Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Haradon.
Hi Amanda, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a Western fashion enthusiast and content creator. I grew up in the rodeo industry in the 90s and since the age of 12, I have competed in the event called cowgirl barrel racing. In 2017, I attended the “Super Bowl” of rodeo events as a spectator. This event is called the National Finals Rodeo (NFR). At this event, I discovered a love for Western fashion. Being an east coast cowgirl I never really was exposed to this side of the western industry until I attended the NFR. In my newfound interest in Western fashion I was quickly learning that it was A LOT of neutral and earth-toned colors, there was a lack of bright fun colors. Growing up in the 90s rodeo industry was all about bright colors and loud patterns and that’s what I loved. I saw a void in the industry and in 2021 I created the persona Neon Wrangler, an outlet where I can display my passion for colorful Western fashion. I started posting my outfits on Instagram and TikTok and quickly grew a following of other people who loved the more colorful side of Western wear. Now Neon is the biggest trend for 2023 in the Western industry and I’ve gotten to work with some big companies like Corral boots, Boot Barn and Wrangler and was recently featured in an article on Cowgirl Magazines blog. Many Western brands are launching Neon Collections this year as well. I’m happy to have found this niche and journey that has helped other men and women step out of the social norms of Western wear and I’m proud to keep influencing this industry.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
At first, people were not so accepting of my “different” style and it also took me a bit to actually find myself and my style in this industry. People got to publicly watch me go through that journey. A lot of people that were not accepting of what I was doing in the beginning are now avid followers and appreciate what I am doing in the industry.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m proud to be seeing some big companies like Wrangler and Corral Boots take inspo from neon/bright colors and feel safe enough to introduce new collections this year. Corral has named theirs the Neon Collection. I’m proud to be working and promoting so many companies this year on their neon collections. This year I am also opening my own store called the Neon Saloon where I will be releasing and selling my own designs and hand-picked fashion pieces. I call the aesthetic for my store Twisted Western
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The Western industry is becoming more mainstream, which is great for our small industry. It’s bringing in a lot of new people and investors which is something that was desperately needed to keep this industry alive and thriving.
I also enjoy seeing my page bring new people to this industry that have never felt comfortable joining before. I don’t like the feeling of gatekeeping our industry, it should be open for all those who want to join and learn about it, generations of knowledge and tradition have to start somewhere and if my page can be a welcoming outlet for someone who may help keep this industry thriving, I am all for it.
I’m excited to keep motivating people to experiment with adding colors into their wardrobe by mixing neons and neutrals or adding a pop of color to switch things up.
In a room full of neutrals, be neon.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/neonwrangler
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/neonwrangler
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090255856347&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Other: http://www.tiktok.com/@neonwrangler
