Since the release of Beyoncé’s country album Cowboy Carter, the musician has repeatedly worn Western-inspired looks, including cowboy boots and double denim, that have taken hold in the mainstream fashion world. But she's not the only A-lister embracing the cowgirl aesthetic. Style icons like Bella Hadid, Katie Holmes, and Gisele Bündchen are also favoring Western-leaning trends, like head-to-toe denim, studs, fringe, and leathers.
Rodeo style has also been a source of inspiration across the Spring 2024 runways. Celine championed knee-high cleated boots, Ralph Lauren gave his quintessential Americana ranch style a dose of glam, and at Pharell's Louis Vuitton Men’s Fall 2024 show, there was a bit of everything, from wide-leg jeans tucked into vintage-worn cowboy boots to oversized buckle belts to wide-brim felt hats.
If you're intrigued by the Western trend or consider yourself a pro—but need some guidance on real-life applications—the best place to start is with the staple closet pieces that make a foolproof pairing with your jeans and cowboy boots. Here, Marie Claire chats with two fashion experts who have been following the trend closely—Revolve Fashion Director Divya Mathur and Nordstrom Associate Fashion Director Linda Cui Zhang. Here's their advice on mastering the aesthetic.
How to Style the Best Jeans for Cowboy Boots
The Tailored POV
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Dress up your laid-back jeans and cowboy boots with a sharp tailored top.
The combination of jeans and cowboy boots is often categorized as casual, but there are ways to give your cowgirl getup an elevated twist. "For more of a country chic look, I like to style a tailored top with mid-rise straight-leg jeans [flared jeans work too] layered over cowboy boots," says Mathur.
The Hybrid Pairing
Create a sense of contrast with a sophisticated blazer and a pair of relaxed jeans.
Blend city and country aesthetics by throwing on a refined blazer with everyday basics. "For more of a "city Western vibe," I like to wear an oversized blazer, a T-shirt, and straight-leg jeans tucked into a pair of cowboy boots," says Mathur. If an untucked look is more your vibe, opt for jeans with a longer hem that drapes over your cowboy boots.
The Straightforward Approach
Nothing says cowgirl like a suede top paired with jeans and cowboy boots.
A brown suede top and a pair of jeans organically draped over flat-soled cowboy boots have a soft Western appeal. "I recommend avoiding costume-like accessories—such as big buckle belts or fringe bags—to keep the look elevated," says Mathur.
The Feminine Twist
This outfit proves that styling options are truly endless when it comes to jeans and cowboy boots.
"Softer tops with traditionally feminine details—like lace— juxtapose nicely against the hardwearing look of denim and boots," says Zhang. Try straight-leg jeans tucked into black suede cowboy boots, and if you need an extra layer, slip on a lightweight spring jacket that still keeps the soft details a central focal point.
The Statement Accessory
Style two-tone cowboy boots peaking out beneath simple, dark wash jeans.
When your outfit is subdued, try a bolder accessory like a pair of two-toned cowboy boots to let your eye-catching footwear have a moment in the spotlight. Try a neutral top or a blazer and a pair of dark wash jeans alongside them.
The Styling Hack
For a fashion-forward appeal, try tucking your jeans into your cowboy boots.
According to Zhang, some of the best styling hacks for wearing jeans with cowboy boots exist on the runway. "I’m inspired by the 'jean boot tuck,' showcased during Louis Vuitton's Fall 2024 Men’s show. To achieve that smooth transition, fold the hem of your jeans into your socks before pulling on your cowboy boots," she notes.
The Warm Weather Swap
If you're dealing with boiling-hot temperatures, swap your long jeans with a pair of denim shorts.
"With warmer weather on the way, I’m excited to explore denim shorts paired with cowboy boots," says Zhang. Since the shorts and boots are the focal point, I recommend minimalist styles for the rest of the outfit," she adds. To stay cool, style your look with a classic white tank top.
Expert Shopping Advice to Choose the Best Jeans for Any Cowboy Boots
- Silhouette
“A straight-leg silhouette is ideal for styling cowboy boots,” says Mathur. Unlike slim jeans, straight-leg jeans are often wide enough to fit over the shaft of a standard cowboy boot. “If you want to tuck your jeans into cowboy boots, the looser silhouette of a straight leg jean also allows for a bit of gathering around the knees and calf, which feels more modern than the look of a skinny jean,” she notes.
“The classic straight-leg jeans with a 15-inch leg opening seems to be a sweet spot for our customers,” says Zhang. She also notes that shoppers should consider denim bottoms with a longer inseam and a wider leg opening for an even roomier fit. Wide-leg jeans have a boxier structure around the leg and are especially useful for mid-calf or knee-high cowboy boots.
- Inseam Length
Inseam is a matter of personal preference, but Zhang notes that denim pants with longer inseams tend to be more flattering with cowboy boots. "Heeled cowboy boots give longer jeans a boost, and the peekaboo effect of cowboy boots under longer-cut jeans is a nice detail," she says.
However, there's not always a one-size-fits-all approach. “If you're opting for an ankle cowboy boot, a cropped jean will perfectly show them off,” Mathur explains.
Meet the Experts
Formerly an accountant with a career in merchandise planning, Linda Cui Zhang joined Nordstrom in 2021 as a buyer and is currently the Associate Fashion Director. Originally from North Carolina, Linda resides in New York City.
Divya Mathur is the fashion director at Revolve Group. Mathur has many years of buying and merchandising experience in the luxury and contemporary sector. She has a proven track record of leading transformational growth across both digital and physical stores for prominent global brands including Saks Fifth Avenue, Shopbop, and Michael Kors.
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