15 Cowboycore Outfits for an Authentic Western Experience

By Shelby Bonner Apr 07, 2024

Cowboy attire has been around since the 18th century and continues to evolve, including the more contemporary 21st century seen today. Cowboycore has quickly dominated pop culture with influencers, celebrities, and musicians modeling its aesthetic.

Cowboycore is similar to Westerncore and is often used simultaneously. Cowboycore embodies the core attributes of a cowboy and their lifestyle, including their confidence, independence, and lack of fear of standing out or being different.

This aesthetic is appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds, with its rugged charm, and ability to be combined with modern fashion in infinite ways and styles. Its clothes are also generally practical and versatile, being able to be paired with a variety of pieces and worn for any event or occasion.

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Denim on Demin

Denim on denim is a classic cowboy look. Denim was chosen by cowboys for its durability and toughness during long days and rugged activities. It is now a common staple in most people's closets.

For a cowboy look, wear a denim top or vest with a pair of denim jeans or a denim skirt. Mixmatch with different shades, washes, and distressed patterns for a more contemporary take.

Take a look at these denim choices.

Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots were originally made for riding horses for many hours in a day. Their high heels and pointed shoes fit easily into the horse's stirrup. Nowadays, they are recognizable statement fashion pieces made from a variety of materials.

Check out these boots.

Cowboy Hats

Brimmed hats come from cowboys, created to help shield their faces and eyes from long days in the sun.

The cowboy hat and its shape are now an essential item for cowboy and western lifestyles. Cowboy hats come in a variety of styles, materials, and fits, so choose the one that best fits your taste and your face shape.

Save these hats.

Fringe

Fringe is a classic cowboy look that is easier to incorporate than you may think. A touch of fringe can easily be added to a crop top, jacket, or even a fringed bag. Fringe is both Western and bohemian, combining the best of both worlds.

Try on these outfits with fringe.

Belts and Buckles

Buckles are a popular piece in cowboycore and are a great way to add different materials and accessories to your outfit. Wear a belt around your waist with a belt buckle on the front for a classic cowboy look or find jackets and pants with belts styled throughout for a more modern take.

Check out these belts.

Handkerchief or Bolo Tie

A handkerchief is tied around a cowboy's neck to help protect them from dust and wind. A bolo tie is a type of necktie made of a corded or braided string worn around the neck with a decorative metal tip at the end. This style is commonly found in Texas, New Mexico, and in the Western lifestyle.

Both styles are a great way to add a pinch of cowboy core to your look without having to go full cowboy

Find more Western looks here.

Touch of Beads and Turquoise

To represent the Native Americans' part in cowboy and Western culture, consider purchasing beaded jewelry and jewelry with turquoise. To give back to the true inspiration of the trend, purchase items from shops owned and run by Native Americans.

Save these jewelry brands.

Corset Top

Corsets were worn by many women in the west over and under their dresses. A corset top is a modern alternative that provides the same shape and silhouette as vintage Western fashion The lace-up structure also adheres to cowboycore and adds depth and texture to your look.

Try out these corset tops.

Platform Boots

A great alternative to a pair of classic cowboy boots is a pair of platform boots. Similar to cowboy boots, platform boots make a statement while still being practical to wear.

Choose a pair in black to go with any look, or consider finding a pair with cow print or animal print for a more Western look.

Discover more outfits to wear with boots here.

Faux Leather Jacket

Cowhide leather and artisan leather is popular for cowboys as it was and is an accessible materials to work with. Adding a faux leather jacket creates the same Western vibes as the West in a more sustainable way.

Check out these vegan leather jackets.

Flared Pants

Pants in a bootcut style, whether they are jeans, trousers, or even a jumpsuit are a subtle way to add a touch of cowboycore to your everyday wardrobe. The flared base also looks great with boots, including cowboy boots.

Wear these flared pants.

Rhinestone Cowboy

Adornments in cowboy clothes, including rhinestones, intricate stitching, and embroidery became popular in the 20th century when cowboy clothes were worn in Western films. Embellishments are a fun way to personalize your look as well as add flare and color throughout.

Find more rhinestone, embellished ideas here.

Classic Western Shirt

A classic Western shirt is composed of a button-up, collared fit, often adorned with metal snaps and embroidery. It is a hallmark piece for cowboys due to its ease of movement and versatility to be worn in casual as well as more formal settings.

Discover these button-up shirts.

Full Cowboy vs Part Cowboy

One of the best parts of cowboycore is your ability to choose how western you want to go. Many people wear a brimmed hat with chinos and dress shoes for just a touch of cowboy while others find joy in wearing a full western look.

Discover more cowboy looks here.

Floral Dresses

Floral dresses paired with a pair of cowboy boots are a simple, easy outfit you can wear any time of the year. Choose a flowy option for a comfortable, yet feminine look that will settle nicely against a pair of fitted boots.

Opt for a neutral, subtle flower print, or go bold with bright-colored flower combinations.

Save these dresses.

Combine with Other Aesthetics

The nice thing about cowboycore is that it can easily be combined with other aesthetics. For a more goth look, choose cowboy boots and hats in black and pair them with black faux leather pieces. For a more bohemian look, wear a long, flowy skirt with a fringe top and neutral-shade boots.

The combinations with different styles are endless.

Check out magical fairy core aesthetics here.

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About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.