Coastal cowgirl quick picks
There’s a new sheriff in town, and it’s Western-wear. Cowboy boots, hats, belts, denim and fringe — they’ve been around for years, but this latest resurgence is particularly irresistible. In no doubt thanks to Beyoncé’s latest country album, which has caused a surge in Levi’s jeans purchases, the latest spin on the classic aesthetic is a perfect-for-summer trend that you might not expect: coastal cowgirl.
Ahead, we’ve broken down key elements of the trend, how to incorporate it into your wardrobe and some expert-recommended pieces to get you inspired, all thanks to the help of some fashion stylists. So, saddle up, because we’re betting that this easy-breezy yet totally cool aesthetic will be everywhere this season.
What is the coastal cowgirl trend?
“The coastal cowgirl vibe perfectly blends the Western spirit with the laid-back essence of the beach,” shares Ramy Brook Sharp, stylist, creative director and founder of Ramy Brook. Think belts as standout decorative pieces, pairing classic staples like denim or cotton shirts with cowboy hats and boots for an easygoing yet stylish vibe, and flowy fabrics or intricate details like fringe or patchwork for a touch of boho flair.
Samantha Brown, celebrity stylist and bestselling author of “Dressing Up,” describes the aesthetic as “defined by Western elements mixed with neutral, beachy style.” So while you have your classic cowboy-inspired components, you’re not necessarily dressing up in full cowgirl getup. It’s that juxtaposition of the grittier Western aesthetic with the softness of coastal beachwear that makes this trend versatile and compatible with so many different personal styles.
“When it comes to colors, think light and breezy shades of whites, tans and blues, evoking a coastal vibe and aesthetic,” Sharp says. Part of what makes this trend so wearable is the approachable color palette. You have the effortlessness of the classic coastal colors, with the richness and earthiness of Western accessories — truly the best of both worlds.
How to dress like a coastal cowgirl
“The mix comes down to textures like suede, denim, macramé, leather jewelry with pearls and cowboy hats,” Brown says. “Turquoise jewelry, denim shorts and flowy dresses paired with cowboy boots are all key staples for this trend.” The key is that you don’t wear them all at once.
“Incorporate these key elements in a way that feels authentic to your personal style so that you avoid looking costumey,” Brown says. Both she and Kam Throckmorton, fashion stylist and owner of Kam Throckmorton Style, recommend starting off by incorporating one or two cowgirl-inspired pieces into your look for a nod to the trend that feels effortless.
If there’s one must-have piece for truly achieving the coastal cowgirl look? All our experts agree it’s cowboy boots. “Cowboy boots add the perfect contrast to a beachy dress and oversized blazer,” says Throckmorton, who refers to this outfit as her uniform. “I absolutely adore how cowboy boots effortlessly complement any outfit, especially when paired with minidresses,” Sharp says. “They truly add a touch of Western charm to the coastal cowgirl trend.”
Cowboy boots
Throckmorton, who owns five boots from Tecovas, recommends this classic snip-toe option from the brand. The feminine yet classic Bone color is the brand’s bestselling color, which is no surprise given its versatility.?
These dressier knee-high cowgirl boots are a breeze to style for any night out or slightly dressier occasion. Like any classic black boots, they basically go with everything.
“Whenever I visit Texas, my go-to destination for boots is always Allens Boots,” Sharp says. This irresistible pair is classic and perfectly on-trend, and ideal for pairing with shorts or dresses.
Brown also recommends these editor-favorite tall cowgirl boots. “I love these Tecovas boots for spring and summer paired with flowy, easy dresses and denim,” Brown says. “They are neutral and light, making them a perfect transitional pair as the weather warms up.”
Coastal cowgirl denim
“This denim dress is stunning and size inclusive,” Throckmorton says. “I recommend letting this be the ‘cowgirl’ element and styling it with a strappy flat silver sandal.”
Denim shorts and cowboy boots are a pairing you can’t go wrong with. But if you’re hoping to look more fashion-forward than hoedown ready, a slightly more tailored pair like this option from Mango is a good place to start.
“White denim is the Western aesthetic,” Sharp says, “and the addition of sailor buttons infuses a coastal flair, blending the two styles.” Warm weather is the perfect excuse to sport some dramatic white jeans.
Throckmorton calls this dramatic denim skirt a more modern take on the “micro minis we often see associated with this trend.” She recommends styling with a simple white tank top and beachy gold jewelry.
To get the look for less, this Joe’s Jeans denim skirt also has an A-line silhouette and is on sale for under $100.
Jean jackets are a perfect piece to build your coastal cowgirl outfit around. In case you’re looking for something a bit different, the colorblocked effect pairs well with the Western aesthetic.
“Denim dresses are a must-have for every closet,” Sharp says. “With its statement collar, zip-up neckline and versatile short sleeves, this shift dress effortlessly transitions from day to night.”?
Coastal cowgirl outfit ideas
This flowy, dreamy dress has it all. A smock bodice, billowing sleeves and eyelet detailing — all that’s missing is the cowboy-inspired accessories of your choice.
Throckmorton calls “anything bandana print” a coastal cowgirl essential. She recommends this showstopping skirt, which she refers to as “magical and size inclusive.”
While it’s undeniably beachy,?the fringe on this minidress adds an interesting Western touch that takes it from beach dress to summer staple. Pair it with a straw hat and sandals or sunnies and your favorite pair of boots.
If there’s one look we can’t get enough of when it comes to the coastal cowgirl aesthetic, it’s cowboy boots paired with an airy white maxi skirt. This option from BP is made from 100% cotton and features a subtle yet perfectly on-trend inset lace trim.
“A ranch tee is an easy way to add that Western touch,” Throckmorton says. For that perfectly coastal cowgirl look, we’d recommend pairing with a flowy white skirt.
“A button-down shirt dress can be worn as a chic dress or cover-up with a straw cowboy hat,” Throckmorton says. Whichever you opt for, the chic eyelet embroidery is perfect for elevating any warm weather ’fit.
Suede, fringe and a whole lot of style, this country dream of a jacket has it all. “This can be worn for years and gives that old-school Americana feel,” Brown says.
Hats and accessories
“I find this hat style to be a good middle ground for both coastal and cowgirl,” Throckmorton says. The shape, which features a fedora crown and wide brim, is a bit more versatile and approachable than classic Western-style straw hats.
Throw it over a pair of jeans, a slip skirt or a flowy dress. No matter how you style this quintessentially Western chain belt, it’s the perfect way to add that cowgirl touch to any outfit.
A simple bolo tie adds a subtle Western flair to any look. This one features a mother of pearl centerpiece that could easily go with beachy seashell earrings for that coastal vibe.
“This is the kind of belt you find in a vintage store that makes every outfit better,” Throckmorton says. “I would wear this with a flowy dress or jeans.” In addition to selecting your belt size, you can choose from three different colors and two belt buckle finishes.
“This stunning cowboy hat feels elevated and chic, and not at all costumey,” Brown says. With a design inspired by the Texas State Capitol and meticulously crafted and hand-shaped from 100% Bolivian wool, it’s the real country deal.
“Imagine these with a breezy, white dress and boots,” Brown says. Coastal cowgirl perfection.
