Monday, April 8, 2024

From Cowboy Boots To Double Denim, How To Style The Western Fashion Trend

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All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

On any given day, your odds of seeing someone in cowboy boots have probably quadrupled from this time two years ago — regardless of your proximity to horse stables. The Western fashion trend and, more recently, dubbed by TikTokers as Coastal Cowgirl and Cowboycore aesthetics have been rising in popularity to make 2024 the year of the rodeo

This year, the trend’s biggest influence has undoubtedly been Cowboy Carter, Beyonce’s new country-inspired album that has broken several streaming records since its March 29 release. For months, the singer has teased us with glamorous Western-inspired ‘fits, including the latex chaps, heeled boots, and cowboy hat featured on the album cover. (Western fashion was also present during her Renaissance tour last year.) 

And it’s not just Beyoncé who’s pushing the horse girl agenda. Western fashion has dominated Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, defined the camp costumes in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, and broke the internet earlier this year when Bella Hadid debuted her new equestrian hobby and her Texas cowboy boyfriend. On the designer fashion end, fringe details, cowboy hats, and endless double denim appeared on the fall/winter 2024 runways.

While it’s fun to lean into the latest trends for concerts and events, Western fashion may not seem the easiest to integrate into your daily wardrobe. But, whether you’re daunted by ostentatious, wide-brimmed hats or feel unsure about how to style cowboy boots, fret not, because there are tons of ways to try the style without looking like a fraud and successfully avoid a trip to the donation bin by the end of the year. 

Ahead, find Western-inspired pieces you can wear to the Cowboy Carter tour if you’re lucky enough to score tickets, to your next night out, and perhaps even your next day in the office. As Beyoncé says in her song “Levi’s Jeans,” all you need is “denim on denim on denim on denim; give you high fashion in a simple white tee.” Whatever Beyoncé says, we do. 

How To Style The Western Trend: A Cowboy Hat

The diamond-encrusted cowboy hats Beyoncé debuted on Renaissance back in 2022 are still living rent-free in our minds. Whether you’re looking to invest in a traditional style from a Western-wear brand like Stetson (which Beyoncé wore to the 2024 Grammy Awards) or a denim cowboy hat to rock for spring and summer, the trick to mastering this look is all about confidence.

How To Wear The Cowboy Trend: Subtle Detailing

If you’re new to the wild side, saddle up with subtle details like Western-inspired trims or embellishments; a belt with cowboy-style hardware can take jeans and a white tee from “yee” to “haw.” Because Western styles are trending this season, you’ll find plenty of subtle nods to the trend — look out for geometric crochet patterns, metallic studs, and muted color blocks.

How To Style The Western Trend: Cowboy Boots

Sturdy, knee-high, statement-making cowboy boots are the epitome of the trend, but they’re not the only footwear option for us Coastal Cowgirls. If the traditional cowboy boot doesn’t suit your everyday style, consider ankle-length alternatives, biker boots with metal hardware, and stiletto boots with a Western-inspired pattern.

How To Wear The Cowboy Trend: Cow Print

Take inspiration from the cattle farm with a touch of cow print this season. A Western alternative to this season’s leopard print trend, the look comes in lots of different colors, saturations, and intensities. If a cow-print coat a la Saks Potts isn’t your thing, opt for a graphic pop in the form of accessories.

How To Style The Western Trend: Denim on Denim

Single, double, or triple denim… anything goes when channelling your inner Cowboy Carter. Denim styling made a huge splash on the fall/winter 2024 runways and is probably the easiest Western aesthetic to integrate into your wardrobe. While the Canadian Tuxedo is your most classic approach, Western-inspired denim can also include fringed jackets, jumpsuits, and patchwork styles.

How To Wear The Cowboy Trend: Cowboy Motifs

Prefer to take the obvious but quirky route? Let your clothes and accessories do the talking with cactus prints, cowboy graphics (preferably with rodeo-approved lingo), and cutesy motifs of horseshoes and Western boots. Next step? Hopping on a flight to Houston, Texas. 

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25 Reader-Favorite March Purchases — From Steals To Splurges

March 2024 brought us a Ken-ergetic Oscars performance, tons of celeb pregnancy announcements, and Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine album. But more excitingly (IMO), it brought us R29 readers’ new host of best-selling products. According to our anonymous shopping data, you all stocked up on spring-ready closet staples, cost-friendly skincare finds, several suction vibrators, and limited-edition collaborations alike.

