No partner, this ain’t a mirage you’re seeing.

Western Wear is hot right now, and to be perfectly honest, this time around it might be here for good. Not that we’re complaining. Who doesn’t love the idea of feeling like a cowboy from the golden age of Hollywood, even if the only cattle you’ll be herding today is a pack of ground beef from the supermarket?

The point is, contrary to the beliefs of a few odd purists, you don’t need to actually be a cowboy to have fun dressing like one. Western style, also known as western wear, has a deep, rich history that’s uniquely American and reminiscent of rugged frontier life.

Like any style, it’s evolved plenty over time, and modern, contemporary western wear is somewhat removed from its origins. But the DNA is still there, and historical context is what gives clothing its meaning, after all.

Also, it’s nearly summer, which for some reason, tends to be a big season for western wear. But it’s appropriate all year round if you know what you’re doing! That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide, so you can dip your pointy boots into the exciting frontier of great western style. Saddle up!

From the Ground Up: Western Boots

Arguably the most iconic and pervasive emblem of classic western style, western boots are a fitting place to start off this guide.

First, a small distinction. While the terms “western boot” and “cowboy boot” are often used interchangeably, technically, cowboy boots are a specific type of western boot. But they’re also often what people think of when they picture western style.

Classic cowboy boots are tall, usually reaching up to the mid-calf, and sometimes even taller. They can have a rounded, squared, or pointed toe, as well as decorative embellishments along the leather. Pull-up tabs or straps and distinctive, tall heels are also considered defining features.

The best cowboy boots are made from high-quality leather, with properly welted soles that can easily be replaced to make them last for years. In terms of versatility, shades of brown and black tend to be the most easy to style.

Western boots are also remarkably easy to style without committing to the full cowboy look. Whether you live in Houston, Texas, the heart of NYC, or anywhere in between, cowboy boots are an enduring style statement that anyone can wear – with just about anything. Check out our definitive guide on western boots here!

In the Saddle: Old Town Blue Jeans

The next foundational layer of authentic western style would have to be jeans.

Denim was born on the frontier too, after all! In fact, the fabric was originally used for tents, wagon covers, and similar uses, due to its inherent ruggedness and durability. Eventually, it made its way into clothing use. And so, the jean was born.

While the fit and silhouette of jeans changes with the trends, most western fits feature a flared leg, also known as a bootcut. The degree to which the opening is flared can vary from subtle to extreme, but ideally, it needs to at the very least be able to cover the shaft of your boot without any struggle.

For a truly distinctive and retro western silhouette, a slim upper thigh can really help accentuate the looser calf and bootcut opening. Good cowboy style jeans will also typically feature a higher rise, hugging your natural waist so that they don’t slip.

While shades of blue and indigo tend to be the most classic washes for western jeans (and jeans, period), you can also opt for black, brown, khaki, or even white/off-white denim. At the end of the day, it’s more about the shape and fit.

Western Pant Alternatives

Looking to deviate from the typical denim formula? There are a couple of other options when it comes to western wear pants, though they might require a more discerning eye to pull off.

• Leather pants/jeans: Leather bottoms can work well with a western aesthetic, too. The same rules apply when it comes to fit, however. They can’t be too snug in the wrong places, and need to fit over the tops of your boots. Black and brown are the safest choices.

• Polyester “dress” jeans: Popularized in the 70s, polyester knit “dress” jeans were often cut with an iconic flare as a reference to western style, along with a sharp crease down the leg to give it some shape. Today, you can buy a pair of Wrangler Wranchers to achieve this look, and damn, even though they’re 100% polyester, they’re still a ton of fun.

• Striped “work” pants: These often go by a bunch of names, but their iconic contrasting pinstripes and rugged fabric (often denim or canvas) can still carry a bit of a western flare, or at the very least, a frontier vibe. These don’t necessarily need to have a bootcut, as they’re already cut loose and roomy. Some vintage or vintage-inspired options look great with a pair of casual suspenders.

The Shirt on Your Back: Western Shirts

By now, you probably have a decent understanding of western boots and western jeans (or alternative western-themed) pants. Now this is where things get a bit more flexible – western shirts.

Traditionally men’s western shirts are often made from rugged materials like denim and canvas, but they can also come in lighter fabrics like cotton, linen, and chambray. Their primary characteristics are easy to spot, however.

Most western style shirts are designed with pointed yokes that fall over the shoulders, typically with two points in the front and one on the back. Sometimes this is just a decorative stitching, other times they can be formed by a contrasting fabric entirely, such as suede leather.

