Time to confess. I used to hate cowboy boots. I know that’s a strong sentiment about shoes, but I did. Teenage angst is partly to blame for my dislike of cowboy boots. Cowboy boots were a symbol of my time growing up in the West, when I wanted to reside in large cities like New York, London, and Paris. But another reason I don’t like these boots is how they look. Before I start, I want to emphasize that I don’t think there is a “right” or “wrong” way to wear anything. Fashion is all about finding what looks nice on you. This sort of boot, on the other hand, just doesn’t sit well with me. It may sound snooty, but I’ve learned throughout the years that there are right and wrong ways to wear cowboy boots. I only came to this conclusion after living away from my homeland for many years.
But I’ve come to terms with the fact that I don’t dislike these boots. I just had to figure out how to wear them in a way that looked good on me. I only started to like cowboy boots after I found beautiful designer versions and learned new ways to wear them. I want to share what I’ve learned on my journey of self-discovery, so I’ve put together some wardrobe ideas for what to wear with cowboy boots. Also, I’ve added things to wear and things to avoid when styling them. You should always wear what makes you feel good, but these styling guidelines helped me turn my sadness over these boots into happiness. I hope these tips make you desire to buy cowboy boots as well. Let’s get started right now.
What not to wear with cowboy boots:
Though styling is always personal, if I had to list some items that I think appear less put together with cowboy boots, I would say fringe outerwear, double denim, overalls, athleisure, frilly puff-sleeve dresses, and excessively bold designs. To learn more about my thoughts and what I suggest wearing in place of cowboy boots, continue reading
Are you supposed to wear jeans over cowboy boots?
Yes, you may pair bootcut or wide-leg jeans with cowboy boots that reach your ankles. Sienna Miller, who was recently spotted in London, is a great illustration of this fashionable pairing. She put together an outfit with ease that included a warm black sweater, stylish black bootcut jeans, and eye-catching black cowboy boots with white stitching. This chic pairing exemplifies how to combine traditional Western characteristics with modern fashion. However, it’s crucial to make sure your entire ensemble stays thoughtful by sticking to a monochromatic style or simple elements in order to preserve an exquisite appearance and prevent a look that feels too thematic or over-the-top Western.
Avoid: Double Denim
Embrace: Fitted Jeans
(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen; @estellepigault; @astyleedit)
Cowboy boots and layered denim outfits are probably what you would envision when you think of conventional Western fashion. Even while double denim is back in style, it can seem a little too on-trend when worn with cowboy boots. Try cutting back the style by pairing the shoes with tailored jeans rather than adhering to clichés. It nonetheless honors the lengthy history of this fashion style without rendering it unsuitable for daily use.
Steve Madden
Albany Western Boot
$160
Avoid: Overalls
Embrace: Miniskirts
(Image credit: @littleblackboots; @francescasaffari; @maryljean)
Wearing clothes that are inspired by the West, such overalls and cowboy boots, might make you look like you’re in a costume. Instead of sticking to the motif, try wearing your boots with a miniskirt, which is a more classic piece of clothing. It will make your boots look better and feel more lifted.
Ganni
Mid Shaft Embroidered Western Boots
$825
Ganni intuitively comprehends the situation.
Marc Fisher LTD
Ander Knee High Boot
$325
If this is your first time trying the cowboy boot trend, it’s better to go with a simple look so that it’s easier to style.
GOLDEN GOOSE
Wish Star Embroidered Distressed Leather Cowboy Boots
$890
These footwear will make you feel like a superstar.
DKNY
Laila-Cowboy Boots
$88
If you acquire a pair of two-tone cowboy boots, you can use them to tie together clothes that are different colors but the same style.
Avoid: Athleisure
Embrace: Tailored Separates
(Image credit: @lefevrediary; @rachelnosco; @taniasarin)
Despite the fact that we all adore our comfortable athleisure attire, it does not necessarily complement cowboy boots. We are fortunate to have a particularly chic alternative that the fashion crowd has been coupling with these boots: tailored separates. These polished pieces, which range from blazers to oversize button-downs to trousers, impart a sense of formality to this otherwise informal boot style.
Isabel Marant
Duerto Western Boot
$990
The periphery is what I like.
Jeffrey Campbell
Dagget Western Boot
$140
Without a doubt, these footwear will be the star of the show.
Sam Edelman
Rylin Western Boot
$245
These boots are elevated from ordinary to extraordinary by the use of contrasting leather braiding.
Avoid: Frilly Puff-Sleeve Dresses
Embrace: Minimalist Dresses
(Image credit: @venswifestyle; @emmanuellek_; @chanelmckinsie)
While cowboy footwear may be suitable for traversing the prairies, it is unnecessary to appear as though you have recently returned from one. I suggest that you refrain from wearing the frilly puff-sleeve dresses that are affiliated with the cottagecore fashion aesthetic and instead opt for minimalist dresses. A more approachable everyday item will ensure that these boots feel timeless, regardless of whether you combine them with a chunky knit maxi dress, sultry slip dress, or black ribbed number.
ZARA
Cowboy Studded Boots
$139
Combine these with a sweaterdress to create the ideal autumn ensemble.
Staud
Western Wally Suede Ankle Boots
$425
The slightly slanted heel on these ankle boots gives this “dated” style of footwear a modern look.
Dolce Vita
Slim Pointed Toe Bootie
$100
You may wear these with either loose jeans or fitted pants.
Avoid: Fringe Outerwear
Embrace: Simple Coats
(Image credit: @gosiaboy; @dinahansen; @ileniatoma_)
I enjoy outerwear with fringes and cow-print coats just as much as the next person. But when you wear it with cowboy boots, it might look like a cartoon of Western-style clothes. Instead of going all out with the Wild West look, tone it down a touch by choosing a classic longline coat. It will not only keep your cowboy boots the main focus of your outfit, but it will also work for days when it’s colder.
Dingo 1969
Hensley Western Boots
$180
These traditional boots are in line with what is popular right now.
Vince Camuto
Biancaa Boots
$249
I am present to discuss this particular shade of blue.
Isabel Marant
Dewina Boots
$850
Let your footwear do the talking.
MANGO
Metallic Pointed Toe Leather Ankle Boots
$229$109
Another wonderful pair of boots for your ankles!
Avoid: Over-the-Top Prints
Embrace: Neutral Colors
(Image credit: @eniswardrobe; @oliviafaeh; @simplytandya)
Cowboy boots can be particularly distracting when worn in conjunction with an abundance of prints and hues. Avoid wearing any over-the-top items that could detract from the primary event if you wish to ensure that your boots are front and center. There is a method by which you can accomplish this. Choose straightforward ensembles that emphasize neutral color schemes. A foolproof method to guarantee that these footwear appear stunning.
Billini
Novena Knee High Western Boot
$100
Designed for walking.
Dingo 1969
Wild Fire Western Boots
$200
These boots are genuinely designed for strolling.
Coperni
Bridge Cowboy Boots
$927$696
These strong corners give this classic shoe shape a modern look.
Alohas
Hudson Shimmer Bicolor Leather Ankle Boots
$280$112
