How to Style Cowboy Boots Without Going Full Western
Embrace the footwear without looking like a rodeo extra.
These days, the fashion crowd is fixated on cowboy boot outfits, but not in the kitschy way you might expect. Savvy style icons—particularly celebrities—are putting contemporary twists on the Western-inspired look, bringing about fresh sartorial formulas that are actually wearable beyond any hay-filled horse stable.
“Bella Hadid is one of many A-listers leading the cowboy boot comeback,” says styling duo Danielle and Alix, who have dressed several clients in the increasingly popular shoe trend. “Hadid often pairs her rancher boots with vintage mini dresses and low-rise leather pants cinched with double belts,” they note.
Other celebs like Katie Holmes, Emily Ratajkowski, and Kendall Jenner have also championed the cowboy boots movement, styling their pairs with casual separates like straight-leg jeans, laid-back leather jackets, and snug sweaters. And, of course, we can’t forget about Beyoncé, who has fully embraced this rodeo-ready look since the release of her Spring '24 country album Cowboy Carter. Take a peek through Queen B’s style file, and you’ll find cowboy boots worn alongside embellished blazers and floor-sweeping trench coats.
But Danielle and Alix also explain that cowboy boots have flourished beyond celebrity circles. “During the Fall 2024 fashion week season, Isabel Marant showcased a classic suede alternative that we love due to its [wearable] and simple silhouette,” says the duo. Similar styles popped up across the runways of Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren, where they were coordinated with tailored trousers and fringed layers.
The moral of this fashion story is that cowboy boot outfits are here to stay—and can be styled seamlessly with the rest of your wardrobe with just a few easy outfit formulas. So why not take them for a ride? We tap the experts to nail down some practical ways to do just that.
An Over-the-Pond Spin
This fashion week showgoer seems to have been inspired by Princess Diana, who practically invented the boot tuck styling hack.
Channel your inner Princess Di with this outfit that embodies a strong sense of English country style. For those who don’t know, Dianna often tucked her trousers into cowboy boots for off-duty occasions. Follow suit and complete the look with a houndstooth blazer and a knit turtleneck.
The Streamlined Approach
Although dressing up a pair of cowboy boots might seem daunting, it doesn't have to be.
“If versatility is your main priority, try a pair of black cowboy boots that will pair nicely with a range of outfits,” says Danielle and Alix. For an effortless look, consider wearing your shoes with easygoing pieces like a simple T-shirt, an oversized blazer, and a pair of roomy wide-leg jeans.
Legs Out
Dare to show some skin with thigh-grazing garments that make a bold statement.
Temperatures permitting, slip into a leg-baring mini skirt that will allow your cowboy boots to take center stage. Balance out your look with a billowing puffer jacket for a bit of extra warmth.
Posh and Polished
If you want to turn up the sartorial volume, look no further than this sleek getup.
While cowboy boots have a casual reputation, Danielle and Alix share routes you can take to give your outfit an elevated boost. “A flowy maxi dress and a leather layer will add a hint of sophistication,” says the duo. You can also choose to wear a blouse and a slip skirt (as seen above) to achieve the same refined appeal.
The Unexpected Path
Barn jackets and red accessories have made a surprising return.
“One of the best ways to make cowboy boots feel more trendy—and less costume-like—is to choose an outfit that doesn’t seem predictable,” says Danielle and Alix. So, instead of pairing your shoes with a Canadian tuxedo, go for a denim barn jacket.
Harvest Hues
With fall upon us, it’s officially time to dress in warm tones.
Nothing says autumn quite like shades of brown, orange, and black. Take on this warm and inviting color palette by teaming a pair of coal-colored cowboy boots with a copper-toned blazer and a glossy autumnal-colored handbag.
Keep It Cropped
Ask any style expert, and they’ll tell you that a plush cardigan is a wardrobe essential.
Danielle and Alix explain that a cropped cardigan should be a non-negotiable item in every cold-weather wardrobe. Pair this cozy top with rodeo boots and a midi or maxi-length skirt to give it a cowgirl spin.
It’s All About the Jeans
The jeans-and-cowboy-boots combo is truly unmatched.
Yes, specific jeans , particularly oversized styles, look best with cowboy boots. “We recommend wearing denim bottoms with hemlines that hang right above your cowboy boots,” said Danielle and Alix. Test-drive this style with a button-down shirt and a boxy jacket.
Bermuda Shorts Strike Again
These lengthy shorts aren’t going anywhere (at least until temperatures grow unbearably cold).
And just like that, Bermuda shorts have made their way into fall. When styled with calf-length cowboy boots, a crew neck T-shirt, and a double-breasted coat, these trendy bottoms can actually exist beyond warm summer days.
The Late-Night Look
Go ahead and pin this easy-to-style outfit to your Western-inspired mood board.
Looking to dive into the horse-girl trend without making a huge splash? Ease into things by sporting your cowboy boots with a flattering blazer dress. As for accessories, top off your look with a burgundy leather tote bag.
Meet the Fashion Experts
Celebrity styling duo Danielle and Alix specialize in styling red carpet and special events, street style looks, editorial shoots, and brand campaigns. They're based in Los Angeles and New York.
