It’s Time To Get Your Summer Cowgirl On

Ahead of the summer festivals and a rumoured Beyoncé tour, the Western fashion trend is showing no signs of slowing down. As the weather warms up however, typical cowboy core fits (i.e. denim on denim) aren’t the most summer appropriate. While sweat stains might add an air of authenticity to the horse-riding aesthetic, there are loads of ways to ride into Western fashion more comfortably this summer. 

Mrs. Knowles-Carter (our country style queen) has rolled out her summer style with denim cutoffs, sheer tops and graphic tees — regularly accompanied by a cowboy hat and boots. At this year’s Coachella, attendees showed up to the desert pairing cowboy hats and fringe jackets with weather-appropriate mini skirts and plain tees. Meanwhile on the spring/summer runways, brands like Ganni and Roberto Cavalli embraced cowboy core with Western-style boots, tiered skirts, and fringed bags and dresses.

So there’s no need to pack your cowboy boots away with the rest of last season’s gear. Ahead, find 18 ways to help you master the cowgirl aesthetic this summer. 

A V-shaped neckline gives a Western feel to any waistcoat. Pair with denim shorts or a breezy midi skirt.

Western style favours flouncy fabrics, and a layered skirt (no matter the length) is as fun as it is flattering. Go for a printed style for a bold staple. 

Denim shorts are a summer essential. 

Just throw on and go! Extra points to crochet dresses for getting in on the sheer trend.

Switch up your Western headwear for summer with a cotton or straw cowboy hat. Noughties vibes all the way. 

Your summer take on the Canadian tuxedo.

There are tons of ways to wear tiered, wide-leg trousers. Wear them with a simple vest or tee, and cowboy boots to match. 

Better late than never if you don’t already own a pair. Light-coloured boots are a summery and more casual alternative to black or metallic styles.

Don’t knock it til you try it. Bolo ties are the statement necklaces you didn’t know you needed.

Who says you can’t be a summer cowgirl at the office, too? Consider a denim mini dress with more coverage so you can wear it for a variety of occasions. 

Flirty lace goes hand in hand with Western style. 

When in doubt, opt for the classic cowboy-inspired print.

A chain belt will bring rodeo flair to any outfit. Wear over jeans, a dress or a skirt.

Denim will always get you one step closer to your cowboy dreams. Pair with jean shorts, wide-leg trousers, or a skirt.

Throw one on as a top, a headscarf, or around your neck for serious rodeo vibes.

When an extra layer is needed, a light jacket with fringe-detailing is the perfect cowgirl statement.

While leather isn’t the first material you think of for summer, faux leather hot pants (or a mini skirt) will give your denim shorts a run for their money. 

Graphic tees are very much back in.