by MARSHALL BONE
If your only reference for the Cowgirl Style comes from old Western flicks, styling cowboy boots can feel like you’re playing dress-up instead of getting dressed. But once you get past the costume-y connotations, you’ll discover that cowgirl boots are actually quite versatile and pair well with many of your everyday pieces, not just flannel shirts and fringe jackets. Intrigued? Here are 8 modern ways to style this power accessory that still nod to its Western roots without tipping into full-on costume territory.
1. With a Suede Mini Skirt and Ruffled Blouse
Suede and soft ruffles are classic Cowgirl Style elements, making this pairing a foolproof way to tap into the trend without going over the top. The suede mini skirt adds rich texture and warmth, while the ruffled blouse brings in just the right amount of playfulness.
2. With a Vintage Graphic Tee and Jorts
You’d never think of pairing cowboy boots for women with vintage graphic tees and jorts, which is exactly why this look feels so unexpectedly fresh and modern. It’s a little rebellious, a little ‘90s grunge, and very fashion-influencer coded. To make it even edgier, add one of those grunge crossbody bags with rivet details along with a leather belt at the waist.
3. With a Biker Jacket and Skinny Jeans
Leather, denim, and cowboy boots—it really doesn’t get more Western than this. You might not find biker jackets in a cowboy’s wardrobe, but the rugged edginess fits right in. Swap it out for a bomber jacket or a motorsport jacket if you’re feeling extra cool. For the jeans, keep it classic with a medium-wash and high-waist pair so there’s a visual break between the boots and the jacket.
4. With an Oversized Shirt and Denim Shorts
If you want your boots to hog the spotlight, nothing would make them pop more than a plain white oversized button-up shirt and relaxed denim shorts duo. A softly creased linen shirt would make the whole outfit feel a little more nonchalant. For extra style cred, throw on some tinted sunglasses, a retro watch, and gold hoop earrings.
5. With An All-Denim Fit
If you’re after that classic Americana feel, go full denim. A denim corset top paired with matching straight-leg jeans is undeniably current, but a denim jumpsuit works just as well. You can also switch things up with denim shorts or a denim skirt. If all of this feels too much, you can just go for a denim mini dress for an easy outfit that still hits the mark.
6. With a Crop Top and a Long Skirt
Here’s another look that’s soft on the eyes and makes your boots the star of the show. A simple crop top and a midi or maxi skirt contrast beautifully with the sharpness of the boots for an outfit that’s feminine yet rugged. Look for a flowy skirt with tiers, like the white maxi skirt trend that’s going viral. If you prefer A-line silhouettes, a side-slit is non-negotiable for showing off your boots.
7. With a Fitted Romper
A fitted romper is a must-have piece for every style lover, and the best way to style one is with cowboy boots! Think a solid-colored piece that hugs your curves or gently flares out from the waist down. Then you’ll want a leather disc belt that adds more dimension to the look, cinches your waist, and matches your boots. Do you see the vision?
8. With a Flowy Boho Dress
This loose and flowy fashion favorite outfit is ripped straight from a coastal cowgirl’s lookbook. Flowy dresses and cowboy boots are practically a match made in heaven, with how well they complement each other. Whether you go with one of those beach-must-have linen maxi dresses or bright sundresses, the boots will bring just enough visual excitement to make it feel contemporary.
Wrapping Up
The beauty of cowboy boots is that they can work with almost anything, as long as you know how to combine different textures and aesthetics. The best way to keep it cool, not costume-y, is to avoid going full Western. For example, denim and cowboy boots feel like an effortless combo. But throw in a cowboy hat and leather jewelry, and suddenly you’re dressed up for a Halloween party. So follow these tips by heart and you’ll be ready to strut in those boots.
Marshall Bone is a writer, copy strategist and all-around stylish guy who has been following trends in GQ for more than two decades. Voted best-dressed both his junior and senior year, Bone has continued this legacy and can be found covering various topics from men’s fashion to self care and grooming. He enjoys reading and is based in the greater Los Angeles area.
