From Rodeo to Runway: How Western Wear Became Luxury’s Latest Obsession
March 28, 2025
Natasha Samsonov
Graphics by Emma Leifer
Western wear has long been associated with cowboy culture, ranch life, and rodeos, but in recent years, it has stepped off the ranch and into our closets for our everyday wardrobes. What was once considered functional attire for herding cattle and bull riding, has become a major style statement that is all the rage, infiltrating both streetwear and luxury fashion houses. From the rise of cowboy boots on city streets to the reimagination of Western silhouettes by high-end designers, the genre has evolved from a niche, practical aesthetic to a global trend.
In 2025, you don’t have to be in Texas or Montana and you do not need to be an equestrian to see the influence of Western style in daily fashion. Cowboy boots, once reserved for horseback riding and honky-tonk bars, are now a staple in urban fashion scenes. Brands like Ariat and Tecovas have found a new audience beyond Western wear enthusiasts, appealing to trend-conscious consumers looking for durability and a touch of American charm. Cowboy boots, however, are not exclusive to high-end brands. These days, you can find a range of cowboy boots and hats at any fast fashion retailer, from Steve Madden to Zara, without breaking the bank.
As Western style prevails, one fabric stands out above all else: denim. As a cornerstone of Western wear, denim has undergone a grand revival. Baggy, distressed jeans and structured denim jackets that are reminiscent of ranch attire are seen on everyone from students to celebrities. Canadian Tuxedos, which were once a fashion faux pas, are now a trending style choice adopted by the top fashionistas from Kendall Jenner to Bella Hadid. For those looking to sport the trend in a more casual way, fringe, pearl snaps, and oversized belt buckles are available across department store collections.
While Western style has become a staple of everyday wear, luxury brands have elevated it to new heights. High fashion has long borrowed from subcultures and historical aesthetics, and the Western theme has proven ripe for reinvention. Designers are reinterpreting cowboy boots, leatherwork, and rugged silhouettes in ways that blend heritage with modern luxury.
Take, for example, Pharrell Williams’ third collection for Louis Vuitton in 2024, which featured cowboy hats, oversized belt buckles, and Western-inspired embroidery. His take on Western wear infused the style genre with a high-end streetwear edge, proving that even the most iconic fashion houses see value in cowboy culture. Similarly, Ralph Lauren, a long-time champion of Americana fashion, continues to embrace Western influences, blending rich suede, intricate embroidery, and equestrian aesthetics with modern tailoring. Balenciaga and Givenchy have also played with the Western theme, turning cowboy boots into couture footwear and using distressed denim and fringe details in unexpected ways. Even Chanel, known for its Parisian sophistication, has incorporated Western motifs, showcasing beaded fringe dresses and cowboy-inspired hats in runway collections.
The resurgence of Western wear in both everyday and luxury fashion can be attributed to several cultural and stylistic factors. One key reason is nostalgia—there’s an idealized notion tied to cowboy culture, representing freedom, self-reliance, and rugged individualism. At a time when consumers crave authenticity and storytelling in fashion, Western wear delivers a rich narrative of heritage and craftsmanship. Additionally, the rise of gender-fluid fashion has made the traditionally masculine Western aesthetic more adaptable. Cowboy boots are worn by all genders, and oversized silhouettes, once seen as predominantly menswear, are now celebrated for their versatility. The Western trend aligns with the growing preference for practical yet stylish clothing, with its durable materials and timeless appeal making it both fashionable and functional.
As Western wear continues to dominate both everyday fashion and luxury markets, its influence is unlikely to fade anytime soon. High fashion brands will likely continue experimenting with Western elements, pushing boundaries with exaggerated shapes, intricate detailing, and unexpected material pairings. Meanwhile, mainstream fashion will keep finding ways to make Western staples more accessible and wearable for a broader audience. Whether you’re slipping into a pair of cowboy boots, layering a fringed jacket, or investing in a designer piece inspired by the Wild West, Western wear is more than just a passing trend—it’s a style movement that blends tradition with innovation. So, whether you’re dressing for a casual day on campus or a high-fashion event, don’t be afraid to embrace a little cowboy flair. After all, the frontier is closer than you think.
Although cowboy boots and flare denim shape our conception of western style, they stand on the shoulders of Mexican, Spanish, and Native American heritage.
Western wear has long been associated with cowboy culture, ranch life, and rodeos, but in recent years, it has stepped off the ranch and into our closets…