Western wear has always been linked to rugged cowboys and ranchers, but the influence of Western styles has more recently infiltrated mainstream fashion. Whether you grew up in the country or not, if you are yearning a little taste of rustic charm in your day-to-day wardrobe, there are plenty of easy ways to work this enduring aesthetic into your daily looks. From classic denim to statement accessories, here are some tips on how you can inject a little of Western style into your everyday look.
Embrace the Power of Denim
Denim is a core component of Western wear and one of the simplest items to work into your daily wardrobe. A classic pair of denim jeans also provides a great base for any Western-inspired outfit. High-waisted, wide-leg, or boot-cut styles all lend an authentic Western feel. For a casual look, wear your denim jeans with a basic blouse or a graphic tee. Dress to impress by pairing them with a fitted top and a statement accessory.
Denim jackets are yet another American clothing classic. A fitted denim jacket with either pearl snap buttons or frayed edges will add just the right amount of rusticness to your outfit. You can layer this over a sundress, a soft sweater, or even a form-fitting blouse for an easygoing look that channels Western without missing the mark.
Western-Chic Tops
And for working Western into your wardrobe, don’t forget the shirts and blouses. A Western shirt is characterized by classic details like snap buttons, pointed collars, and contrast stitching. Available in every fabric from denim to flannel to cotton (and can be fitted), so a casual look can still look polished.
For a more feminine look, try a Western-style blouse with ruffled details, lace trim, or embroidery. These feminine flourishes can offset the earthiness of traditional Western wear, all while preserving the cowgirl swagger we dream of. If you want to be fashion-forward, pair a light and breezy flowy blouse with a high-waist skirt or jeans.
Shoes: The Good Old American Cowboy Boot
No talk about Western wear is complete without cowpoke boots. These iconic boots are perfect to add Texas chic to your outfit! These come in many styles, from leather versions to trendy, colorful boots with elaborate stitching.
While cowboy boots may be noticeable, they are extremely versatile and work well with nearly everything. Wear them with skinny jeans for a classic look, or team them with a dress or skirt for a blend of Western elements and a pretty, feminine silhouette. If you don’t want to go all in on the cowboy boot, ankle boots with Western-inspired details like fringe or embroidery are a solid choice.
Add Some Western Accessories
If you’re not quite ready to double down on Western wear, accessories are a good way to wade into the trend. Western-style belts are a simple way to add a little flair to any ensemble. Choose belts with aged leather work, brass buckles, or even Concho detailing to give your outfit a weathered, vintage vibe.
And last but not least, a statement that can elevate your Western-influenced wardrobe. Large-brimmed hats as cowboy hats or a Royal with an extra Western fedora add elegance and glamour to the casual look. You may also try scarves or bandanas for some color and texture, as these often accompany Western wear.
Layer with Leather
For Western wear, leather is another signature product of the style, and it can pack a punch in your closet. A good leather jacket or vest dresses up an outfit instantly and gives off both edgy and timeless aesthetics. Leather brings depth and richness to your look and therefore works well layered over more austere items such as a T-shirt or button-up shirt.
For something more understated, try a leather bag or a leather belt with decorative metal hardware. These elements add that rugged Western oomph without overpowering the rest of your look.
Experiment with Patterns and Textures
Western wear includes plaid, checks, and animal prints, all patterns that harken to the American West. The plaid shirt is a relatively easy way to tap into that Western vibe without overdosing on the theme. It can be worn as a button-down shirt, a flannel, and even a scarf, and it goes with jeans or skirts for a laid-back, but chic, outfit.
Animal prints, like leopard or snake print, appear in Western-inspired patterns, too. Example while achieving a hint of Western wear while remaining contemporary, is adding these prints onto your accessories—via a pair of boots, a bag or a belt.
Final Thoughts
The key to incorporating Western wear into your everyday wardrobe is to balance rugged, authentic pieces with modern sensibilities. From wearing a pair of cowboy boots to throwing a denim jacket over a floral top or topping off your look with Western-inspired accessories, there are countless ways to incorporate the aesthetics of Western wear while still feeling fresh and stylish. By combining these components with your unique aesthetic, you’ll develop a style that’s equally stylish and operative and introduces a little of the Wild West into your daily apparel.
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