East meets West: Danish designer Malene Birger updates the Western look for her Spring/Summer 2006 collection in Shanghai, China. Photo by THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

In a week and a half, the Miss Rodeo America competition comes to Las Vegas with a bevy of Wrangler jeans, spurs, cowboy hats and big hair in tow. The 51st annual, weeklong event -- which continues the tradition of the professional rodeo and promoting the "Western way of life" -- features numerous activities, including competitions on horsemanship, public speaking, rodeo knowledge and Western fashion.

I met Kimberly Downs, Miss Rodeo Nevada and a contestant for Miss Rodeo America 2006, at her Las Vegas home last week. She welcomed me into her space, where we chose clothing and accessories for our Nov. 24 cover shoot.

As petite and hospitable as you'd expect any accomplished rodeo queen to be, Downs showed me numerous selections from her pageantry wear. There were formal leather dresses in red and pink leather; custom-made cowboy boots in red, white and blue; gem-studded jewelry and brightly colored shirts with Wrangler jeans dyed to match. Not to mention the intricate detailing in hand painted murals, cattle branded leathers and embellished silver belt buckles.

Though many of us will never boast a rodeo title and some of us lack even the courage and fortitude to mount (or stay on) a horse, we can agree on one thing: Western is in.

Runway shows herald the "Best of the West" with updated cowboy boots made of haircalf, python and tooled leather fabrics; prairie skirts in neutral prints and bright colors; straw hats interpreted from the buckskin cowboy models; and, of course, lots and lots of denim.

In next week's image, you'll meet Downs and get a look at the wardrobe she takes with her to the finals. We'll also talk to Monty Lewis, the 2004 Tie-Down World Champion, who still says "yes ma'am" in response to a question, and talks about the evolution of Western wear. (Monty will be in town for the National Finals Rodeo from Dec. 2 through Dec. 11 at the Thomas & Mack Center). Also, read about some upcoming day-after-Thanksgiving sales and how best to plan for and shop on the largest retail event of the year.

This week, Xazmin gives you some table decorating tips for making sure your Thanksgiving Day celebration is one not to be missed; and in imale, read how leather boots for men are a new fashion trend that can be worn with many outfits in your wardrobe.

And if it's not yourself you're interested in shopping for, read up on some high-class fashion accessories for your pooch in "It's A Doggie Dog World."

Contact olufunke moses at 387-2909 or omoses@reviewjournal.com