If you were to take a look at your Instagram feed right this second, it’s likely that you would see at least one set of cowboy boots — if not more. Since last summer, the Western kicks have exploded on TikTok, but they’ve arrived in even fuller force this year. The “coastal cowgirl” aesthetic reigned supreme at Coachella, and with Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour serving as the culture-defining events of 2023, party-ready glittery and metallic cowboy boots are more in demand than ever. While the style may appear most suited to poolside holidays and music festivals, we’re here to prove that cowboy boots work just as well for everyday errands, too.
A flick through the archives reveals that cowboy boots have always been worn by those known for their playful fashion. From Princess Diana rocking a pair with a blazer and a baseball cap to Pamela Anderson styling hers with jean shorts and a white tee, they’re the definition of statement shoes. While the resurgence of Y2K fashion and festive concert attire might account for their recent revival, the influx of cowboy boot-centric outfits on TikTok and Instagram sits within a wider “yeehaw agenda.”
For those wondering how they can style a pair of cowboy boots for day-to-day adventures, we’ve dived into our Instagram feed to find the most summer-appropriate ‘fits to suit every occasion. Whether you’re into bright, bold boots or classic vintage styles, we’ve gathered the best looks to serve as your style inspiration, rodeo not required.
So giddy up and click through the slides ahead to discover how to style and shop the best cowboy boots on the market for summer.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Barbiecore
Western wear and Barbiecore fashion are a match made in heaven. The more pink, the better — just look at this look from @xiaolongbby on Instagram.
We The Free | Free People Montage Tall Boots, $328
Step into Barbie World with these blush-colored, distressed leather boots from We The Free.
We The Free | Free People Montage Tall Boots, $, available at Free People
Space Cowgirl
Shimmering metallics are all the rage these days, so why not lean into the trend with a pair of space-age boots? See @audreyags for how to pull them off in a day-to-day look.
Idyllwind Blue By You Western Boots, $219.50 $199.50
These iridescent boots are the epitome of the space cowboy aesthetic.
Idyllwind Blue By You Western Boots, $, available at Boot Barn
Coastal Cowgirl
Embody TikTok’s new favorite aesthetic by melding the “coastal grandmother” look and Western style. A linen vest, denim mini skirt and dark brown leather boots à la @isabelleheikens is a winning combination.
Ariat Heritage R Toe Western Boot, $159.95
These vintage-style cowboy boots from Ariat are a must if you’re looking for a classic pair of Western kicks.
Ariat Heritage R Toe Western Boot, $, available at Ariat
Rom-Comcore
It’s time we all start romanticizing life and dressing like we’re in a rom-com. Pair some white cowboy boots with a romantic dress for the TikTok-approved “soft girl” look, like this dreamy outfit from @nk.medani on Instagram.
Billini Urson White Pointed-Toe Knee High Boots, $115.00
Sky-high cowboy boots elongate your legs and look great paired with skirts, dresses, and shorts.
Billini Urson White Pointed-Toe Knee High Boots, $, available at Lulus
Classic Black
Nothing says classic like a pair of all-black boots. Just swap out your usual knee-highs and mid-calfs for a pair of cowboy boots, like @sqvarforth on Instagram.
EGO Pen-To-Paper Embroidered Square Toe Western Boot, $50.00
Instead of pulling on a typical pair of black knee-high boots, reach for a Western style to mix your style up.
EGO Pen-To-Paper Embroidered Square Toe Western Boot, $, available at Ego
Preppy Meets Party
On paper, golden cowboy boots are the most maximalist of fancy footwear, but @juliegarcia16 is teaching us how to style them casually. Just embrace your inner Gossip Girl character.
Public Desire Calabasas Gold Western Embroidered Cowboy Boots, $74.99
Talk about a statement shoe. You’ll bring the party with you wherever you go in these glittering gold boots.
Public Desire Calabasas Gold Western Embroidered Cowboy Boots, $, available at Public Desire
Rock ‘N Roll Edge
Into edgier looks? Cowboy boots are perfectly suited for rock ‘n roll or punk-inspired ‘fits, too. Look to @spacecowboymaya for inspo.