From a $15 beauty steal to a $500 luggage splurge, there was a wide range of products that R29 editors reviewed in March, and ultimately that R29 readers approved of. Shoppers predominately carted up brand new product launches while also gravitating towards reader-favorite retailers like Target, The Ordinary, Anthropologie, and Carl Friedrick. So But if you weren’t one of those shoppers who hopped on these sought-after products, click on to see which items are most worth your hard-earned money, according to your fellow R29 readers.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Lululemon Dance Studio Relaxed-Fit Mid-Rise Cargo Jogger


According to our anonymous shopping data, Refinery29 readers were eager to cart up these “lightweight cargo pants that go from the studio to street” after covering them in our Lululemon spring drop story. But if this isn’t your style, readers also gravitated towards the brand’s twill blazer (which R29 Senior Writer Karina Hoshikawa reviewed), roomy duffle backpack, and casual walking sneaker

Shop Lululemon

Lululemon Dance Studio Relaxed-Fit Mid-Rise Cargo Jogger, $, available at Lululemon

Free-est Mila Mini Dress


Ever since Affiliate Writer Esther Newman called out this bohemian dress in our Free People editors’ picks roundup, it has been selling non-stop. From what we can tell, R29 readers love the breezy silhouette and spring-ready colorways. This style is also very versatile, as Esther suggested it “can double up as a tunic top over jeans on chilly, transitional spring days.”

Shop Free People

free-est Mila Mini Dress, $, available at Free People

Tracy’s Dog OG FLOW 2-in-1 Clit Sucking Vibrator


Last month, many readers carted up this on-sale Tracy’s Dog sex toy after we previously highlighted it as one of the best suction vibrators. But a close second was the same brand’s OG Sucking Vibrator — which has been praised by former Sexual Health & Wellness Writer Charlotte Lewis — and which is half the price.

Shop Tracy’s Dog

Tracy's Dog OG FLOW 2-in-1 Clit Sucking Vibrator, $, available at tracy's dog

Skims Wireless Form Push-Up Plunge Bra


If you’re bra shopping and are overwhelmed by all the options out there, take our advice (and a sign from one of R29 readers’ most popular purchases) and buy yourself Skims’ wireless push-up bra. Karina and I each reviewed this style a while back, and our love for it has continued to influence readers to jump on the buttery-soft bra brandwagon. This style has minimal padding while offering a push-up effect and the plunge neckline is great for low-cut tops.

Shop Skims

Skims Wireless Form Push-Up Plunge Bra, $, available at Skims

Coach Swinger 20 Bag


If you’re looking to incorporate denim into your wardrobe in a fresh way, consider a denim bag. We’re a big fan of Coach’s denim Soho Bag, but the style, which R29 readers carted up themselves, quickly sold out. So if you want a similar style, consider this mini denim shoulder bag, which is ridiculously sweet and edgy at the same time.  

Shop Coach

Coach Swinger 20 Bag, $, available at Coach

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion


The top-bought product in March was The Ordinary’s new retinal serum, with nearly 90 reader purchases — and it also happens to be the most affordable item in this roundup. Deputy Beauty Director Jacqueline Kilikita suggests this product for seasoned retinoid users, like herself, while Karina hypes it up for those with acne-prone skin. The gel-cream emulsion promises to unclog pores, minimize hyperpigmentation, improve collagen production, and smooth skin texture, so for under-$15, it’s a no-brainer.

Shop The Ordinary

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, $, available at The Ordinary

DVF for Target Collared Sleeveless Modern Jumpsuit


We already knew R29 readers loved Target, but the retailer’s collaboration with Diane von Furstenberg really cemented their love for affordable luxury. So much of the limited-edition collection has sold out; however, there are still a few iconic wrap dresses and patterned jumpsuits that can be purchased. Just note that you’ll want to jump on those styles ASAP. 

Shop Target

Diane von Furstenberg for Target Collared Sleeveless Pink Modern Geo Jumpsuit, $, available at Target

Nomasei Nono Moccasins


Celebrity-approved French shoe brand Nomasei is also R29 reader-approved. After covering the growing brand, readers started carting up its popular Nono moccasins. If these loafers are good enough for Blake Lively and Bella Hadid, they’re certainly good enough for us. Just ask R29 Fashion Director Irina Grechko who owns and adores the brand’s heeled Trench moccasins.

Shop Nomasei

Nomasei Nono Moccasins, $, available at Nomasei

Abercrombie & Fitch Plunge Cowl Back Maxi Dress


According to our anonymous shopping data, Abercrombie & Fitch ranked as Refinery29’s top-selling retailer in March. R29 readers simply love the brand, and most recently, have been interested in its new Wedding Shop. This slinky dress has been positioned as a casual wedding dress option in white, but can also easily be a wedding guest dress in any of its black or spring-ready colorways.

