As the temperature rises and the sun beats down, thinking of light and breezy clothing options are natural. But what about footwear? Specifically, what about cowboy boots?
These iconic boots have long been associated with rugged ranchers and country music stars, but can they be worn in the summer? Some may scoff at the idea, but before you write off this western classic, let’s explore the versatility and style that cowboy boots can bring to your summer wardrobe.
Whether you’re a seasoned boot-wearer or a curious fashionista, discover if cowboy boots are a summer must-have or a fashion faux pas.
Can You Wear Cowboy Boots in the Summer?
The answer is a resounding yes! But before you start sporting your favorite pair of western boots, it’s essential to consider the practicality of wearing them in warm weather. Regarding breathability and ventilation, cowboy boots may not be the first choice for some.
However, cowboy boots can be quite breathable and comfortable even in the summer heat with the right material choices, such as suede or distressed leather. Additionally, cowboy boots are versatile and can be worn to various occasions during the summer, from music festivals to outdoor weddings.
So, whether you’re out running errands or attending a summer soirée, cowboy boots can be a stylish and practical choice for footwear.
Also read: What your cowboy boots say about you?
How To Style Cowboy Boots in the Summer? (11 Styling Tips)
Now that we’ve established that cowboy boots are a viable footwear option for summer, it’s time to discuss how to style them. When pairing cowboy boots with summer clothing, there are many options. Here are the 11 cowboy boots styling tips for the summer:
1. Pair with denim shorts and a flowy tank top:
Pairing cowboy boots with denim shorts and a flowy tank top is a classic summer look that is both stylish and practical. The denim shorts provide a casual and comfortable base, while the flowy tank top adds a feminine touch.
Cowboy boots, on the other hand, add a western flair to the outfit and can elevate the overall look. Consider adding a fun accessory like a statement necklace or a wide-brimmed hat to complete the company.
This look is perfect for running errands, attending a summer festival, or hanging out with friends. You can create a chic and effortless summer outfit with the right combination of denim, flowy fabric, and cowboy boots.
2. Wear with a sundress or skirt:
Wearing cowboy boots with a sundress or skirt is a versatile and stylish option for summer events. Combining the feminine silhouette of the dress or skirt with the ruggedness of the cowboy boots creates an exciting contrast that can make a fashion statement.
Opt for a dress or skirt in lightweight cotton or linen to keep the outfit airy and breathable in the summer heat. Pair the outfit with a wide-brimmed hat and a statement necklace to complete the look.
Cowboy boots can come in various styles, including ankle-length and knee-high, so choose a pair that complements the length of your dress or skirt.
Whether you’re attending a summer wedding, garden party, or brunch with friends, cowboy boots paired with a sundress or skirt can make you look and feel stylish and comfortable.
3. Opt for lightweight materials:
When styling cowboy boots in the summer, it’s essential to consider the materials you’re wearing. Opting for lightweight materials can keep you cool and comfortable while complementing cowboy boots’ western vibe.
Materials like cotton, linen, and chambray are excellent choices as they are breathable and airy, making them perfect for hot summer days. Additionally, lightweight fabrics can create an effortless, bohemian-inspired look when paired with cowboy boots.
Choose a flowy blouse or dress to pair with your shoes for an easy and breezy summer outfit. Alternatively, consider a pair of denim shorts or a skirt made of lightweight denim or chambray to pair with your boots. Pairing cowboy boots with lightweight materials is a great way to balance comfort and style in the summer heat.
4. Accessorize with a wide-brimmed cowboy hat:
Accessorizing with a wide-brimmed cowboy hat is a fun and practical way to add a western flair to your outfit while protecting yourself from the sun’s rays. Cowboy hats come in various materials, including straw, felt, and leather, but straw cowboy hats are the best choice for summer.
Pairing a straw wide brim cowboy hat with cowboy boots can create a cohesive, polished look that ties the outfit together. When wearing a cowboy hat, choosing the right size is essential to ensure it fits comfortably and doesn’t blow away in the wind.
You can also add a fun bandana or scarf tied around the hat for a touch of color and a different style. Whether spending the day at a summer rodeo or running errands, accessorizing with a wide-brimmed straw cowboy hat can help you stay cool, comfortable, and stylish all summer.
5. Add a statement necklace or earrings:
Adding a statement necklace or earrings is an excellent way to elevate your cowboy boots outfit and add a touch of glamour to your look. When choosing a statement piece, consider the style and color of your cowboy boots.
A colorful beaded necklace can complement brown or tan boots, while a silver or turquoise necklace can add color to black boots. Alternatively, a pair of statement earrings can add a playful touch to your outfit while drawing attention to your face.
