The Ben Harper Shirt

With SXSW (South by Southwest) quickly approaching in Austin, I'm fashion inspired by arguably the worlds best stage for arts. My boyfriend is into "yallternative"; a style of music that is alternative country/blues/rock. Wilco, Drive by Truckers, etc when mixed with a fashion element provides me with a hotty, Austin style. I must say I dig it.


So the other night we were watching Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 when he remarked; " I want a Ben Harper shirt!" Wow, there's a name for that thing he's wearing? A cowboy shirt with floral pattern? A denim western that doesn't look like a redneck? I guess there really is no other term for these apparel concoctions.


The guidelines for what counts as a "Ben Harper shirt" are as follows...

• Must be a denim, gingham or plaid pattern & long sleeve. Patterns running across the shoulders such as flowers, birds/animals or stripes are a great find!
• Examples of tacky are any shirts with dice, skeletons, loud embroidery that cannot be covered by placing your 2 hands over it. Put it back on the hanger. No matter how cool you think you are, NO ONE should wear that.

• Pockets could either have a slight western curve or frosted pearl button closures
• Must be worn untucked.

After perusing the vintage stores and hipster boutiques, you found THE shirt. Now what? Put on some Wranglers? Hells no. Buy a 10 gallon hat? Only if you want to pick-up a woman at the truck stop on I-10.


Here is my guide to werkin the Ben Harper shirt. The goal here is to NOT look like a cowboy but more hipster with intrigue.


Accessorize. Yes even thought you're a guy you can do this! 

• 80's wristbands
• Native american print headband (okay, i'm stretching here)
• Knit beanie/ski cap (my friend AC knits some stellar ones, I can put you in touch)
• Fedora hat
• Crossbody Messenger bag
• Shell or wooden short necklace

Shoes! 

• Huraches, Vans, Toms or biker boots work well. 

Outerwear 

• Leather jacket, neutral windbreaker or corduroy blazer.

If you have a decent voice and a gentle soul you'll be an instant chick magnet. 
Warning! If you take this look to Austin you may not ever get out of your hotel room to see a band.*
*Notice: DressedOut is not responsible for any harrassment from the opposite sex.