Hello Think Country! I’m over the moon to have been invited to run a regular fashion feature here on this blog.


I should probably start by introducing myself: my name is Melanie (Mel) Fielden and I’m the founder of the new fashion brand Melbelle Western x Boho. Melbelle is an online women’s fashion boutique specialising in modern western and romantic bohemian styles, but you can also find us in our pop-up stall at UK music festivals and country shows throughout the summer including Black Deer, Tennessee Fields and The Long Road.
Each month I’ll be giving you the low-down on what’s trending in the western fashion scene and sharing ideas on how you can take inspiration and incorporate these trends into your outfits. We’ll also find the best places to shop!
In this debut feature, we’ll explore two stand-out fashion trends for spring/summer 2022: cowboy hats and fringe details.
Cowboy Hats
There is nothing that screams ‘Western’ like the signature cowboy hat – and I’m pleased to say it’s making a comeback! Over the past few years, flat wide-brimmed fedoras have been enjoying their moment but the classic curved brim is fighting back. With top western influencers such as Shaley Ham, aka ‘West Desperado’, and Marijka Hunsaker frequently donning a classic cowboy hat in their Instagram feeds, we’ll be seeing a lot more of this style over the summer.

Caption: Western fashion influencer Marijka Hunsaker
A good cowboy hat is particularly difficult to find in the UK, but there are a handful of places that stock them including Melbelle (I’m wearing the Tombstone Cowboy Hat in the picture below), Wild Wild Western Wear and Free People. Stockists in the USA include Pro Hats, Stetson, Charlie 1 Horse Hat Co., Warbonnet Hat Works and Simply Twisted Hat Co..

Fringe Details
Fringe is in! And not just in the western fashion world; fringe details have taken over our high street this spring and we’ll be seeing a lot more over the summer – especially at the festivals. Think fringe jackets, fringe bags, fringe vests, fringe skirts, fringe tops and even fringe homeware items!

Caption: The Melbelle Faux Suede Fringe Jacket modelled by Rohiny Belani and photographed by Natalia Kacar Photography
With brands such as Free People, Nasty Gal, River Island, Warehouse and of course Melbelle all stocking fringe pieces, there is no shortage of places to shop this trend. >> Quick tip: enter ‘fringe’ into the search bar of your favourite stores to save browsing for hours (unless you want to, of course) <<

Caption: The Melbelle Boho Western Fringe Vest modelled by Rohiny Belani with makeup and hair by Flash Kate MUA
Oh and just before I go, if you’ve not already spotted the boho western-themed Warehouse x Kara Rose collaboration collection, you need to head on over and check it out – bonus, it’s on sale!
Thanks again for having me Think Country; I hope you’ve all enjoyed this post. I’ll be back next month for the next Melbelle Fashion Roundup; meanwhile be sure to come and say hello over on Instagram.
Mel x
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