Introduction
Cowgirl boots, once synonymous with the rugged terrain of the Wild West, have seen a remarkable resurgence in popularity in recent years. This resurgence can be attributed to the Coastal Cowgirl aesthetic, a fashion trend that combines the laid-back Californian lifestyle with elements of Southwestern flair. In this article, we will explore the origins and sources of this trend and how it has breathed new life into the iconic cowgirl boots.
The Coastal Cowgirl Aesthetic
The Coastal Cowgirl trend has taken the fashion world by storm, inspired in large part by the wildly popular TV show 'Yellowstone,' set in the farmlands of Montana. This aesthetic embodies a unique blend of sweet and sexy, combining classic cowgirl elements with a touch of Californian ease. From fringed jackets, Western belts, hats, to denim shorts, bustiers, crochet, and prairie dresses, this trend has captivated the fashion-forward.
Ralph Lauren's Influence
One of the pioneers of making cowboy boots and hats fashionable was Ralph Lauren. As early as 1979, Lauren showcased these iconic items on the runway. His commitment to this style has remained unwavering, with the designer consistently featuring them season after season. Even in his SS23 runway show, Lauren embraced the Coastal Cowgirl look, cementing its place in the world of high fashion.
The Coachella Effect
The world-renowned Coachella music festival, which began in 1999, played a significant role in popularizing the Coastal Cowgirl aesthetic. Located in the desert, the festival drew celebrities, influencers, and mainstream festival-goers, many of whom unwittingly adopted this style. This 'street style' influence extended beyond festival grounds and caught the attention of designers worldwide.
On the Runway
Several notable fashion designers have incorporated the Coastal Cowgirl look into their collections. In the Spring/Summer 2020 collections, Bronx & Banco featured deep V jumpsuits, Western belts, suede boots, and high-crowned hats. LaQuan Smith combined denim tunics with built-in bustiers and straw Stetsons. In Spring/Summer 2022, Nicoletta Spagnoli from Luisa Spagnoli introduced white eyelet dresses, straw Stetsons, and leather belts with silver and turquoise buckles. Kim Shui featured cut-out tunics, Stetsons, and embroidered knee-high Western boots. The trend continued into Fall/Winter 2023, with Philipp Plein showcasing leather bustiers, ruffled mini skirts, denim cowboy hats, and silver boots.
Conclusion
Cowgirl boots, once rooted in the Western frontier, have found new life in the fashion world thanks to the Coastal Cowgirl trend. This fusion of West Coast casualness and Southwestern flair has breathed new energy into a timeless and iconic style. As the trend continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts, we can expect to see cowgirl boots maintaining their status as a must-have accessory for seasons to come. So, whether you're a city dweller or a rancher at heart, don't be surprised if you find a pair of these boots in your closet soon!
