Western fashion, as of late, has only been growing. It doesn’t matter if you want to go all out cowboy or just add a few pieces to your closet; here’s some advice on how to wear Western wear and look stylish.
Western Shirts
A classic Western shirt is one of the simplest ways to add Western wear to your closet. These shirts are notoriously button-down with snap buttons, have pointy yokes, and have intricate embroidery. Traditional plaid is still en vogue, but contemporary styles come in an array of colors and designs – streamlined blacks and whites or loud, patterned fabrics. A perfectly sized Western shirt worn with jeans or a skirt can look great on anyone.
For a dressed-up take, tuck your western shirt into high-waisted trousers or try styling with a midi skirt. And don’t be afraid to mix textures either — denim with leather or suede will add a luxe feel to the rugged aesthetic.
Denim, Denim, Denim
Denim is obviously central to Western wear, but its durability and practicality also lend themselves well to today’s fashion. Worn in anything from a denim jacket to a pair of jeans, it really is that essential item that everyone should own. A good pair of worn-in denim jeans with a slight flare looks great with a Western shirt, or a contemporary choice can comprise the skinny jean or the more slick style of cut.
For a modern update, try mixing and matching your denim pieces. Chase that Western wear with a bit of a more polished vibe by pairing a look’s signature pieces with something more polished: a distressed denim jacket with a leather skirt, rough-edged jeans with a blazer.
From Cowboy Boots to Loafers
Western wear wouldn’t be the same without the cowboy boot. These famed shoes are making a rather comeback in style, and it’s even more basic than ever to put on them in a way that uses contemporary fashion. Classic leather cowboy boots are the perfect footwear to complement dresses, skirts, skinny jeans, or leggings. Opt for a flowy dress with boots for an easy, rustic feel, ideal for boho.
Or you can test-drive the look with a pair of western-style ankle boots. In the picture of these short ankle boots above, you can see the aesthetic elegance these type of shoes often have – nice enough to look ‘smart’ whilst still balancing that line of what the Wild West would have worn. Come warmer weather, cowboy-inspired boots can be paired with shorts or a miniskirt to achieve a cool, casual look.
Western Vest or Jacket
Top it off with a suede or leather vest or jacket for an added layer of Western pizzazz. A well-made suede vest, with fringe accents, can take a basic outfit to a whole new level. Wear it with high-waist trousers and a tucked-in shirt, or throw it on with jeans and a leather jacket — you don’t live on the prairie, but the Western-chic look definitely does.
Some of the classic Western look elements, such as American fringe, decorative stitching, and embroidery, are also influencing modern fashion’s take on the jacket with a classic cut. The key to styling them is balance. Wear them with simple, minimalist pieces so they don’t compete with your outfit.
Add Jewelry That Speaks to the West
Western wear is famous for its unique accessories. Accessorize subtly with Western-inspired jewelry too — thin silver statement pieces, turquoise rings and bolo ties. A chunky belt buckle can make a pair of plain jeans and a tee seem Western chic and a wide-brimmed hat can transform even the most casual of combinations into something special.
Juxtaposing multiple styles of jewelry is also how you make a scene. A pendant necklace plus long silver earrings can express a modern take on the Western trend, for instance. More complicated design belts with studs can also be worn with dresses and pants for a stylish, western look.
Different Patterns
Whereas old-school Western-wear might have been solid-colored and flannel, now fashion has gone more full-tilt with the print and pattern. Add a bit of modern flare to your Western look with trendy prints such animal, floral, or geometric. A Western style jacket in a bold print will bring your look right up to date and add some of-the-moment style.
Use Other Styles
The best ones to blend Western wear with modern clothes one of the best ways to add western wear into modern fashion is to mix and match with a few other styles. Whether it’s a Western shirt and a cool leather jacket, a cowboy hat with a girly dress, or cowboy boots and a pair of tailored trousers, the mix of textures and styles will bring new life to whatever you put together.
Modern fashion doesn’t have to mean a full cowboy look, but Western wear in an urban wardrobe. Instead, play with individual pieces to create a look that feels balanced, relevant, and of the moment.
Western wear is a fun and interesting way to experiment with contemporary fashion. And by mixing traditional with modern, you can incorporate some Western elements into your everyday look easily. Whether you’re into a cowboy-life look head to toe or are just looking for a hint of the Wild West, it’s safe to say western wear can add that rough and refined feel to any outfit.