Shop Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Plunge Cowl Back Maxi Dress, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

LEVOIT 3-in-1 Air Purifier


We jumped on Amazon’s first-ever Big Spring Sale, and shared what we were carting up while there were mega discounts. While the sale is now over, many R29 readers related to R29 Newsletter Director Lisa Dioniso’s pick. Lisa already owned a larger LEVOIT air purifier, but wanted this smaller, sleep-friendly version to add into her bedroom (and to combat her spring allergies).

Shop Amazon

Levoit 3-in-1 Air Purifier, $, available at Amazon

Carl Friedrick The Carry-On


Carl Friedrick has a hold on R29 readers, and on R29 Senior Travel Writer Venus Wong, who owns several suitcases from the brand, and most recently reviewed The Carry-On. Venus enjoys the luxurious hard-shell, leather-trimmed suitcase so much that she even labeled it as some of the best luggage for international travel.

Shop Carl Friedrick

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On, $, available at Carl Friedrik

Everlane x Marques' Almeida Canvas Patchwork Jacket


Everlane’s first-ever collab was met with a lot of love by R29 readers, who carted up a whole range of limited-edition pieces, including this environmentally friendly patchwork jacket. A lot of the collection is sold out, but there are still some reader-approved items like a knit-mesh tunic and matching cropped cardigan

Shop Everlane

Everlane x Marques' Almeida Canvas Patchwork Jacket, $, available at Everlane

Margo Paige Clear Fringe Crossbody


Another eco-conscious pick comes from Margo Paige. The brand sells sustainable (and wallet-friendly) clear bags that are perfect for concert venue restrictions. We’re particularly loving this fringe style for festival season

Shop Margo Paige

Margo Paige Clear Fringe Crossbody, $, available at Margo Paige

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Topper


R29 readers jumped on purchasing this editor-favorite mattress topper, which was further discounted for President’s Day. The good news is that it’s still on sale and ready to be carted up for good-sleeping-goodness.

Shop Tempur-Pedic

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Topper, $, available at Tempur-Pedic

Zara Limited-Edition Mixed Sequin Dress


Most of Zara’s Spring 2024 Studio Collection almost immediately sold out, but not before R29 readers got their credit cards out. The most popular item they purchased was this vintage-inspired cocktail dress, which is (luckily!) still available to shop.

Shop Zara

Zara Limited-Edition Mixed Sequin Dress, $, available at Zara

The Inkey List Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturizer


Jackie has proclaimed her love for this The Inkey List $20 moisturizer, which prompted over 30 readers to purchase the product themselves. And if you aren’t one of those readers, now’s your chance to swoop on this product, because it’s currently on sale while Sephora’s Saving Event lasts.

Shop Sephora

The Inkey List Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora

Mother Denim The Curbside Flood


One of 2024’s top denim trends is barrel leg jeans, and R29 readers have been liking these distressed high-waisted jeans. So if you’re also interested (but hesitant) to take on the trend, this silhouette is subtle enough that you won’t feel out of place wearing them.

Shop Mother Denim

Mother Denim The Curbside Flood, $, available at Mother Denim

Lelo Enigma Cruise


Another highly-rated suction vibrator comes from Lelo. The luxury sex toy also happens to be editor-vetted (Charlotte didn’t want to gatekeep the dual-stimulation massager any longer) and reader-approved. And right now, it's discounted for 25% off. 

Shop Lelo

LELO Enigma Cruise, $, available at LELO

Bloomers Tiara Lace Bralette


Karina reviewed Bloomers’ “sexy granny panties” and appreciated that the matching lace set was just comfortable as it was stylish. Several R29 editors have owned and raved about Bloomers underwear and pajamas, so readers finally jumped on the bandwagon and bought themselves this lace bralette.

Shop Bloomers

Bloomers Tiara Lace Bralette, $, available at Bloomers

Aupen Nirvana Bag


Aupen is beloved by celebs from Hailey Bieber to Olivia Rodrigo to Selena Gomez. And their purses have also been a bestselling product for R29 readers for a while now. While many readers carted up this Fearless bag, notably worn by Kylie Jenner, the style is now sold out. But if you're craving an Aupen bag ASAP, then check out the similar asymmetric Nirvana bag approved by Taylor Swift herself. 

Shop Aupen

Aupen Nirvana Bag, $, available at Aupen

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water


Another Amazon Big Spring Sale editor-approved and reader-fave product was this Bioderma micellar water, recommended by Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager Kate Spencer. She appreciates the gentle-for-skin, unscented formula and uses it as her go-to makeup remover. Readers were pretty evenly split between carting up this 8.4-ounce bottle and the 16.7-ounce bottle.

