Winter always invites us to update our wardrobe with a comfortable, chic pair of boots. But if you weren’t expecting western, country-style boots to be top of the most-wanted list this year, you are not alone.
A staple of Americana fashion, the cowboy boot has made its way back into our wardrobes over the past few months, spurred on by a number of influential counterparts.
There’s the skyrocketing popularity of country music of course. Stars like Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, and most recently Dasha’s boot-scootin’ line dancing TikTok hit “Austin”. Of course, there’s also the more mainstream genre swerve by Beyonce, who has embraced her country era with new album ‘Cowboy Carter,’ appropriately clad in sleek cowboy hat and boots.
In the fashion realm, there’s the surprising dominant influence of Scandinavian street-style favourite brand Ganni, who has turned out a selection of elaborately stitched and coloured boots over the past year or so, quickly snapped up by a host of celebrities and fans alike.
High boots L-R: Kathryn Wilson; Mi Piaci, R.M. Williams, Alias Mae, Zara
There’s undeniable appeal in the cool, subtly elevating heel height and flattering shape, as well as being turned out in the perfect tones to accent outfits in denim or simple black and white.
Leather runs from vintage-looking aged tans and browns, to oxblood and shiny cherry red, with both ankle and knee-skimming styles being worn the world over, regardless of season.
Low boots L-R: Zimmermann, La Tribe, Ganni, Paris Texas
The good news is that everyone wants in on the boot action, so there are currently options at every shoe brand from fast fashion retailers, to top-end designers.
While wearing with a pair of cut-offs to Euro summer festivals feels a bit passe, throwing them on with a long skirt and sleeveless vest is more 2024. It’s about subverting expectations of how you’re used to seeing them, choosing more tailored tops, slouchy, oversized jackets and wide-leg pants, than plaid shirts and fringed suede. One classic they still work well with? Denim, so pull on your blue jeans and kick up your heels.
