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Western fashion is not just a trend, it is a timeless and classic way of dressing that feels forever cool. However, we have been seeing a new wave of cowboy-inspired garbs, both on and off the runways, that have inspired us to pepper our wardrobes with rodeo-approved accessories and ready-to-wear items. Whether it’s Beyonce’s “Texas Hold ‘Em” single release (the unofficial theme song of the movement) or Bella Hadid’s horse girl style evolution, embracing the country mood feels very of-the-moment.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Western-Inspired Fashions:
- The Fringe Jacket: Zara fringed leather jacket, $259
- The Rodeo-Ready Jeans: Levi’s 501 Original chaps, $108
- The Cowboy Hat: Brixton El Paso cowboy hat, $129
- The Western Belt: B-Low The Belt Bri Bri waist belt, $164
- The Cowboy Boots: Reformation Otto mini Western boots, $398
- The Denim Skirt: Mango denim midi-skirt, $50
- The Prairie Dress: Ulla Johnson Eden printed midi dress, $490
- The Western Shirt: Cos oversized denim western shirt, $135
Louis Vuitton’s fall/winter 2024 men’s show solidified the trend’s revival on the runway. The collection featured both men’s and women’s looks, chock-full of rancher-inspired gear, such as embroidered shirting, head-to-toe denim, bolo ties, and yes—even chaps. Later, during the women’s presentations, the trickle effect was clear, notably in Paris. Hybrid fringed pants at Chloé, studded leather at Isabel Marant, and Western-style shirts at Molly Goddard solidified that Western wear is here to stay.
The hero item of the season though was without doubt the fringe jacket, which got tons of traction on the fall 2024 runway at Coach (which featured many looks styled throughout). We also spotted quite a few on the street style set throughout fashion month, too. However, when it comes to the full look, there are a few more pieces that you must consider as well. Denim tops and midi skirts, cowboy hats, studded belts are all on our list. And no one has embraced the cowboy boot trend quite like Emily Ratajkowski, who regularly steps out in variations on the theme, mixing them with her signature, downtown style—whether that be a slit skirt and oversized, leather jacket or a mini slip dress.
Below, we round up the eight best western fashion trends to incorporate into your wardrobe, stat—riding skills not required.
The Fringe Jacket
Nothing captures the Western spirit quite like a fringe jacket. Whatever your style preference, there is one to fit your needs. You can go cropped with Re/Done’s shrunken version, tailored with a blazer style by All Saints, or oversized with relaxed iterations from Coach, Found, or Zara. Keeping with a neutral color palette is traditional, but something about a lighter beige shade feels truly spring-like for the season ahead. All you need is a good pair of jeans and boots and you will be ready to giddy up!
The Rodeo-Ready Jeans
No-frills denim in a straight-leg, dark wash is a no-brainer (we love this simple pair from Helmut Lang), but for those who are open to experimentation, try leaning into Western-inspired denim with a little extra flair. Whether that be embellishments like a studded pair from Madewell, Still Here’s cult-favorite, cut-out style (appropriately named the Cowgirl), or chap-inspired takes from Levi’s and Agolde, these will all feel very at home on the range. Bonus points—each of these pair amazingly with a simple, white T-shirt.
The Cowboy Hat
If there’s one thing to bring your entire Western wardrobe together, it’s a chic cowboy hat. While true cowboys and cowgirls will go for felt versions, like this one from Gigi Burris or Brixton that channels Ms. Hadid, cowboy hats made from straw and raffia are on the rise for the warmer months ahead. Whether in the countryside, city streets, music festivals, or the beach, this is one accessory to tip your hat to.
The Western Belt
Accessorizing your rodeo wear with a festive Western belt is a must. While the belt loop matters, it’s really all about the belt buckle here. Etched hardware in silver or pewter feels the freshest at the moment. You can keep things clean and classic with something sleek from B-Low The Belt or a waist style from Saint Laurent, while Khaite’s studded Benny in a dusty brown suede is a newer reinterpretation of its bestselling style.
The Cowboy Boot
Without a doubt, the cowboy boot is having a major moment right now with everyone slipping into the Western style, from celebrities to street style stars. Classic black pairs from Paris Texas and Sonora are similar to your go-to black boots for spring, but with the volume turned way up. Off-white or suede versions from Isabel Marant and Anthropologie pair sweetly with printed floral or maxi dresses this spring.
The Denim Midi Skirt
The denim midi skirt is still going strong for spring, and it’s no surprise that their roots are entirely country. Hitting just below the knee, denim midi skirts are polished and have a more mature vibe than the mini. Take your pick from A-line, slitted versions, or straight-cut in every wash imaginable—from Khaite’s light blue to Max Mara’s dark-rinse. Or invest in a couture-inspired option from Chloé, with stunning seam details and a Broderie anglaise trim.
The Prairie Dress
Prairie dresses add a feminine touch to your otherwise masculine, Western wardrobe. Floral and paisley prints are essential to mastering the trend, and these beauties from Dôen, Ulla Johnson, and Etro hit that sweet spot. Whether a springy, light-colored print is your style du jour, or you prefer something dark and moody, pair with a leather, cowboy boot to truly take the trend to the next level.
The Western Shirt
Often the denim shirt comes to mind when speaking of classic, Western shirting. Something with traditional front pockets and curved, yoke placement, like these options from Gap and Levi’s, are forever staples. But there is something super special about a change in fabrication—whether that’s Bode’s vintage-inspired viscose and cotton, Dorso’s silk bandana iteration, or RRL’s embroidered, cotton and linen-blend.