When wearing a statement necklace or earrings, it’s best to keep the rest of your outfit simple and let the jewelry take center stage. Pairing your cowboy boots with a flowy dress or a simple blouse and denim shorts can create a perfect backdrop for a statement accessory.
Whether going out to dinner or attending a summer concert, adding a statement necklace or earrings can help you look stylish while wearing cowboy boots in the summer.
6. Try layering a lightweight denim or chambray shirt:
Layering a lightweight denim or chambray shirt over a tank top or sundress is a great way to add a touch of western style to your summer outfit while providing extra coverage and warmth when needed.
A denim or chambray shirt can be worn open or buttoned up, depending on your preference and the occasion. When wearing a denim or chambray shirt, choosing a lightweight material is best to keep the outfit comfortable and breathable.
You can also tie the shirt around your waist or wear it off the shoulder for a more casual and relaxed look. Pairing the outfit with cowboy boots can create a cohesive and polished look that is perfect for a summer BBQ, a day out with friends, or any casual occasion.
When styling cowboy boots in the summer, layering a lightweight denim or chambray shirt is a versatile and stylish option to dress up or down easily.
7. Choose a pair of boots with cutouts or perforations:
When choosing the proper cowboy boots for summer, selecting a pair with cutouts or perforations is a great way to ensure your feet stay relaxed and comfortable in warm weather. These cowboy boots offer increased breathability and ventilation, essential for keeping your feet fresh and dry during hot summer days.
Cutouts and perforations can come in various shapes and designs, from intricate patterns to simple geometric shapes. They can also be found on different parts of the boots, such as the shaft, toe box, or vamp.
When selecting a pair of cowboy boots with cutouts or perforations, it’s essential to consider the construction’s material and quality to ensure they will last and withstand regular wear. Pairing these boots with a summer dress or shorts can create a stylish and effortless western-inspired look that is perfect for a day out or a summer festival.
8. Mix and match different textures:
Mixing and matching different textures is a reliable method to add depth and interest to your cowboy boots outfit during summer. Creating a unique and visually appealing look can be achieved by combining smooth and sleek materials with textured and intricate ones, suitable for any occasion.
Regardless of dressing up for a special event or keeping it casual, experimenting with different textures can help you create distinctive and stylish cowboy boots outfits that are perfect for summer. For instance, you can create a beautiful contrast between a flowy chiffon skirt’s soft and delicate fabric and the rugged and durable leather of suede cowboy boots.
Moreover, you can also mix different materials such as lace, crochet, or embroidery with your cowboy boots to create a bohemian-inspired look suitable for summer festivals or outdoor concerts. Maintaining a cohesive and harmonious color scheme is vital when mixing and matching different textures.
Choosing colors that complement each other, such as pastels or earth tones, can create a polished and cohesive look that will grab attention.
9. Play with color and pattern:
Playing with color and pattern is an excellent way to add personality to your outfit. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant colors or subtle and muted hues, there are various ways to incorporate color into your western-inspired look.
One of the easiest ways to play with color is to choose a pair of cowboy boots in a bright, eye-catching shade like turquoise, coral, or red. These colors can add fun and playful elements to any outfit and work exceptionally well for summer. For example, you can pair turquoise cowboy boots with a simple white sundress to create a chic and effortless summer look.
Alternatively, you can experiment with patterned cowboy boots such as floral, tribal, or animal prints. These patterns can add a touch of bohemian chic to your outfit and can be paired with solid-colored dresses or shorts to create a balanced and cohesive look
When playing with color and pattern, it’s essential to keep the overall outfit simple and understated. You want the cowboy boots to be the focal point of your outfit, so you should keep accessories and other elements to a minimum.
With a bit of creativity and experimentation, playing with color and pattern can help you create a cowboy boots outfit that’s unique, stylish, and perfect for summer.
10. Experiment with different heel heights:
To add variety to your cowboy boots outfits in the summer, you can experiment with different heel heights. You can choose flat boots for a casual and comfortable look or high-heeled boots for a more formal and polished look.
If you want to experiment with different heel heights, consider selecting a pair of cowboy boots with a low or mid-height heel, such as a block or wedge heel. These heels can provide added support and stability, making them an excellent option for walking or standing for long periods.
Lower heel heights can create a more casual and relaxed look, perfect for daytime events or outings. On the other hand, if you want to dress up your cowboy boots outfit, you can go for a pair of boots with a high heel, such as a stiletto or stacked heel.
