I Used to Cringe at Cowboy Boots, But These 18 Outfit Ideas Changed My Mind
Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
Tue, 26 Sep 2023
Who What Wear
Giddy up.
Confession time...I used to loathe cowboy boots. I know that's a strong feeling about shoes, but alas, I did. A part of my anti-cowboy boot disposition can be attributed to good-old teenage angst—cowboy boots represented my years of growing up in the West when I felt called to live out my life in bigger cities like New York, London, and Paris. But the other part of my distaste for this boot had to do purely with how they're styled. I should preface this by saying that I do not believe there's a "right" or "wrong" way to wear anything—fashion is all about exploring what feels good for you. However, there are some ways in which the way this particular boot rubs me the wrong way. As snobbish as it may sound, I've concluded over the years that there are ways in which cowboy boots should (and should not) be worn. It's an opinion I reached only after years of living away from my hometown. I've realized that I didn't hate these boots. Instead, I found the way they were styled to be cringe-worthy. It was only after stumbling upon stylish designer versions and unearthing different ways to them that I came around to the idea of cowboy boots. In an effort to share what I've found from that self-refective journey, I've rounded up outfit ideas to show what to wear with cowboy boots. Plus, I've included some items to embrace and avoid when styling this boot style. While you should always wear what makes you feel your best, I've found that these styling rules helped me transform my feelings of grief surrounding this boot into giddiness. Hopefully, these tips can also make you want to buy this boot. So, without further ado, let's get into it...
If we were to turn to the dictionary to look for an embodiment of Western style, it's likely would contain layered-on denim separates and cowboy boots. And while double-denim is trending again when paired with cowboy boots, it can feel a bit too on-theme. Instead of following tropes, try pairing back the look by styling fitted jeans with the shoes. It's still a way to pay homage to the long history of this fashion aesthetic without making it unapproachable for everyday life.
You can't beat this price.
Just because you're skipping on wearing double-denim doesn't mean you can't wear denim booties.
The hardware on these boots goes hard.
If you happen to be dipping your toes into the cowboy boot trend for the first time, it's best to opt for a minimal take on them to ensure it's easier to style.
Wearing Western-inspired apparel like overalls with cowboy boots can come across as costumey. Instead of adhering to the theme, try pairing your boots with a more timeless staple like a mini-skirt. It will not only ensure you show off your boots but will make them feel more elevated.
Ganni just gets it.
You'll feel like a superstar in these boots.
Leave it to Khaite to make the chicest cowboy boots on the market.
Styling tip: if you buy a pair of two-tone cowboy boots, use them as a way to pull together contrasting seperates in the same colors.
As much as we all love our cozy athleisure items, they don't exactly mix with cowboy boots that well. Luckily for us, there's a particularly chic alternative the fashion crowd has been pairing with this boot: tailored separates. From blazers to oversized button-downs to trousers, these more polished pieces add a level of formality to this otherwise casual boot style.
Isabel Marant's cowboy boots remain a perennial favorite among the fashion set.
It's the whip-stitching for me.
These rusty-red suede boots will steal the show, no doubt.
The contrasting leather piping takes these boots from simple to striking.
Cowboy boots may be appropriate for roaming the prairies, but you never want to look like you just came from one. We recommend avoiding the more frilly puff-sleeve dresses associated with cottagecore fashion aesthics and instead embracing more minimal dresses. Whether you pair these boots with a chunky knit maxi dress, sultry slip dress, or black ribbed number, a more approachable everyday item will make these boots feel timeless.
Pair these with a sweaterdress and you've got the perfect fall outfit.
Who said cowboy boots can't be edgy?
Giddy up.
The slightly angled heel on these ankle booties makes this "dated" boot style feel contemporary.
Don't get us wrong; we love fringe-adorned outwear and cow-print coats just as much as the next girl. However, when paired with cowboy boots, the look can feel like a caricature of Western-inspired clothing. Instead of leaning into the whole "wild wild west" thing, pull back the saddles a bit by opting for a simple longline coat. It will not only ensure your cowboy boots stay the focal point of your look, but it's a pairing that will work for chiller days.
The distressed-looking leather on these boots is very aligned with recent trends.
You can pair these with relaxed jeans or tailored trousers.
The sharp angles add a futuristic-feel to this evergreen shoe silhouette.
Made for walkin'.
Tons of prints and colors, in general, can become distracting, especially when paired with cowboy boots. If you want your boots to be the front and center of your outfit, you must avoid wearing any over-the-top items that can take away attention from the main event. One way you can do just that? Opt for simple looks featuring a neutral color palette. It's a failproof way to ensure these boots look fabulous.
Please do yourself a favor and zoom-in to see the stitching on these Mango boots.
Suede cowboy boots? Don't mind if we do.
With silver accessories still popular, these boots are the perfect way to adopt multiple trends. Just be sure to pair them with an all-black look to ensure they stand out.
A moment of silence for the studs on these cowboy boots.
