Western-inspired design is one of the few fall trends that seems as ageless and classic. When the cold weather arrives, it feels natural to put on a suede fringe jacket or a strong cowboy boot. From rodeo-ready denim to paisley-printed prairie dresses, jean midiskirts, and more, these Western design trends have a high-style flair. This western-inspired spin on rodeowear already has a cult-like following, including celebrities and street style stars. Emily Ratajowski, who is known for pairing feminine dresses with more masculine footwear, has recently been photographed stomping around the city streets in her own pair of black-and-white Sonora cowboy boots, igniting the trend.
Stylish showgoers at Copenhagen Fashion Week SS23 wore bright cowboy hats and boots, raw denim trousers, and Western-inspired shirting alongside their typical Nordic garb. On the catwalk, Isabel Marant and Etro are always expected to play into the Western genre with their collections, but Prada, Khaite, and Tory Burch have also taken a hint of the trend.
A robust Western wardrobe foundation is made up of eight crucial pieces that may be worn together for a complete look or combined in with your other go-to fall closet necessities. Style a paisley printed dress from Isabel Marant or Ulla Johnson like Ratajkowski with a pair of cowboy boots from Johanna Ortiz and Reformation.
The Western Boot
Without a doubt, the cowboy boot is having a tremendous moment right now, with everyone from celebrities to street style sensations falling into the Western style. Johanna Ortiz and Sonora’s classic black shoes are akin to your go-to black boots for fall, but with the volume dialled way up. This fall, off-white versions from Isabel Marant and Reformation look lovely with a patterned flower or maxi dress. Stella McCartney’s brown, knee-high cowboy boots are wonderfully autumnal, while Khaite’s suede boot is a year-round favourite.
The Shirt in Denim
The denim shirt is a modern interpretation of classic Western shirting. Style with rodeo-ready jeans to double the denim. Western denim shirts from Saint Laurent and Rag & Bone are trimmed for a slimmer fit.
Rodeo Denim Jeans
Prepare for the rodeo in tough, no-frills denim. Straight-leg styles from Khaite and Levi’s are cowboy-approved, whereas flared jeans from Jeanerica and Mother are more cowgirl-approved. Dark wash denim from Rag & Bone and TuEs Mon Tresor has a lived-in quality, whether you’re out in the fall sun or at the office on a weekday. Side note: Yes, you may wear jeans to work!
The Prairie Gown
Prairie dresses add a feminine touch to your otherwise masculine Western wardrobe. Floral and paisley prints are essential to mastering the trend, and these from Alémais, Isabel Marant, and Ulla Johnson hit that sweet spot. A great white dress is a forever fall staple, and this prairie dress from LoveShackFancy levels up to include homespun crochet detailing. Sea’s puff sleeve linen dress pairs well with a leather boot (make it a cowboy!) and statement earrings for an effortless cocktail-attire look. We especially love this romantic drop-waist dress from Tory Burch.
