The holy pattern of cow
A playful pattern to counteract spells of seriousness
One major flaw of my personality is that my internal compass easily gets miscalibrated, steering me toward excessive seriousness. When I find myself furrowing my brow at everyone and everything, my face muscles get tired, and that’s how I know my intensity is off the charts.
The only explanation for this tendency is that my moon is in Scorpio! According to this site,“No other moon sign in the zodiac experiences emotions as deeply or intensely.” Fun.
Luckily, I am a Libra sun and Aries rising, so I am not a complete drag. But, I find my own seriousness is exhausting! One of the many delightful things about clothing is that it has the power to change the way I see myself, and the way I feel. This is why I must own fun and funny clothes - it is integral to keeping my mood balanced.
Now, let me ask you — is there anything more fun than the humble cow print? It’s playful aesthetic has evolved as staple in my wardrobe, offering a perfect balance of classic and quirky. Whenever I am feeling drab or down in the dumps, a sure way to add a little pep in my step is to wear my cow hat. I often get compliments on it, which makes me feel cool and special (compliments for all!). The classic pattern has been sneaking into my consciousness here and there, so I thought I’d give you the Best Friends edit of cool, cow themed, second-hand finds.
I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention the fact that Jeff owns the best cow shirt I’ve ever seen. If ever I had any doubts about my obsession with him (I didn’t), they were completely erased when that shirt sent me over the moooon.
With any animal print, the line between edgy and cheesy is wafer thin. I’m not here to stop any cheeseballs from living their gratest lives, but I prefer to sprinkle bold patterns into an outfit via accessories. To honor more style tendencies than just my own, you’ll find a smorgasbord of cow-themed items below.
It’s my favorite kind of collection — cool finds ranging from high-end fashion to dirty old t-shirts.
STAUD cow print bucket bag
This bag is the perfect example of a cute little designer accessory to give your outfit a punch of playful, pastoral charm.
Vintage Long Sleeve Cropped Sweatshirt
I’m a thin, boxy, sweatshirt kind of girl, so this is ticking all my boxes. I can imagine wearing this with another pattern like stripes or plaid, dressing it up with a long skirt, or going full on Wranglers and boots with it. Also, a very fun and easy halloween costume in the makings with this – which I think adds to the fun. Aren’t all clothes just costumes anyway?
Versace Vintage Cow Print Wrap
OK, fancy pants! I don’t expect anyone to buy this (you definitely should if you love it and have the funds), but it’s a sample of the beloved pattern in a “high-end'“ fashion context. I would definitely wear this mini-skirt with a cool vintage tee.
Moschino Italian Cow Houndstooth
Jeremy Scott famously used cow print during his time with Moschino. His designs are a little too eccentric for my taste, but I love this Moschino button-up. The houndstooth is a great nod to the cow pattern, plus there’s a little cow embroidered on the front pocket!
New Balance low trainers
Cow print has even made its way into the athletic / streetwear domain. These New Balances are so gosh darn cool. A very fun way to spice up your fall wardrobe. Can you imagine these with a red sock? Me too.
vintage hat black and white cow snapback Cap 90's
I linked to the Baggu cow hat I have above, but this is a true vintage version from the 90’s which makes it extra special. It has a perfect fade, and it’s a great way to introduce the pattern into your wardrobe.
Vintage Cow Shirt
This is the inverse of Jeff’s cow shirt. It’s got a Spy vs. Spy thing going on and I should seriously consider adding this to our collective wardrobe.
Lisa Says Gah Robyn High-Waisted Cow Print Jean
These were one of the first things I thought of when sourcing items for this collection. My friend Claire (hi! miss you) has these in brown and they look so good on her. You’re sure to have fun in these party pants.
Susan Alexandra beaded cow purse
I love how unexpected this purse is. The beads elevate the whole thing making it closer to a piece of art than just a bag. Susan Alexandra has a lot of fun beaded purses if this one isn’t for you.
lisa says gah elenor mock neck midi dress
I had to include this full cow dress for the very fun, and bold dressing readers of this newsletter. This midi is sure to add levity to any serious-leaning wardrobe.
Baggu- horizontal canvas duck bag
The duck bag version of my cow hat – another easy way to add a little cow to your pasture.
Vintage Farm Life Cow
This is the closest in vibe to Jeff’s shirt that I could find. It’s not quite as awesome, but it has a beautiful faded pastoral scene that must be acknowledged. A perfect addition to any wardrobe.
No. 6 Store Old School Clogs on Mid Heel
I’ve always wanted these clogs but I’ve never sealed the deal. Perhaps this is the year…?
FW99 Roberto Cavalli Cow Psycho Dress
It's funny how this realistic cow pattern actually looks more abstract than the stylized version that has become the standard for cow prints. If you blur your eyes it almost looks more spacey than terrestrial.
vintage cow girl tee
Not cow patterned but very cow, girl.
Just remember, cow print is a design that refuses to be boxed into a single category - just like all of us. We aren’t JUST serious, or silly – we can choose to be as dynamic as the spots on any cow.
Thanks for grazing with me today!
XO – Kellyn (a.k.a. Best Friends)🐄
Fav one yet! But also the hot dog one lolz
It’s giving https://youtu.be/JohcbfO0OjA?si=0MeF4MwUr_wRAv-p