Big Tex to receive a wardrobe change for 2026 State Fair of Texas
Published 5:40 am Sunday, July 26, 2026
Don’t let the triple-digit summer temperatures fool you: The State Fair of Texas is right around the corner, and this year, Big Tex will be wearing new clothes.
After a decades-long run with Dickies, the State Fair announced in a statement that Cavender’s Boot City will design Big Tex’s Western shirt and Resistol will don him with a new 95-gallon cowboy hat. The change was sparked by Dickies headquarters moving from Fort Worth to California last year.
Resistol was founded in Dallas in 1927 and is headquartered in Garland. Cavender’s is based in Tyler.
“Partnering with Cavender’s and Resistol brings together two Texas brands that authentically represent the Western heritage, craftsmanship, and pride that Big Tex has embodied for generations,” said Jennifer Schuder, the State Fair’s senior vice president for customer service. “We’re excited for fairgoers to see Big Tex sporting a new look that celebrates the very best of Texas.”
Along with his new clothes, Big Tex will don boots designed by 31-year-old Aaliyah McNeal, who was announced as the 2026 design contest winner in March.
McNeal, who lives in Georgia and grew up visiting the State Fair with family members who live near Fair Park, beat out nearly 450 other entrants who submitted designs for the size-96 boots.
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Big Tex made his debut at the State Fair of Texas in 1952 and has been a key landmark ever since.
Catch a glimpse of his new look at the fair, themed “Stars, Stripes, and Howdies,” running Sept. 25 through Oct. 18.