Western shirts are also often outfitted with pearl or metal snap buttons, as well as dual breast pockets. Some versions will also feature decorative piping along various seams, though this is a more retro look. A little billowiness in the arms is common, as well. For the best effect, make sure you tuck the shirt into your jeans. Western style may be rugged, but it ain’t sloppy!

Western Shirt Alternatives

If the design of a traditional western shirt doesn’t do it for you, you’ve still got options.

• Denim shirts: While some western shirts are made from denim, a regular denim button down can still embody the western aesthetic. You don’t need to commit to the decorative yokes or pearl snap buttons. A reliable denim shirt is a super versatile garment to own, anyway!

• Plain white t-shirt: You can’t beat the flexibility of a classic white tee. And good news: while old-time cowboys didn’t exactly sport the type of crew-neck t-shirts we wear today, with a contemporary western aesthetic, they still feel right at home. And can look absolutely exceptional when tastefully tucked into a pair of bootcut jeans.

• Flannel shirts: A quality flannel can work perfectly well with a western aesthetic due to its rugged origins. While better suited for cooler temperatures, it’s a pretty safe option that won’t look out of place.

Outer Layers Suited for The Outback

As long as it ain’t blistering hot outside, western wear isn’t exempt from the rule that most outfits benefit from layering.

• One of the more contemporary options is a sherpa-lined denim jacket, which works great when paired with any of the aforementioned shirts in the section above.

• You can also sport a suede western jacket, which will also sometimes include a sherpa collar and similar contrasting yokes to that of a western shirt. If you’re feeling a bit more daring, a fringed leather or suede western jacket is also right on theme. Generally, shades of brown will serve you best for any kind of western jacket.

• There’s also the option to wear a vest! These can vary in weight and materials, which will also determine if it's more of a decorative layer or a proper piece of outerwear. Suede, leather, cotton, denim, and wool are all on the table here, as are decorative details like yokes and fringes.

• Looking to incorporate a bit of tailoring? A western sport coat is a classic piece of American fashion that combines casual fabric with western detailing to great effect. Usually made from materials such as tweed or corduroy, western sport coats are marked by, once again, pointed yokes over the shoulders and back of the jacket. They make dressing up a western outfit look like a breeze.

Western Accessories Make a Cowboy Complete

There are a number of classic western wear accessories that you may want to consider before hitting the trail. Most of these are optional, but can add a lot to the overall look of your cowboy-inspired ensemble.

• Western belts: Characterized by their large and/or intricate buckles, a good western belt should be made from high-quality leather, and almost always match your boots. A cowboy ought to be coordinated!

• Cowboy hats: If you live in Texas or other parts of the south, you likely know all there is to know about cowboy hats. But in other regions, they may be less common. Even so, their iconic shape is perhaps the most identifiable piece of western wear in existence, only rivaled by cowboy boots.

• Bandanas, ascots, and neckerchiefs: An accessory around the neck can add a ton of personality to an outfit, almost acting as a stand-in for a tie that works within a western wear aesthetic (though there is also the bolo tie). They may be small, but they make a bold statement.

Where to Shop for Western Clothing, Boots, Accessories, and More

Now that you’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide to western wear for men, there’s the matter of recommending brands to shop for great western pieces. After all, at Real Men Real Style, we want to help you look your absolute best, from basic advice to specific recommendations. So, here are some reputable places to find quality western fashion – for the discerning gentleman/cowboy.

• Wrangler: One of the most affordable brands on this list, don’t be fooled – Wrangler carries some great quality pieces. Their iconic Cowboy Cut jeans aren’t just the perfect entry-level western jeans – they’re great jeans, period! They also have a great selection of denim shirts, western dress jeans, and a huge variety of western snap shirts!

• Double RL: Ralph Lauren’s Double RL label crafts some of the finest examples of American classics, including a ton of great western wear. Rugged and exceptional quality, this is one brand to keep on your western radar.

• Stetson: Known best for their hats (which are excellent, don’t dismiss this brand’s incredible offerings for boots, clothing, and more! They carry great western jeans, shirts, and accessories for a solid price/quality ratio.

• Dan Post, Tony Lama, Thursday Boot Co., Tecovas, Luchesse: This is just a brief list of some of the many, many brands to choose from when looking for a pair of cowboy boots. From more affordable heritage brands, to newer start-ups, to legendary Luchesse, there’s something for everyone – and more brands than we can cover here.

Western Wrap-Up

We hope you found this guide helpful! Whether you’re new to western wear or if this ain’t your first rodeo, we’re sure you learned a thing or two. At Real Men Real Style, you can count on us for solid advice, definitive guides, and more. So long, partner!

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