by Sofía Calzetti
Western fashion isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a timeless, classic style that remains effortlessly cool. Recently, we’ve noticed a resurgence of cowboy-inspired attire on and off the runways, prompting us to infuse our wardrobes with rodeo-ready accessories and ready-to-wear pieces. From B eyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em” single (unofficially the anthem of this movement) to Bella Hadid’s evolution into horse girl chic, embracing the country vibe feels refreshingly current.
The revival of this trend was cemented at Louis Vuitton’s Fall/Winter 2024 men’s show, where rancher-inspired pieces like embroidered shirts, head-to-toe denim, bolo ties, and even chaps took center stage. The trend trickled down to the women’s shows as well, most notably in Paris, with fringe pants at Chloé, studded leather at Isab el Marant, and Western-style shirts at Molly Goddard all underscoring that Western wear is here to stay.
The standout piece this season? The fringe jacket. It made a splash on Coach’s Fall 2024 runway and was a street style favorite throughout fashion month. But to truly nail the look, there are a few other key pieces you should consider. Think denim tops and midi skirts, cowboy hats, and studded b elts. And let’s not forget Emily Ratajkowski, who’s become the poster child for the cowboy boot trend, pairing them with everything from slit skirts and oversized leather jackets to mini slip dresses.
The Fringe Jacket Nothing embodies the Western spirit quite like a fringe jacket. No matter your style preference, there’s a fringe jacket that’s perfect for you. Opt for a cropped version from Re/Done, a tailored blazer style by All Saints, or a relaxed, oversized version from Coach, Found, or Zara. While traditional neutral colors are always in style, a lighter beige hue feels especially spring-ready. Pair it with jeans and boots, and you’re all set to ride into the season.
Rodeo-Ready Jeans Straight-leg, dark- wash denim is a foolproof choice (we love the simplicity of Helmut Lang’s offering), but if you’re feeling adventurous, try a Western-inspired pair with a bit of flair. Think studded jeans from Madewell, Still Here’s cult-favorite cut-out style aptly named “The Cowgirl,” or chap-inspired designs from Levi’s and Agolde. These jeans pair perfectly with a simple white T-shirt, bringing a touch of the Wild West to your everyday look.
The Cowboy Hat A chic cowboy hat is the finishing touch that ties your entire Western wardrobe together. Traditional- lists might opt for felt versions like those from Gigi Burris or Brixton (inspired by Bella Hadid), but straw and raffia hats are rising in popularity for the warmer months ahead. Whether you’re strolling through the countryside, navigating city streets,
or hitting up a music festival, this is the accessory that’ll have you tipping your hat in style.
The Cowboy Boot Cowboy boots are having a major moment, with everyone-
from celebrities to street style stars embracing the Western style. Classic black pairs from Paris Texas and Sonora are akin to your go-to black boots for spring, but with a bold, Western twist. Off-white or suede versions from Isabel Marant and Anthropologie are perfect for pairing with printed floral or maxi dresses this spring.
The Western Belt No rodeo-ready outfit
is complete without a festive Western belt. While the belt loop matters, the real star here is the belt buckle. Etched hardware in silver or pewter feels particularly fresh this season. Keep it sleek with a simple design from B-Low The Belt or a waist-cinching option from Saint Laurent. For a modern twist on a classic, Khaite’s studded Benny belt in dusty brown suede offers a fresh take on this must-have accessory.
