I never thought I’d know how to wear cowboy boots, let alone even own a pair, as an adult. To me, they always felt like a costume and inauthentic to my personal style. That changed after I visited Nashville, where I laid eyes upon the metallic patchwork embroidered leather, brushed silver studs, and star-shaped cutouts on a pair of cowboy boots from Old Gringo. I was so enchanted by every stitch that I sacrificed a sizable chunk of my paycheck at the time to have them—and it was one of the best decisions I ever made for my closet.
Our favorite cowboy boots, at a glance
Free People New Frontier Western Boots
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Luxmuwa Snakeskin Ankle Boots
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Not only were they 100% worth the purchase for how often I wear them, they’re also the most complimented article of clothing I own. My pair are certainly not everyone’s taste, but the best part about cowboy boots is that among all of the different iterations, there’s undoubtedly a design for everyone. Whether you prefer leather or suede, a taller shaft or an ankle bootie, a classic color or something fun and flashy, there are endless permutations of the tried-and-true footwear, and they’re a great outlet to infuse some personality into any outfit without losing any functionality.
It can seem daunting to figure out how to wear cowboy boots, but they’re a surprisingly versatile item that can amplify your wardrobe beyond the typical “skinny jeans and a cowboy hat” styling. The Western shoe layers well with everything from jeans to miniskirts. Maybe it’s wrong-shoe theory, but cowboy boots are one of the few pieces that fit comfortably into nearly any genre of fashion.
For a simple and well-made pair, boot brands like Tecovas and Frye have dozens of classic styles, while Dingo 1969 and Brother Vellies have beautiful embroidery and unique designs that are sure to stand out in any setting. Ahead, read on for some of the coolest outfit ideas using cowgirl boots, styled with pieces straight from your closet.
How to wear cowboy boots with jeans
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