Since the release of Beyoncé’s country album Cowboy Carter, the musician has repeatedly worn Western-inspired looks, including cowboy boots and double denim, that have taken hold in the mainstream fashion world. But she's not the only A-lister embracing the cowgirl aesthetic. Style icons like Bella Hadid, Katie Holmes, and Gisele Bündchen are also favoring Western-leaning trends, like head-to-toe denim, studs, fringe, and leathers.
Rodeo style has also been a source of inspiration across the Spring 2024 runways. Celine championed knee-high cleated boots, Ralph Lauren gave his quintessential Americana ranch style a dose of glam, and at Pharell's Louis Vuitton Men’s Fall 2024 show, there was a bit of everything, from wide-leg jeans tucked into vintage-worn cowboy boots to oversized buckle belts to wide-brim felt hats.
If you're intrigued by the Western trend or consider yourself a pro—but need some guidance on real-life applications—the best place to start is with the staple closet pieces that make a foolproof pairing with your jeans and cowboy boots. Here, Marie Claire chats with two fashion experts who have been following the trend closely—Revolve Fashion Director Divya Mathur and Nordstrom Associate Fashion Director Linda Cui Zhang. Here's their advice on mastering the aesthetic.
How to Style the Best Jeans for Cowboy Boots
The Tailored POV
When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously.
The combination of jeans and cowboy boots is often categorized as casual, but there are ways to give your cowgirl getup an elevated twist. "For more of a country chic look, I like to style a tailored top with mid-rise straight-leg jeans [flared jeans work too] layered over cowboy boots," says Mathur.
The Hybrid Pairing
Blend city and country aesthetics by throwing on a refined blazer with everyday basics. "For more of a "city Western vibe," I like to wear an oversized blazer, a T-shirt, and straight-leg jeans tucked into a pair of cowboy boots," says Mathur. If an untucked look is more your vibe, opt for jeans with a longer hem that drapes over your cowboy boots.
The Straightforward Approach
A brown suede top and a pair of jeans organically draped over flat-soled cowboy boots have a soft Western appeal. "I recommend avoiding costume-like accessories—such as big buckle belts or fringe bags—to keep the look elevated," says Mathur.
The Feminine Twist
"Softer tops with traditionally feminine details—like lace— juxtapose nicely against the hardwearing look of denim and boots," says Zhang. Try straight-leg jeans tucked into black suede cowboy boots, and if you need an extra layer, slip on a lightweight spring jacket that still keeps the soft details a central focal point.
The Statement Accessory
When your outfit is subdued, try a bolder accessory like a pair of two-toned cowboy boots to let your eye-catching footwear have a moment in the spotlight. Try a neutral top or a blazer and a pair of dark wash jeans alongside them.
The Styling Hack
According to Zhang, some of the best styling hacks for wearing jeans with cowboy boots exist on the runway. "I’m inspired by the 'jean boot tuck,' showcased during Louis Vuitton's Fall 2024 Men’s show. To achieve that smooth transition, fold the hem of your jeans into your socks before pulling on your cowboy boots," she notes.
The Warm Weather Swap
"With warmer weather on the way, I’m excited to explore denim shorts paired with cowboy boots," says Zhang. Since the shorts and boots are the focal point, I recommend minimalist styles for the rest of the outfit," she adds. To stay cool, style your look with a classic white tank top.
Expert Shopping Advice to Choose the Best Jeans for Any Cowboy Boots
- Silhouette
“A straight-leg silhouette is ideal for styling cowboy boots,” says Mathur. Unlike slim jeans, straight-leg jeans are often wide enough to fit over the shaft of a standard cowboy boot. “If you want to tuck your jeans into cowboy boots, the looser silhouette of a straight leg jean also allows for a bit of gathering around the knees and calf, which feels more modern than the look of a skinny jean,” she notes.
“The classic straight-leg jeans with a 15-inch leg opening seems to be a sweet spot for our customers,” says Zhang. She also notes that shoppers should consider denim bottoms with a longer inseam and a wider leg opening for an even roomier fit. Wide-leg jeans have a boxier structure around the leg and are especially useful for mid-calf or knee-high cowboy boots.
- Inseam Length
Inseam is a matter of personal preference, but Zhang notes that denim pants with longer inseams tend to be more flattering with cowboy boots. "Heeled cowboy boots give longer jeans a boost, and the peekaboo effect of cowboy boots under longer-cut jeans is a nice detail," she says.
However, there's not always a one-size-fits-all approach. “If you're opting for an ankle cowboy boot, a cropped jean will perfectly show them off,” Mathur explains.
Meet the Experts
Formerly an accountant with a career in merchandise planning, Linda Cui Zhang joined Nordstrom in 2021 as a buyer and is currently the Associate Fashion Director. Originally from North Carolina, Linda resides in New York City.
Divya Mathur is the fashion director at Revolve Group. Mathur has many years of buying and merchandising experience in the luxury and contemporary sector. She has a proven track record of leading transformational growth across both digital and physical stores for prominent global brands including Saks Fifth Avenue, Shopbop, and Michael Kors.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes engaging stories ranging from shopping pieces to trend reports. Prior to Marie Claire, Lauren covered fashion and beauty for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE as a freelance editor, with a specific focus on e-commerce. She also held editorial roles at Town & Country, Into The Gloss, and Philadelphia Style Magazine. Lauren earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, with a minor in Journalism, from the University of Pennsylvania. Follow her along at @laurenktappan.
-
Kendall Jenner Spotted at Bad Bunny Concert, Fueling Reconciliation Rumors
The former couple reportedly called it quits back in December 2023.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Selena Gomez's Cannes Red Carpet Look Deserves a Standing Ovation
This look is an all-time best for the actress.
By Halie LeSavage Last updated
-
King Charles Announces His First Overseas Trip Since Cancer Diagnosis
The monarch is finding a way to return to normalcy as he continues cancer treatments.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Look like a Pro in These Cute Tennis Outfits
Game, set, match.
By Emma Childs Published
-
The Best Yoga Pants Endorsed by Three Fitness Experts
Whether you're advanced, a flow newbie, or want something easy to throw on for the gym, these several qualities are deal-breakers when it comes to workout wear.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The J.Crew Sale Is Full of Fashion Editors’ Favorite Summer Essentials
From airy linen button-downs to nautical stripes, these are the closet basics of every style maven.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Tankinis Are Fashion's Most Practical Swimwear Trend
With the days inching closer to beach and pool season, it's still unclear if the '90s swimsuit style will resurface as the It style of the season.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The J.Crew Sale Has Everything on My Spring Outfit Mood Board
The perfect fashion destination to shop for warm-weather looks.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
20 Trending Shoe Styles From Sam Edelman’s Major Spring Sale
From sandals to pumps to sneakers, the footwear brand now has over 500 markdowns to shop.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Fashion Editors' Full-Proof Formula for Elevated Going-Out Outfits
Part of growing up is realizing that style and comfort can coexist.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Stylists on Why Leather Jackets Are a Great Investment
Fashion insiders weigh in on their favorite styles.
By Lauren Tappan Published