With the current rise in popularity of cowboy boots, the question has arisen: how do you wear a western-style boot without going full cowgirl? Or at least that’s the question that comes to my mind. Full disclosure, I’m a city slicker, so there’s not really an authentic reason for me to wear cowboy boots. And I gather for most folks, there’s not a functional purpose to this boot style. However, the fashionable purpose should be accessible to everyone who wants to put on a western spin on their fall and winter looks this season. Let’s explore how to incorporate the cowboy boot trend while still maintaining your authentic personal style.
I don’t think anyone would argue that Princess Diana is one of the all-time fashion icons of the 20th century. She’s inspired so many with her royal and off-duty style and has been photographed wearing cowboy boots on occasion. Taking a cue from her, I’d style a boot like Frye & Co.’s Irene Boot in cognac with a tucked-in jean and blazer. A straight-leg jean, of course, with a crewneck sweater and a houndstooth blazer, takes the cowboy boot into a preppy aesthetic, which is ironic when you think of the British influence on such an American notion as the cowboy. But that kind of contrast is how to make this trend work in line with your personal everyday aesthetic.
A brown boot also plays against type, but still works, when it’s part of a bohemian look. The boho and cowboy styles have a lot in common: suede, fringe, and independent spirits. So, go ahead and pair the Frye & Co.’s boots with a dress like Three Bird Nest’s Wila Maxi for a free-spirited outfit. Add gold jewelry and a suede (better if it’s fringed) jacket for an even more romantic look.
Continue leaning into the romantic side of the cowboy by pairing a black boot like Ariat’s Heritage R Toe Western Boot with a printed dress. The boots toughen up the dress, while the dress feminizes the boot. Add some polish with a leather belt and silver earrings to further play with contrasting aesthetics. Or go the opposite route of romance and bring some edge to a black boot by wearing it with a favorite band tee and a leather topper with tucked-in jeans. You can also do this with leggings, an oversized tee with a leather biker or bomber style jacket.
If brown and black sound too boring, embrace color with The Sadie boot by Tecovas in olive. The metallic sheen on these boots makes them primed for a party. Wear them with dark flared jeans and a velvet going-out top with gold jewelry. Or go for something more glamorous and pair these boots with Banana Republic Factory’s Godet Mini Dress in burgundy, topped off with a long trench or overcoat for a night on the town.
If jeans and minidresses aren’t up your style alley, then consider taking a cowboy boot to the office. Try a shorter-shafted western boot like Dolce Vita’s Slim Pointed Toe Bootie with a flared trouser and crisp blouse. The pointed toe and flare will work to give you a longer and leaner silhouette. And for this outfit, I like the idea of a tie-front blouse like Mango’s Tie Next Textured Shirt in Chocolate or Sky Blue. The volume and flair of the tie are a kind of nod to Western-style shirts with bigger collars and frills.
If your personal style is already western-inspired, you can still keep your boots on while stepping out of your comfort zone with some of these outfit ideas. If you’re intrigued by western boots but are not in the market to go full cowgirl, then hopefully some of these styling options will inspire you. However, if you’re ready to go full in on the cowboy boot trend, then pick up a curved brim hat, a big buckled belt, and pair up your jeans with a denim jacket, yee haw!
