson Hole) with no idea what to expect, but we devoured every part of our stay. We chose the hut’s for more room, ours was looking out on the horses which was dreamy. We simply relaxed and enjoyed horse riding, outdoor saunas/cold plunges and many an evening nestled in the Teton’s. I can’t recommend it highly enough and it now feels like SO long ago.
Whilst you’re at MCR head to the Butter Cafe for brunch, you’ll have the best burrito of your LIFE.
CODY
Pendleton/B Sides Denim
James bought the perfect red Pendleton check shirt back in Saratoga and being the loving partner I am, stole it before he wore it himself. It seems to be an old style but find similar here, here and here. On a more denim note, to think I contemplated packing these B Sides Lasso Jeans! I packed 8, yes 8 pairs of jeans and mostly wore these, yikes. Probably why we had to buy an extra case for the way back. Anyway I bought these jeans 5 years ago and they have never faltered.
Rodeo!
A must when you’re in the West, we went in ‘Rodeo Capital’ Cody and loved it.
On the subject of Cody, if you’re looking for somewhere to stay that feels historic, chic and quiet - we loved staying here. It’s in the middle of town so you don’t need to worry about driving in daily etc.
WHITEFISH
Would this be a ‘Mountain West’ guide without paying ode to the brand echoed and reflected in every passing moment? Obviously not. Whether it’s vintage, old or new Ralph Lauren just is the Wild West and coming back I fear a flame of love hath been ignited. I bought this shirt (for James again oops) in Sun Valley and cracked it out for Whitefish, Montana. I wore it with white linen pants, same ol’ belt and jewellery galore. Find similar shirts here, here and here.
I did not expect to find this gem in Whitefish, despite everyone saying it’s apparently the new place to be. If you’re a lover of minimal fashion M.Studio is the place to go. Find brands like Nili Lotan (I told you, everywhere here!), House of Dagmar and Loulou De Saison. It’s a real unexpected gem.
215 Central
For vintage lovers, go here. Just up the street from M.Studio is a store that really has something for everyone. Now by that I mean head to the back (where the vintage is) and have a good dig around. Oh I should also tell you the whole street basically is a minefield of antique stores but again, be savvy and dig.
Like a moth to a flame, I will always find a good shop. Cabin Creek was no exception, especially for homeware lovers. As said moth, I will also find something to buy in any good shop - so I left with the perfect little painting for my bedroom. Voila!
This place was a recommendation given to me by someone I trust, and they did not let me down. If you want a proper American saloon experience with some great pizza and peanuts - this was a fun supper that certainly left a lasting impression on my retinas (you are basically sat in pitch darkness).
If you need a break from antiquing and minimal clothing shopping in Whitefish, pop into Folklore for the best coffee and sourdough cinnamon buns.
The National Parks!
It goes without saying that if you do any part of this trip, make sure you dedicate multiple days to the National Parks. I have never been so envious of America. In particular I think everyone needs to go to Yellowstone, especially if you love wildlife. Just the thrill of spotting something was priceless, we saw Bison, Elk, Deer Moose, Bears and Cubs - truly unforgettable.
OW X
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