Cowgirl Boots

Cowboy boots add instant personality to the simplest outfit. A plain sweater and jeans suddenly look styled, and a slip skirt feels a little tougher. I went deeper on a related idea in Cowgirl Boots Beyond the Rodeo.

 

The pairs that look best right now have a pointed or snip toe, a slanted western heel and a little stitching on the shaft. You do not need to go full rodeo: a short ankle style in suede is an easy way to start.

 

I split them into ankle and mid calf boots first, then tall boots for anyone ready to go bigger.

A short western boot is the easiest way into the trend. The cognac suede pair and the saddle leather one look great with straight jeans tucked in or worn over the top. The bone suede pair with contrast stitching is the softest color here.

 

For something darker, the black stitched pair with a snip toe and the black embroidered styles feel a little edgy. The tobacco suede pair with tiny studs and the taupe suede pair are perfect with dresses and tights.

 

My fitting room test: walk around and check your heel lifts only slightly. A little lift is normal and goes away as they break in. What I would skip: shiny man made uppers that crease badly.

Tall cowboy boots are the statement version. The café brown and tan pairs with classic stitching look best with a long skirt or bootcut jeans. The camel suede pair is softer and easier to style.

 

If you want something sleeker, the black knee high pair and the dark brown suede one look almost like riding boots. The distressed beige pair feels the most vintage, the mahogany slouchy suede pair is the most fashion forward, and the taupe pair with a square toe is the most comfortable.

 

What I look for: a shaft wide enough to wear over skinny jeans. What I would skip: a stiff shaft that digs into your calf.

Start with an ankle pair under straight jeans and a cozy knit, or try a tall pair with a midi skirt and a leather jacket for the evening.

 

Condition leather boots before you wear them the first time and they will soften up and fit like they were made for you.