The Asphalt Cowboy
Your grandfather calls you an asfalt atchy, an asphalt horseman. Your grandfather also rides a donkey to the mosque. Who's winning? Here is everything you need to walk into the Aigyr Deck like you've got forty Akyels in a stable in the Chu valley.
1. The hat
Black for Saturday night, white for the President's Cup, tan if you're "outdoorsy". Real felt or nothing: the Chinese plastic ones melt in the sun and everyone can tell. The kalpak is for weddings and your uncle. Don't mix them. Ever.
2. The boots
Pointed toe, heel you can hear on the stairs. Snakeskin if you're brave, ostrich if you're rich, "ostrich-look" if you're a student. Nobody's checking.
3. The buckle
Bigger is better. Silver with a carnelian if you want to look old-money Akyel. Gold Aigyr horse if you want free drinks from the girls on the deck (true story).
4. The shirt
Pearl snaps. Check. Unbuttoned to the third button minimum, fourth if you've been to the gym. Under no circumstances a football shirt. This is not Neftchi.
5. The attitude
Lean on the rail. Say "chabandoz" like you know one. Order Chongtor Strong, not Light. When the goat goes in the kazan, shout like it was your cousin who scored.
Bottom line: the horse is optional. The hat is not.