Western, But Make It Chic—The Elevated Way to Try the Trend

If you’ve been scrolling Instagram lately, you’ve probably noticed it… western style is having a serious moment. But before you picture cowboy hats and rodeo fringe, let’s talk about how to do it the chic way. The trick? Keep it subtle, polished, and refined. It’s the seemingly small, but impactful details that can transform your look.

For tips on how to nail the denim on denim look, check out this post next!

how to rock the western trend

Sometimes we see trends pop up and think “I could never pull that off”…but with some simple strategies and a little confidence, you absolutely can!

The Western Trend is one that I’ve loved for a long time, and while we are calling it a “trend” because it’s more “in” than normal, it’s actually pretty classic. So if you invest in a western inspired piece or two, rest assured you can wear it for years to come.

Let’s take a look at just how easy this trend can be!

1. Add a Statement Belt

One of the simplest ways to add a sophisticated western touch… a western-inspired belt. In the look above, I’m wearing a sleek black strapless jumpsuit—minimal, elegant, and flattering—paired with a beige leather belt featuring some bold studs. The belt makes a huge impact, breaking up the black and creating shape. The belt is a low cost, low risk way to try the trend that adds a lot of visual interest.

2. Chic Western Hats

A no-brainer way to add a western touch to your outfit is by wearing a western hat. You don’t need to go all out here with a straw cowboy hat like I’m wearing in the first look above. Instead, you can opt for a more subtle felt hat (pictured right). If you’re not sure about the trend, the belt is a safer bet. The hat definitely is more of a statement piece.

3. Pair Feminine Pieces with Western Booties

Contrast is everything! Try softening rugged western boots with a feminine, romantic dress. This white eyelet dress by Farm Rio paired with brown suede western booties strikes the perfect balance between pretty and practical. This ultra-feminine look is a gorgeous option for brunch, dinners or outdoor music festivals/rodeos. I love a beautiful white dress paired with western-inspired boots especially for events in my hometown of Telluride, Colorado. 

4. Versatility of Western Boots

Western boots are much more versatile than you might think! They pair just as well with flowy dresses as they do with denim, even denim shorts and skirts. Whether you style them with a feminine blouse, a button-down, or a classic tee, western boots add just the right amount of edge and attitude. They’re also practical, comfortable, and bring a stylish twist to even the simplest outfits.

it’s all in the details 

The best part about this trend? You don’t need a closet full of western pieces to make it work. With just a few thoughtful additions—a great belt, the right pair of boots—you can tap into the trend in a way that feels modern, chic, and completely authentic to your style. Western, but make it chic… it’s all about subtle details!

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