ASOS DESIGN Cupid Contrast Western Knee Boot, $86.00 $64.50
A pair of red-, black-and-white cowboy boots, like these ones by ASOS Design, give an immediate rock ‘n roll flair.
ASOS DESIGN Cupid Contrast Western Knee Boot, $, available at ASOS
Disco Cowgirl
These boots were made for…going to the Beyoncé Renaissance Tour. Take some inspiration from @downrainbowlane on Instagram for an outfit fully ready for a night of dancing.
Annie’s Ibiza x Terry de Havilland The Silver Cowboy Boot, $432.12
Someone turn on “ALIEN SUPERSTAR” stat!
Annie’s Ibiza x Terry de Havilland The Silver Cowboy Boot, $, available at Annie’s Ibiza
Holiday Ready
Pulling up your holiday destination dress to show off your boots? Absolutely. Wearing cowboy boots in the tropics just makes sense — look at @jazminvegaz on Instagram for inspo.
Steve Madden Wynter Boot, $189.00
We love the butterfly design on these bone-white, croc-embossed boots from Steve Madden.
Steve Madden Wynter Boot, $, available at Revolve
Pop Of Colour
Subtlety? We don’t know her. Fire-engine red cowboy boots immediately bring attention to your outfit, as shown by @kimcarnes.
Ganni Embroidered Leather Boots, $554.00 $440.00
The heart stitch on these cherry red Western-style boots from GANNI is to die for.
Ganni Embroidered Leather Boots, $, available at Farfetch
Country To City
Baseball cap > cowboy hat. Bring a touch of country to the city by wearing cowboy boots alongside streetwear accessories, like @itsisabellaloren does with a baseball hat, chic sunglasses, and a waist bag.
Boot Barn Shyanne Women’s Encore Mad Dog Western Boots, $199.99
A classic style of brown leather cowboy boots is a versatile addition to any footwear collection.
Boot Barn Shyanne Women’s Encore Mad Dog Western Boots, $, available at Boot Barn
All Black Everything
An ultra-cool monochrome ‘fit like this one from @foodshelterfashion on Instagram is our summer-to-fall uniform. This is also a reminder that cowboy boots look just as chic under a pair of jeans.
Stradivarius Heeled Cowboy Boots, $89.90
These simple black cowboy boots from Stradivarius feature subtle embroidered details throughout.
Stradivarius Heeled Cowboy Boots, $, available at Stradivarius
Sporty Cowgirl
Not a space cowboy? Then maybe you should be a sporty cowgirl this summer. Check out this vibrant outfit from @devapollon for inspiration.
Toral Far Boot, $619.00
Go bold with a colorful pair of Western boots like these ones by Toral.
Toral Far Boot, $, available at Revolve
Casual Country
Is there anything more “yeehaw chic” than sipping iced coffee in your cowboy boots? Elevate any casual summer shorts and tank outfit with a pair of Western kicks, as shown by @alyssaburtis.
Dirty Laundry Upwind Western Boot, $99.95
A pair of tan cowboy boots will go with just about everything in your summer wardrobe.
Dirty Laundry Upwind Western Boot, $, available at Nordstrom
Summertime Shades
Green-and-blue color combos scream Y2K — and they’re the perfect splashy hues for the summer. Plus, this bucket hat and boots look from @chloelecareux is the sartorial pairing we didn’t know we needed.
Azalea Wang Knox Embellished Western Boot in Blue, $119.90
These glitzy green and blue boots from Azalea Wang are definitely summer attire.
Azalea Wang Knox Embellished Western Boot in Blue, $, available at ASOS
Americana Chic
Nothing says Americana quite like a bandana, suede fringe vest, and cowboy boots. And with the Chanel bag? Perfection. This ‘fit from @terriblementm on Instagram is très chic.
Pull&Bear Embellished Cowboy Boots, $89.90
The star design on these black-and-white cowboy boots is serving up subtle Western rockstar glam.
Pull&Bear Embellished Cowboy Boots, $, available at Pull&Bear
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