“Damn, I forgot how good-looking everyone is in Texas!” the woman next to me said, as we approached the gates of Luck Ranch. My smile was equal parts Texas pride and pure excitement, as I took in my hill country surroundings — an oasis amidst the SXSW madness. The women, men, and kids sharing Willie Nelson’s ranch for the day rocked various combinations of leather boots, chain-stitched denim, hand-crafted hats, and custom jewelry, as well as other items rooted in traditional craft. If you didn’t arrive in any of these items, there’s a good chance you left with one, after visiting the skilled Luck vendors. I know I did!
On the repurposed set of the 1986 film, Red Headed Stranger, the annual Luck Reunion draws a specific audience in with its well-curated line-up of artists, vendors, and other creators who “cultivate the new, while showing honor to influence” in their work. It’s hard to believe this idyllic, single-day music festival wasn’t a mirage or dream induced by way too much of Willie’s Reserve. Here was a damn good-looking group of people listening to some damn good tunes.
Lilly Hiatt
Micah Nelson wearing Featherweight
Aaron Lee Tasjan in Lone Hawk; Caleb Caudle; and Devon Gilfillian
Sam of Quaker City Night Hawks
Nikki Lane in Wallflowers suit and Worth & Worth hat; Sam Lewis; and Onye wearing her own designs, Effie and Onanu
Nashville illustrator Emily Miller
Marie of Lockhart Embroidery
Lede image: Ft. Lonesome
