What to Wear with Cowboy Boots: Tips and Ideas
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
As a lover of cowboy boots, I know firsthand how versatile and stylish they can be. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual for a weekend brunch, cowboy boots can elevate any outfit. But the question remains: what should you wear with cowboy boots?
The answer is simple: almost anything! Cowboy boots can be paired with a variety of outfits, from jeans and a t-shirt to a flowy summer dress. The key is to find the right balance between western-inspired pieces and modern fashion trends.
One of my favorite ways to wear cowboy boots is with a pair of skinny jeans and a flowy blouse. This creates a perfect balance between the fitted jeans and the loose top, while the boots add a touch of western flair. For a more dressed up look, try pairing your cowboy boots with a midi skirt and a tucked-in blouse. This creates a sophisticated, yet playful vibe that’s perfect for a night out with friends.
Choosing the Right Cowboy Boots
When it comes to cowboy boots, there are many options to choose from. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect pair:
Selecting the Material
Cowboy boots are typically made from leather, but there are many different types of leather to choose from. Full-grain leather is the most durable and highest quality leather available, but it is also the most expensive.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider top-grain leather. Synthetic materials like vinyl or rubber are also available, but they won’t have the same durability or aesthetic appeal as leather.
Choosing the Right Style
There are many different styles of cowboy boots to choose from, including traditional, western, and fashion. Traditional cowboy boots are designed for function and durability, while western cowboy boots have more decorative elements like stitching and embroidery. Fashion cowboy boots are designed to make a statement and add flair to your outfit. Choose a style that fits your needs and personal style.
Sizing and Fit
When it comes to cowboy boots, sizing and fit are crucial. Cowboy boots should fit snugly around the foot and ankle, with a little bit of room in the toe box. The heel should also fit snugly and not slip up and down while walking.
Keep in mind that cowboy boots can take some time to break in, so don’t be alarmed if they feel a little tight at first. If you’re unsure about your size, it’s always a good idea to try on multiple sizes and styles to find the perfect fit.
Overall, choosing the right cowboy boots comes down to personal preference and needs. Keep these tips in mind when shopping for your next pair of boots to ensure that you find the perfect fit and style for you.
What to Wear with Cowboy Boots
Jeans and Denim
Cowboy boots and jeans are a match made in fashion heaven. Pair your boots with a classic pair of blue jeans for a casual, yet stylish look. For a more polished look, opt for a pair of skinny jeans that can be tucked into your boots. If you prefer a looser fit, choose bootcut or flare jeans that will fall over your boots.
When it comes to denim, don’t be afraid to experiment with different washes and textures. Light wash jeans can look great with brown boots, while dark wash jeans pair well with black boots. Distressed or ripped jeans can add a touch of edge to your outfit.
Skirts and Dresses
Cowboy boots can add a touch of western charm to any skirt or dress. For a casual look, pair your boots with a flowy midi skirt or a bohemian-style maxi dress. For a more formal occasion, try a fitted pencil skirt or a tailored shirt dress.
When it comes to choosing the right length, keep in mind that your boots should be visible. A good rule of thumb is to choose a skirt or dress that falls just above or below your knees.
Shorts and Capris
Shorts and capris are a great way to show off your cowboy boots during the warmer months. For a casual look, pair your boots with denim shorts or cutoffs. For a more polished look, try a pair of tailored shorts or cropped pants.
When styling shorts or capris, make sure the hemline falls above your boots. This will create a balanced and flattering silhouette.
Tops and Shirts
When it comes to tops and shirts, keep it simple. A basic t-shirt or blouse can look great with cowboy boots. For a more western-inspired look, try a denim or chambray shirt.
When choosing a top, keep in mind the proportions of your outfit. If you’re wearing a flowy skirt, opt for a more fitted top. If you’re wearing fitted jeans, try a looser, more relaxed top.
Accessories
When it comes to accessories, less is more. A simple leather belt can add a touch of western charm to your outfit. Avoid overly flashy jewelry or accessories that will detract from your boots.
If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your outfit, try a scarf or bandana tied around your neck. This can add a touch of personality to your outfit without overpowering your boots.
Styling Tips
As a cowboy boot enthusiast, I have found that these boots can be incredibly versatile and can be worn with a variety of outfits. Here are some of my styling tips for wearing cowboy boots:
Casual Looks
For a casual look, pair your cowboy boots with some skinny jeans and a graphic tee. You can also wear them with shorts and a tank top during the summer months. If you want to add some extra flair, throw on a denim jacket or a flannel shirt.
Another option for a casual look is to wear your cowboy boots with a maxi dress or a flowy skirt. This creates a bohemian vibe that is perfect for a music festival or a day out with friends.
Formal Looks
Cowboy boots can also be dressed up for formal occasions. Pair them with a midi or maxi dress for a chic, country-inspired look. You can also wear them with a pantsuit or a blazer for a more professional outfit.
When dressing up with cowboy boots, it’s important to choose a pair that is more dressy than casual. Look for boots with a sleek design and minimal embellishments, such as a simple stitched design or a pointed toe.
Western-Inspired Looks
If you want to fully embrace the western-inspired look, pair your cowboy boots with a denim skirt and a plaid shirt. You can also wear them with a fringe jacket or a suede vest for a more bohemian vibe.
When creating a western-inspired look, it’s important to balance out the western elements with more modern pieces. For example, pair your cowboy boots with a leather jacket or a statement necklace to add some edge to your outfit.
Remember, the key to styling cowboy boots is to have fun and experiment with different looks. Whether you’re going for a casual or formal look, cowboy boots can add a unique touch to any outfit.
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning and Conditioning
Proper cleaning and conditioning of your cowboy boots is essential to maintain their longevity and appearance. I recommend using a soft-bristled brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of your boots before applying any leather cleaner. Be sure to brush all of the crevices, such as embroidery, patches, and pull straps.
After cleaning, apply a high-quality leather conditioner to a soft cloth and rub it gently into the leather surface of your cowboy boots. This helps to keep the leather supple and prevent it from drying out and cracking.
If you have oil-impregnated boots, you may want to use a layer of oil after conditioning your boots. Add mink oil, specialized leather oil, mineral oil, or neatsfoot oil to a clean cloth and apply it in the same way as you did with the conditioner.
Storing Your Boots
Proper storage of your cowboy boots is also crucial to maintain their shape and prevent damage. I recommend storing your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use boot trees or stuff them with newspaper to help them retain their shape. Avoid storing your boots in plastic bags or containers as this can cause the leather to dry out and crack.
Repairing Your Boots
If your cowboy boots become damaged or worn out, it’s essential to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. I recommend taking them to a professional boot repair shop to ensure that they are repaired correctly.
However, if you want to repair them yourself, you can use leather glue or patches to fix any holes or tears in the leather. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of your boots before applying it to the entire surface.
