The Ultimate Guide: The Last Rodeo Hen Do Theme

Saddle up ladies, it’s time for the final rodeo before she says I DO. If you’re planning a hen do in 2023, it’s hard to look past that Western theme that seems to be everywhere right now. Western is in, and we’re taking any chance we can get to wear a pair of cowboy boots on a random Tuesday in November.

With that being said, planning a Last Rodeo themed hen do that doesn’t cross into tacky doesn’t come easy. With rhinestones, tassels and cow-print galore, you’ve got your work cut out for you.

Luckily, with help from some of the most fashion-forward girls (and guys) we know — some single, some hitched, some about to walk down the aisle — we’re grabbing the bull by the horns and laying everything you need out for you. From Western theme bride-tribe outfits to Rodeo itineraries, we’re taking the stress out of the rodeo.

Alexa, play ‘I Feel Like A Woman’ by Tina Turner. Let’s go girls.

While the Western theme is great for dressing up, it’s even better for dressing up an Airbnb or garden if you’re having a home-hen at home. We’re talking hay bales, saloons and ride-on horses. Here’s our picks to bring your rodeo to life, without losing the Western charm. And trust us, it’s an easy slip. It’s easy to get carried away, one wrong move and the image of your MIL on a bucking bronco will stay with you for life.

There isn’t an easier theme to decorate for than a rodeo, which makes your job a lot easier.

If you’re outside, stock up on hay bales — these are pretty cheap on Amazon — or opt for backdrops instead. We’re grabbing some gingham table covers and a rodeo themed balloon arch with cow-print in there somewhere.

Top it off with a lifesize horse and you’re just about ready to rodeo.

For drinks, we’re going down the Blanco route. Do the hens drink tequila? Unlikely. Are we going to stock the fridge with 818 Tequila for the sake of the theme? Yessir.

Is Tequila Western? Honestly, no. Tequila = cacti, sombreros, and maybe a mariachi band playing in the background. But, KJ created 818 Tequila to ‘capture the spirit of her hometown’, the San Fernando Valley in California. While the valley isn’t Western in the traditional sense, she’s pulled from the rugged charm of the region. And it’s a branding masterpiece. Cowboy hats sell tequila — who knew?

Top them off with some hat toppers (get it?) and you’re good to go.

If you’re hitting the town to dance the night away, your options are more limited (but no less fun). With group cowboy (or girl) hats you’ve normally put a tick in the theme box in one-go, but why stop there?

Ah, yee old stick horses. These will no doubt become an absolute pain after two hours of carting them around, but if you’re daytime drinking they might just be a non-negotiable. Galloping along the streets of Dublin with a wooden horse between your legs? Sold. It’s a conversation starter.

I know I said we wanted to keep it classy, but sometimes the best thing you can do is just embrace the downright weird. Who needs a groom when you can hit the town with a life-size inflatable cow.

If the bride— and it’s a big if — is a big photo taker, photo lover, photo care about’er, you’re going to coordinate colours. It just makes for nicer shots, and also can stop anyone from feeling out of place. Basic rules for a Last Rodeo themed evening:

• • If we’re going out in the evening, we’re going hens in black (or pink if barbiecore is your thing) and the bride in white.
  • If we’re day drinking, we’re allowing denim.

The best thing you can do is send a moodboard for your hens to give them an idea as to where we’re going.

The Last Rodeo is one of the easiest hen themes to dress for, but one of the most fun to play with.

We’re talking white mini dress: plain, simple with a featured back. Then, we’ll let the accessories do the talking. Or walking, in the coveted words of Shania Twain.

When it comes to a rodeo-themed hen do, cowboy boots are an absolute must. They’re not just a fashion statement; they’re a symbol of the wild, untamed spirit that embodies rodeo culture. Slip on a pair of these bad boys and she’ll never want to take them off.

Now, there are a couple of options when it comes to cowboy boots. You can go for the classic, traditional style with intricate stitching and a slightly worn-in look. These boots have a rugged charm that screams “I mean business.” Go white, go brown, or go fringed — each work a treat.

If you want to add a touch of flair, opt for cowboy boots with a colourful twist. Picture bold shades of turquoise, fiery reds, or metallic finishes. These statement boots will have all eyes on you as you two-step your way through the night. Cowboy boots have officially made their  comeback, so you can rest assured you’ll get your wear out of them throughout the year.

Of course, no rodeo-themed ensemble is complete without a cowboy hat. It’s the crowning glory that completes the look and instantly transports you to the dusty arenas where bull-riding legends are made. You’ve not really got a choice here, it’s go big or go home — rhinestone BRIDE is a non negotiable.

To add an extra layer of badassery, consider throwing on an oversized jacket. Denim or leather, take your pick. This piece not only adds a cool factor to your look but is also practical. As the night progresses and the temperatures drop, you’ll be glad to have something warm and stylish to throw on. Plus, there’s something undeniably cool about strutting around in an oversized jacket with your hen squad, ready to take on the world (or at least the dance floor).

Luckily, it’s just as easy for the rest of the hen party to wrangle an outfit.

For the guests, we’re going with black as the base of your outfit. 90% of ladies will have a LBD tucked away at the back of the wardrobe, or at the very least will wear one again if they buy it new.

Then, we’re adding the Western charm to your ensemble.

Top it off with a cowboy hat, because no rodeo-inspired outfit is complete without this iconic accessory. Gigi & Olive stock incredible black rhinestone cowboy hats, while you can also pick up a cow-print hat for the group that won’t break the bank.

Next up, the cowboy boots. These babies aren’t just reserved for the bride-to-be; they’re the ultimate statement piece for any rodeo-loving guest. These boots will take your outfit to new heights (literally) and have you ready to line dance like there’s no tomorrow.

Top tip: if you don’t want to buy cowboy boots, but want to stick with the theme, a suede ankle boot will do the trick.

Now, the final accessory. We’re talking about temporary tattoos of the groom-to-be, with a cowboy hat to match. What better way to celebrate the upcoming nuptials than with a cheeky nod to the man of the hour? Place these fun and quirky tattoos strategically on your arms, wrists, or even cheek, and watch as they become conversation starters throughout the night.

Of course, accessorise with some statement Western-inspired jewellery. Think chunky silver bangles, turquoise necklaces, or even a rustic belt with an oversized buckle.

And that’s a wrap on the rodeo. Remember, your Last Rodeo-themed hen do doesn’t have to be cow-print chaos. With enough Western charm (and even more tequila), you can plan a celebration that will have everyone saying, “Yeehaw!”

Now, let’s raise our glasses, kick up our boots, and toast to an unforgettable Last Rodeo. Happy hen.