Spotting my first cowboy boot out in the wild is my version of Groundhog Day. It’s the unofficial signal that summer is near, and we’re collectively trading in our winter boots and rain-approved styles for something a bit more textured. Once reserved for festivals like Coachella or the occasional theme party, cowboy boots have officially wrangled their way into the everyday style lexicon.
Of course, the appeal makes total sense. After all, there’s something about the contrast of crisp leather against breezy summer fabrics that just works. Whether it’s pairing a classic black boot with a loose cotton mini or experimenting with metallics under a floaty sundress, the juxtaposition feels fresh and playful. And with brands rolling out more breathable builds and unexpected colorways courtesy of sleek suedes and punchy cherry reds—cowboy boots have never felt more adaptable.
Ahead, find 10 simple ways to wear the versatile shoes all summer long.
In Statement Suede
Getty Images
Suede is the moment. When mixed in with cowboy boots, it brings just the right amount of drama to a summer outfit. It’s bold and honestly a little unexpected. They pair especially well with a denim two-piece set because of the cool contrast. Plus, the soft, matte finish of suede adds depth to any look without clashing.
As an Accent Color
Getty Images
Pro tip: Cowboy boots are secretly one of the best ways to work an accent color into your outfit—especially when it’s a bold shade like red. Unlike a jacket or top, boots don’t overwhelm the look, but they still pack a punch. A red pair instantly can anchor the rest of your outfit, especially when subtly echoed with matching accessories like a purse, belt, or even a lip.
With Casual Denim Shorts
Getty Images
It might seem like an obvious choice, but crisp denim shorts and cowboy boots are a great combo. They’re classic, yes, but they also are easy and can be elevated to feel a little rebellious if you’re into it (like with a sheer top). The clean lines of structured shorts balance out the rugged, lived-in vibe of the boot without going full costume. It works just as well with a white tank as it does with something frillier.
In Animal Style
Getty Images
Animal print cowboy boots are basically the cool-girl version of neutrals. They add an immediate visual interest without clashing with the rest of your outfit, making them surprisingly versatile. The contrast in color makes them pop just enough, so even if you’re wearing something simple (like a black slip dress or jeans and a tee), the boots do all the heavy lifting.
Under Loose Cargo Pants
Getty Images
Styling the footwear with loose denim cargo pants hits that perfect middle ground between utility and statement. The structured shaft of the boot peeking out from under the relaxed, slouchy fit of the cargos creates a laid-back silhouette that still looks curated. It’s an unexpected pairing that plays with proportion: the toughness of the boots juxtaposes the looseness of the pants. Throw on a fitted tank or crop top up top, and suddenly you’ve got a look that’s equal parts streetwear and Western—with zero effort.
With Crisp Whites
Getty Images
Pairing cowboy boots with a crisp white dress create a beautifully sophisticated ensemble. You can experiment with fun patterns and colors on the boots, knowing the rest of the outfit is relatively simple. The pairing feels timeless and is rustic yet refined.
With All Black
Getty Images
Sometimes all you need is a textured touch to make an all-black outfit feel elevated. The monochrome hue already works so well, but with cowboy boots? Perfection. Use the dark palette of your clothing to keep things sleek and understated and the boots to add texture and shape to break up the look without disrupting it.
With Bold Patterned Maxis
Getty Images
Boho-chic can be achieved with a whimsical printed maxi dress and cool white boots. The crispness of the footwear will ground the flowing, free-spirited vibe of the dress while also adding structure that keeps the look from feeling too overwhelming. And with a bold pattern dress that draws the eye upward, the boots bring a bit of earthiness and edge to balance things out.
With a Lace Skirt
Getty Images
The next time you want a dainty look that is feminine yet edgy, slip on a lace skirt and ground it with your boots. The footwear brings a bit of tough, Western charm to the romantic vibe of the skirt, making the outfit feel less precious and more fashion-forward.
With a Corset
Getty Images
Whoever said cowboy boots didn’t work for fancy outings just didn’t have the right styling perspective. Here, black heeled boots look so classy next to a corset and skirt two-piece set. The look is then taken a step up with the addition of sheer white gloves that make it feel all the more elevated.
Read the original article on InStyle
