Skip to main content

How to style men’s cowboy boots: A guide to western fashion

How to style men's cowboy boots

person wearing cowboy boots on horse
Markus Spiske/Pexels / Pezels

When choosing a pair of fun, unique, and rugged shoes, there’s no doubt that cowboy boots have earned the top spot. Although we’ve grown accustomed to seeing cowboy boots in plenty of Western movies, they’re also a modern choice for those seeking a different type of footwear. Far from a prop for dressing up, cowboy boots offer a unique look you can’t get from other boots. However, styling them can be challenging for those new to the footwear choice. Thankfully, cowboy boots have become a go-to for many, meaning there are plenty of new ways to rock your favorite pair in a sophisticated look. The key to styling your cowboy boots is seeking a balance between Western elements and modern pieces, giving you a cohesive outfit you’ll reach for time after time. 

Wear boots under suit pants

man wealking wearing suit and boots
Ono Kosuki / Pexels

Even though cowboy boots may not seem the dressiest shoe, they’re the perfect pair for any elevated look. Instead of the same pair of dress shoes, choose a pair of cowboy boots that blend with your suit pants for a twist on a classic look. Wearing boots with a suit is simple, simply opt for a color that blends in with your suit for a sleek, cohesive look. You’ll want to opt for a shorter heel on your boots to help give you a dressier fit. Choose materials like leather for an elevated shoe that will complement the event. Although short cowboy boots are chic, stick with a taller option with a narrow leg that won’t bulk up underneath your suit pants. To prevent further bulking, looser suit pants will help give you enough space to tuck your boot underneath your pants without a hitch. 

Recommended Videos

Choose the right cowboy boot

close up of cowboy boot in stirrup
Angel Rkaoz/Pexels / Pexels

Like any shoe, the cowboy boot comes in various options. Although they share similarities, cowboy boots are made in multiple shapes and styles to provide different functions. The typical cowboy boot we are accustomed to seeing is the western boot. These boots come with a longer shaft, pointed toes, and a one-inch heel. The work boot is a shorter option with cushioned midsoles to help protect against shock absorption during a day’s hard work. For rodeo fans, the riding boot is a common sight. These boots’ unique angled heel helps cowboys latch onto their stirrups without the risk of falling. Another typical rodeo boot is the riding boot, which has a wider toe and square heel, making it easier to walk in. Lastly, the roper boot is another option that has gained traction among users. Unlike the typical Western boot, this choice has a round toe and square-shaped heel.

Although many of these options were crafted to complete specific tasks, they also give wearers more options Shorter-heeled cowboy boots can help in dressier situations, while a rounder toe can be the ideal option for casual fits. The perfect combination will depend on the look and event, however, there’s an option for any situation. Brands like Ralph Lauren and Red Wing are known for their cowboy boot options that can easily be incorporated into your everyday wardrobe.

Pair with dark wash jeans

man wearing dark wash denim and cowboy boots
Roy Reyna/Pexels / Pexels

Cowboy boots and denim are a classic match for any look. While light to mid-blue washed denim is an excellent choice in casual settings, it’s a dark denim option that’ll give you a more sophisticated look. Like most shoe options, dark denim blends with cowboy boots best to help balance the often embroidered and decorated boot. Acting as a neutral piece, the dark denim jean is the perfect place to begin if you’re unsure how to pair your cowboy boots. As well, dark denim jeans tend to match with a majority of tops, making it one of the easiest bottoms to create a cohesive look. 

Keep your look simple

man wearing shirt, blazer, jeans and cowboy boots
Pavel Danilyuk / Pexels

One of the most challenging aspects of styling cowboy boots is keeping your look elevated and purposeful. To help avoid overdoing your look, keep the outfit as simple and balanced as possible. Outfits with a simple white t-shirt and denim jeans are an easy go-to option that will still highlight your footwear, without distracting. Other items like belts or outerwear should be minimal and subtle to avoid clashing with your cowboy boots. The more ornate and bold your cowboy boots, the better it is to keep your outfit to simple pieces like a tee and jeans. If you’re looking to lean more into the westernwear look, a flannel or button-down is another option that will help your cowboy boots look sophisticated and chic. 

Topics
Leslie Leon
Leslie is a Los Angeles-based writer and content creator. She is always researching and finding the latest fashion trends…
From sleek loafers to rugged boots: The best casual shoes to invest in
The best casual shoes for men
person wearing brown leather shoes on bricks

Without a doubt, every closet and style needs to have a collection of casual shoes to rely on. The best casual shoes can withhold maximum use and still be a timeless model that’ll always be on trend. Picking out the right pair depends on your style and routine, which decides the level of support and comfort you require. A proper rotation of casual shoes can be made up of various styles, from boots to loafers to sneakers. When made with premium materials and construction these designs can easily be worn with most of your wardrobe and maintain its structure. This selection of shoes has proven to be timeless and quality-made designs that can be used for many years.
Sperry Authentic Original Penny Loafer

Any casual shoe in your closet should stand the test of time and still look fashionable. One brand that has successfully created numerous icon designs that have transcended any trend is Sperry. With their Authentic Original Penny Loafer, users get the ultimate casual shoe that doubles as a dress shoe. Giving you a more sophisticated everyday look, the penny loafer is a smart choice for those looking for comfort and luxury. The dark beige hue allows wearers to mix and easily match the shoe with most of the colors in your wardrobe. Available via Sperry for $110; and is an easy option to have in your closet.

Read more
Sweater vests are back: How to wear this classic men’s wardrobe staple today
An iconic look ready to make a comeback.
how to wear sweater vest man in black and tie

When it comes to iconic men's wardrobe staples, there are a few that swing in and out of style. While most of us think of staples as timeless garments that never sway, from the khaki chinos to the classic Chelsea boot, there are some that may drop out of trendy vogue only to swing back with a vengeance. Now, we are primed for the return of one of men's most timeless staples to barrel back into the marketing campaigns of our favorite brands: get ready for the sweater vest. Now, you may be thinking back to the last time you saw a sweater vest in the wild, and it has likely been a bit. But, just like Michael Myers, it won't stay dead, it can't die, just when you think it is gone, it comes careening back into stylish vogue. But that doesn't mean you should toss one on all willy-nilly. No, sir, learning how to wear a sweater vest in today's world is different. But that doesn't mean we won't take inspiration from our favorite sweater vests from the past.

Here are our favorite sweater vest styles and how to elevate them for today's world.
The Chandler Bing

Read more
Don’t sacrifice style with winter boots: The key to functional fashion this season
Stay stylish even in mens winter dress boots
Boots standing on frosty winter ground.

The weather is beginning to make your trip to the office or the grocery store much more precarious. The snow is falling, and the roads are getting wet and slippery. That is when it becomes imperative that you get the right garments and shoes to protect yourself against the elements. The only problem? They are rarely as stylish as the rest of your wardrobe. Winter boots specifically have a hard time retaining the style of other seasons, and men's winter dress boots are the closest you will get to style while staying elevated. That is why you need to find the perfect outfit to stay warm and dry while not sacrificing your style. How do you do that? By mastering functional fashion. Here is the way to nail this look.
Why winter boots feel less stylish

Really, what this comes down to is the argument of function over fashion. When you have something that looks great, it is often constructed without focusing on making your life easier. When you have something made for a specific purpose, you often sacrifice the look of the boot because it is meant to keep your feet warm, dry, or both. Keeping your style elevated during the winter months will come down to finding a pair of boots that find the balance between the two. Functional fashion is the hallmark of a great winter boot look.
What boots to grab for the stylish function: Nicks Boots Insulated Waterwork

Read more