These heels can elongate your legs and create a more formal and elegant look, making them perfect for evening events or special occasions. When you experiment with different heel heights, choosing a height you feel comfortable and confident in is essential.
11. Try tucking skinny jeans into cowboy boots:
Tucking skinny jeans into cowboy boots is a classic and timeless look that is perfect for summer. This style is practical and stylish and can instantly elevate any outfit. To achieve this look, tuck your skinny jeans into your cowboy boots, ensuring that the jeans are snug around the ankles to create a clean and polished look.
This style works well with high and low cowboy boots and can be paired with a simple t-shirt or blouse for a casual and effortless look. When choosing skinny jeans to tuck into your cowboy boots, choosing a pair that fits well and is comfortable to wear is essential.
Look for jeans with a stretchy and lightweight fabric that allows you to move around freely and stay cool in the summer heat.
With some experimentation and confidence, tucking skinny jeans into cowboy boots can be fun and versatile to style your western-inspired look in the summer. Additionally, consider the color of your jeans and how they will pair with your cowboy boots.
Dark-wash denim can create a more sophisticated and polished look, while light-wash denim can create a more laid-back and casual look.
Some Dos and Don’ts of wearing cowboy boots in the summer:
While cowboy boots can be a fashionable and practical choice for summer, following some dos and don’ts are essential to ensure you wear them correctly. Firstly, ensure that your cowboy boots fit properly and are the right size for your feet.
Ill-fitting boots can lead to blisters and discomfort, especially in the summer heat. Additionally, avoid wearing heavy socks or stockings with cowboy boots, as this can make your feet feel hot and stuffy.
To keep your cowboy boots looking great throughout the summer, following proper care practices is essential. This includes regularly cleaning and conditioning your boots to prevent dirt and sweat buildup and storing them in a cool, dry place when not in use.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your cowboy boots are stylish and comfortable throughout the summer.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the answer is a resounding yes; you can wear cowboy boots in the summer! With their timeless design, practicality, and versatility, cowboy boots can be the perfect addition to any summer wardrobe.
From pairing with denim shorts and flowy tank tops to accessorizing with wide-brimmed hats and statement jewelry, there are endless ways to style cowboy boots in the summer. However, the real value of wearing cowboy boots in the summer is how they make us feel – confident, stylish, and unique.
These boots are more than just a fashion statement; they represent a sense of independence, a connection to our past, and an appreciation for the timeless design that never goes out of style.
So, whether you’re a long-time cowboy boots enthusiast or just starting to explore this western-inspired trend, remember that wearing cowboy boots in the summer is not only possible but can also be a fun and empowering way to express your style.
So go ahead and embrace your inner cowgirl, and enjoy the unique style and confidence that comes with wearing cowboy boots in the summer!
FAQs
Can men wear cowboy boots in the summer?
Yes, men can wear cowboy boots in the summer. Many cowboy boots are available for men, including those with shorter shafts and more breathable materials.
What are the best materials for cowboy boots in the summer?
The best materials for cowboy boots in the summer are those that are breathable and lightweight. Some great options include leather or suede with perforations, mesh or canvas materials, and boots with cutouts or straps.
Can you wear cowboy boots to work in the summer?
This largely depends on the type of workplace and dress code. In more casual or creative environments, cowboy boots can be a great addition to a work outfit in the summer. However, in more formal settings, wearing cowboy boots may not be appropriate.
What are the best colors for cowboy boots in the summer?
There are no hard and fast rules regarding color choices for cowboy boots in the summer. However, lighter colors such as tan, beige, or white can be great for a summery look. You can also experiment with bright colors or pastels for a fun and playful touch.
Are there any specific care tips for cowboy boots in the summer?
To keep your cowboy boots looking great in the summer, taking good care of them is essential. Make sure to clean and condition them regularly, especially if you’ve been wearing them in dusty or dirty environments. Also, avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for extended periods, which can cause the leather to dry out and crack. Lastly, store them in a cool and dry place to prevent any damage from humidity or moisture.
Do you wear socks with cowboy boots in summer?
It’s generally recommended to avoid wearing socks with cowboy boots in the summer, as this can cause your feet to sweat and feel uncomfortable. However, if you wear socks, opt for thin, breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo to help wick away moisture.
Is it OK to wear cowboy boots every day?
While it’s technically OK to wear cowboy boots every day, it’s essential to remember that wearing the same shoes every day can cause them to wear out more quickly. To ensure the longevity of your cowboy boots, it’s best to rotate them with other shoes and give them a break between wears. Additionally, provide to take good care of them by cleaning and conditioning them regularly and storing them properly when not used.