Dave Pierce | Calgary’s Best Dressed 2025

by Chris Landry

Dave Pierce holding a conducting baton and wearing a jumpsuit with arm tassels and sparkly ankle boots. — Photo by Jared Sych. Jumpsuit custom made by House of David Style (the jumpsuit along with the boots were part of a prototype costume for a Las Vegas Liberace tribute Pierce was the composer for); Collection of pins from Calgary Olympics ‘88, Calgary Stampede 1912, Alberta ‘75, and in memory of Jim Button; boots Lee’s daytime boots by House of David Style; baton from the Hollywood Bowl, used to conduct orchestras around the world for 31 years, including Calgary Stampede’s Grandstand Show.

What do you want your style choices to say about you?

I wear what I feel before I consider what’s expected. Some days that means dressing for joy. Other days it’s armour. Always, it’s homage: to mentors, stage legends and my late mom — who unknowingly shaped the silhouette of my spirit. Style, to me, is a language we speak before we say hello. And, in my 50s, I’m here to tell you — there’s no rulebook for legs like mine. Trailblazer? I’ll take it.

What is your favourite Calgary event of the year?

The Grandstand Show at the Calgary Stampede. And yes, I’m a little biased — I’ve composed the score for over 30 years. But the real thrill is watching people show up with fresh takes on Western glam. I say, “Make it a ritual never to repeat an outfit.” Fashion should stampede, too.