Shaley Ham, known to her thousands of loyal social media followers as West Desperado, is a familiar face in Western fashion. As a leading Western fashion and lifestyle influencer, Shaley has made an indelible mark on the industry. We are proud to call her a Vogt Silversmiths ambassador. This year, ahead of the 2022 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, we sat down with Shaley to hear her predictions and tips for the big event!
Let's start with an introduction for our readers. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Shaley, and I’m a Washington state-based horse girl with a passion for Western fashion and inspiring my audience on how to style their cowgirl closet staples. I grew up in a rodeo family, so the Western lifestyle is something I’ve known my whole life. I worked as a tax accountant for the past 7 years, while simultaneously sharing Western fashion styles on Instagram and building and connecting with people who share similar interests. I now work full-time as a content creator and influencer, partnering with numerous reputable brands, like Vogt Silversmiths.
For those unfamiliar, can you explain the significance of the NFR to Western fashion?
NFR is the fashion week for the Western industry. While the rodeo finals are of first and foremost importance, it is the one time of year for both men and women to breakout their best duds and embrace their personal style.
Tell us what you’re looking forward to at this year’s NFR!
Of course I am excited to watch the rodeo, but other things I am looking forward to are shopping at Cowboy Christmas, attending concerts, and hanging out with friends I only get to see a few times a year.
Shaley wears: The Alixandria Cocktail Earrings, The High Country Scarf Slide, The Clara Concho Bracelet, The South Rim Cuff, The Rope Edged Jackson, The Clara Going Out Ring, The Turn 'Em Loose Ring, The Russet Running Oak Leaf Belt
What are the style trends you’re predicting we’ll see at this year's event?
Some trending styles we will see more than others are metallics, feathers, disco-sequins, head-to-toe denim, and classic western (think Ralph Lauren).
Shaley wears: The Alixandria Cocktail Earrings, The Longhorn Bolo
Current trends aside, what are some of the most timeless looks you incorporate into your personal take on Western style?
As I mentioned in the previous question, you can’t go wrong with a full denim look. Additionally, incorporating blazers, leather pieces, silver jewelry, and a well-shaped cowboy hat will always be in style.
What are some of your top tips for a great NFR experience?
Create a game plan before you go, such as what days you want to attend the rodeo, where you want to shop and eat and concerts you’d like to attend, but keep your schedule flexible and be ready to go with the flow! The NFR is a time to have fun, so don’t add stress to yourself by trying to stick to a strict agenda.
Shaley wears: The Clara Concho Bracelet, The South Rim Cuff, The Clara Going Out Ring, The Turn 'Em Loose Ring
As a Vogt ambassador, you’ve incorporated so many Vogt pieces into your timeless looks. Which Vogt pieces would you recommend for NFR?
I personally love all the pieces in the Blair and Clara collections. I will commonly wear my Blair Cuff with my Clara Going Out Ring and Clara Countryside Hoops, and this combo always adds the perfect finishing touch to every look.
Any insider shopping tips for making the most of all the great vendors in Vegas during NFR?
There are more than 4-5 shopping venues, so I would dedicate a whole day to shopping one venue. If you aren’t in Vegas for that many days, pick your top venues to walk through. Each location has so much to offer, you won’t want to be rushing through just to get to the next place. Cowboy Christmas at the LV Convention Center is a must, offering the widest selection of vendors and entertainment, including the Vogt Silversmiths booth. South Point is also a great place to shop and enjoy saddle bronc and team roping happening at the indoor arena on site.
Shaley wears: The Alixandria Cocktail Earrings, The High Country Scarf Slide, The Rope Edged Jackson, The Russet Running Oak Leaf Belt
Where can fans see you during the week?
I have a super fun schedule planned! I will be splitting my time at all the shopping locations, attending the rodeo for a few performances, and ending my evenings at some of the funnest concerts and after-parties around town. I can’t wait to meet so many of you in Vegas!
Thank you Shaley!
We love hearing from Shaley and sure appreciate her for sharing these insights with all of us! You can follow Shaley on Instagram here.
Use her code, WESTDESPERADO10, for a discount on your next order!
Shop Shaley's Looks