From the dust of dude ranches to the front rows of fashion week, cowboy-core style has entered its next chapter. What started as a lived reality for many in America’s wide-open West has poured into the mainstream with a new kind of energy: romantic, rugged, and deeply personal. I’ve felt it firsthand—from shopping for a good pair of cowboy boots deep in Australia’s Outback to being awestruck by the rodeo and wrangler fashion on the ranches of Montana’s Wild West. Westernwear isn’t just about style, though, it’s the effortlessly cool and nostalgically-chic spirit that comes with it.
That same spirit has been funneled into fashion’s bloodstream for years now, fueled by popular culture and series like Yellowstone. And with the annual return of free-spirited music festival season, along with California’s new Desert Rodeo event, the Western-inspired trend cycle is evolving. Plus, with the recent debut of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour, cowboy-core fashion has officially gone full gallop and is flooding the streets of major cities around the world. (If you’re a New Yorker, you must have also noticed the surge of cowboy boots clacking on and around the concrete streets.)
What once belonged to ranches out West has entered the runway and given us a fabulously inspired trend that works for many more than one. To help you navigate rodeo-ready looks, whether you’re headed to a ranch weekend, a music festival, a bachelorette trip, or just want to bring a little Western soul to your style, here’s what to pack to do it right.
Where should I shop out West for iconic pieces?
For those unforgettable keepsakes, be sure to shop locally in whatever Western destination you’re visiting. We recommend checking out belts and cowboy hats from the iconic Kemo Sabe in Aspen and some hand-crafted boots from the legendary Allen’s Boots in Austin. Double H Custom Hat Company down in Darby of Montana makes some of the best custom hats in the country. (They even have a showroom with photos of all the celebrities and musicians that have bought from them.) They also make the iconic hats for the Yellowstone series.
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My top picks
Awe-struck by rodeo fashion on a trip to Big Sky, Montana, and fascinated by the local desert-themed shops in Australia’s Northern Territory, I’ve found inspiration in all corners of the world. Luckily, many brands we love are keeping up with the trend: Wrangler has dropped Western-inspired collaborations with country star Lainey Wilson and Texas-based designer Kendra Scott that elevate rodeo style into ready-to-wear fashion. Tecovas continues to refresh its classic boot lineup with trend-forward shapes and colors. And Fyre’s brand new collaboration with Aurate is proof that Western jewelry can be just as swanky and well-made as it is nostalgic.
I recently wore the Wrangler x Yellow Rose graphic tee with a blazer, skirt, and cowgirl boots to the office for a twist on everyday dressing, while the high-rise trouser from the same collaboration pulls it all together with polish. For an off-duty look, the striped Wrangler x Lainey Wilson flare jeans and oversized “Heck Yeah” tee have become my uniform. Tecovas’ Abby boots in black strike that perfect note between tradition and trend. Idyllwind’s fringe boots are made for the cowgirl who thrives in the wild, and the studded flare jeans bring a little rock ‘n’ roll to the rodeo. To top things off, I like adding some statement jewelry, like this Aurate x Frye lasso bolo necklace.
Shirts and dresses
The right dress or top can take your Western look from costume to considered. And there’s a softness threading through this edit: white lace, a bit of crochet, a touch of fringe. Lucky Brand’s embroidered lace tiered maxi dress brings a romantic edge with texture that sways, while Wrangler’s wildflower snap shirt dress balances prairie with polish. Lucchese’s long denim duster reads a good kind of rugged—the kind that you can throw on over anything. And Ariat’s VentTek stretch button-up keeps the tailoring crisp, while ensuring smooth and easy functionality. For something flirtier, rock the halter vest, another pick from Wrangler, and Lulu’s Pamula button-front top. And when a graphic tee’s the move, the “J’Adore Cowboys” shirt hits that sweet spot between playful and stylish.
Breathable bottoms
Especially in warm weather, you’ll want bottoms that can bend, breathe, and still bring the look home. Think flattering cuts and fabrics that can handle dust or square-dancing. Free People’s River Canyon printed mini skirt brings movement without much fuss, while Lulu’s ivory lace tiered maxi skirt leans into a romantic silhouette that lives and breathes cowgirl. The Wrangler x Lainey Wilson boot huggers are made to hug tight and show off your kicks—built for fans in the stands or walking the grounds. For a dressier twist, Lucky’s pleated wide-leg trousers strike the balance between relaxed and refined. And for those wanting a coordinated set, Farm Rio’s Western denim pants—with the matching jacket—make for a head-turning, full-out rodeo ‘fit.
Boots and shoes
Not just made for walking, these boots were made for riding, dancing, and standing tall in dirt, dust, or denim. Tecovas’ Anne boot in scarlet is a bold, wide-calf statement shoe that doesn’t skimp on comfort, while the Marion style brings a refined, horseman edge that’s still ready to stomp. Lucchese’s Rowdy Hornback Caiman boot is extremely elevated—black, textured, and built to be seen. For something light but still tough as nails, Ariat’s Hybrid Ranchwork VentTek boot keeps your feet cool without losing the true Western heart. And if you’re mixing in a bit of rebel with your cowgirl, the Janey Engineer boots from Free People deliver a distressed and road-ready attitude.
Accessories
When styled correctly, accessories are the cherry on top of a great outfit and they can really tell a story. Western brands know this well, and it shows in pieces that are as iconic as they are practical. Bolo ties are back, from the pearl-accented Dolly from Revolve to vintage-inspired silhouettes on Amazon that feel timeless and tough. Gorjana’s Western Parker charm necklace—with a horse charm add-on—is subtle but personal, while Aurate x Frye’s lasso wraps and bolos bring sculptural elegance to the frontier. Belts come in with purpose: cinched, textured, and made to define—Kemo Sabe’s python version and 12th Tribe’s low-rise belt nail that balance. And a well-worn bandana (like the Grand Canyon print or classic paisley) tied at the neck or tossed in your bag is the kind of effortless layer that always rides well. You’ll find that most Western cities, rodeo stands, and some dude ranch shops will have hat or boot accessories to purchase—I’ve found that it’s always the best souvenir. Or, use and shop these boot bracelets from Boot Barn as style inspiration. (Remember the more chains and jewels, the better.)
Cowboy hats
The crown of the look—the best cowboy hats are equal parts attitude and function. They complete your Western look while protecting your eyes and skin from the hot blazing sun. Tecovas’ Cattleman Fur Hat is a forever piece, shaped sharp and worn best with a little dust on it. Wrangler brings the fun with its sparkle band hat in red (a dash of glam that still rides hard) and a suede braid band option for softer, sandier days. Kemo Sabe’s Stetson is another keepsake and pure Western prestige—thoughtfully crafted with high-desert attention to detail. And if you want to switch it up, Boot Barn’s concho set lets you customize your lid like a seasoned rider dressing for the big dance. As for packing these bad boys, I’d say rock them on the plane to save some suitcase space.
Outerwear
When it comes to outerwear, the right layer says a lot. The leather trucker from Lucky Brand means business—tough, timeless, and gets better with age. And the fringe moto jacket is a bold statement piece that goes with anything. For something more casual, go for Reformation’s oversized denim jacket that’s easy to rewear just about anywhere. Revolve’s Vista bomber offers a hint of rodeo-meets-street style, while Free People’s vegan suede jacket brings fringe back in full force.
