Mildred Douglas Chrisman (1895–1982) used her East Coast arena experience to land a gig in the circus, and then with the 101 Ranch Wild West Show, which featured her as a rough stock rider. There, she met her first husband, who would introduce her to rodeo, where Mildred would earn World Champion status. Unable to escape the impact World War I had on rodeo, Mildred went to Hollywood and worked on silent films with Tom Mix, later marrying his horse trainer, Pat Chrisman, before returning to the Wild West shows, which also highlighted her skills as a trick rider, shooter, and trainer. At the age of 59 she fulfilled her dream of becoming a nurse and later opened her own cowgirl museum. She was inducted into the Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in 1988.
Driving West Jacket
This short-sleeved suede piece by Double D Ranch is shown in the Spring 2017 color, Faded Blue Britches, and recalls the rodeo cowgirl style with fringe and silver conchos. $765
800-899-3379, ddranchwearwomens.com
4 Gore Boot Skirt
Western design pioneer Patricia Wolf nails the Old West Cowgirl look with this boar suede skirt, featuring four fringed vents and hand painted and studded embellishments. $570
800-728-9653, patriciawolf.com
Sierra Scroll Gloves
Another Patricia Wolf winner, these deerskin, hand painted, gauntlet gloves are as functional as they are beautiful. $168
800-728-9653, patriciawolf.com
Bucking Horse Moon Flask
Though it can’t be assumed that Mildred carried an accessory of this nature, this custom flask by Twisted K Leather, designed and crafted by modern-day cowgirl Kristin Allen, would be a perfect choice for a lady bronc rider of any era. Allen was cowboying full-time until demand for her leatherwork took off. She’s currently located in Arizona, team roping and trying to keep up with orders. Message for pricing.
facebook.com/twistedkleather
Woodstock Shirt
This staple from Tasha Polizzi is featured in a crisp white color with a side zip, lace up front, and button snaps on the sleeves and shirt pockets. $144
413-528-6581, tashapolizzi.com
Stud Royale Boots
Updated boots by Lane hearken to evenings spent playing Faro at your Old West saloon of choice. Pictured here in Brown, the boot features scrolled inlay, a spur strap inspired harness, and antiqued brass studs. $395
888-302-6687, laneboots.com
Navajo Necklace and Leather and Pearl Hoop Earrings
Add some feminine flair to this can-do-cowgirl outfit with jewelry from Lucky Lou Designs. This Denver-based business is owned and operated by three sisters, meaning your accessory of choice will be bona fide cowgirl-certified from start to finish.
Necklace, $140; Earrings, $30
720-374-2285, luckyloudesigns.com