Shop Amazon

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, $, available at Amazon

Mango Worn Leather Effect Jacket


We’re not quite sure what recently prompted several readers to shop for this particular Mango leather jacket, which was seen on Gigi Hadid last October, but we get it —  the sold-out style is the ultimate cool-girl closet staple. So if you’re also drawn to this oversized silhouette, consider the alternative here, which still has some sizes available, for more than half the price. 

Shop Mango

Mango Worn Leather Effect Jacket, $, available at Mango

Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment in Vanilla


Very few celebrity beauty products are as iconic, desired, and genuinely as good as Hailey Bieber’s Rhode peptide lip treatment, which several R29 editors have reviewed. In March, the limited-edition Vanilla Cake flavor was a reader-favorite. However, with that flavor now sold out, you can instead cart up the similar Vanilla flavor!

Shop Rhode

Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment in Vanilla, $, available at Rhode

Milla Classy Midi Dress with Open Neckline


Looking for a new luxurious couture-quality dress that’s actually affordable? Look no further than Milla. R29 readers have shown their interest in Milla (which is a more cost-friendly sub-brand of the original Milla Nova bridal brand), and our eyes are personally on this on-sale cocktail dress that could effortlessly fit into so many people’' wardrobes and be a perfect option for wedding season.

Shop Milla

Milla Classy Midi Dress with Open Neckline, $, available at Milla

Bellesa Pebble Vibrator


And finally, this Bellesa vibrator is still going strong since we featured it in January’s best-selling product roundup. The ergonomical sex toy is a reader-favorite because of its small size, five-intensity suction settings, and its under-$100 price tag. 

Shop BBoutique

Bellesa Pebble Vibrator, $, available at BBoutique

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25 Wardrobe Must-Haves, According To Shopbop’s Fashion Director

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All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

A celebration is in order: Fashion retailer Shopbop is turning 25 years old. To mark the milestone, the shopping destination — that has carried some of our favorite established and emerging brands and season’s biggest trends year after year— has released an anniversary campaign “25 Years of Style Moments,” with exclusive drops from fan-favorite brands and in-person pop-up shops on the way.

With a quarter century of fashion experience, Shopbop knows a thing — or 25! — about what makes a wardrobe must-have that can stand the test of time. With that in mind, we tapped Shopbop Fashion Director Caroline Maguire to find out what closet additions to invest in this spring and summer — and wear year-round. Ahead, a selection of clothing, accessories, and one beauty product that everyone should have in their fashion arsenal, according to Maguire.

Wardrobe Essential: Wide-leg Jeans

“Slouchy wide-leg jeans are the perfect style to transition your wardrobe through the seasons, year to year. I love that the rip-and-repair style is making a huge comeback.”

Wardrobe Essential: White T-shirt

“White T-shirts are always an essential part of any wardrobe. For an interesting update to the basic white tee, try a novel iteration like this ringer style.”

Wardrobe Essential: Two-strap Sandal

“A two-strap sandal is a must for your closet. Update your latest pair with some color.”

Wardrobe Essential: Trucker Hats

Trucker hats are a fun way to mix it up on the beach or pool scene, bringing the laid-back vibes. It’s a throwback style that will always have a place in my closet.”

Wardrobe Essential: Trench Coat

“Everyone needs a timeless trench coat, and this J.W. Anderson one has a gathered waist, giving you a defined silhouette.”

Wardrobe Essential: Khaki Bottoms

“Khaki-colored, tailored bottoms — whether a trouser or mini skirt — is a wardrobe staple that can carry you through spring, summer, and fall and pairs well with just about anything.”

Wardrobe Essential: Tote Bag

“The perfect carry-all tote is an ideal companion for office days and weekend getaways.”

Wardrobe Essential: Bucket Hat

“Straw bucket hats are a must for summer beach days year after year — they protect you from the sun and the material keeps you looking and feeling cool.”

Wardrobe Essential: Raglan Tee

“A raglan tee is such a classic base layer. Worn with a great pair of denim and Converse sneakers, you’re ready to do just about anything.”

Wardrobe Essential: Matching Set

Matching sets are a wardrobe must. Whether you’re traveling or lounging around, they’re super chic and make you feel instantly put-together with ease.”

Wardrobe Essential: Bikini Top

“The cut of this keyhole top is so flattering; it’s just a peek of skin but adds style and interest to an otherwise basic bandeau.”

Wardrobe Essential: Printed Pants

“These pants deliver multiple pops of fun color. It’s easy to stick to wearing solids, but a bold pattern like this will bring your outfit to the next level.”

Wardrobe Essential: Black Dress

“There’s nothing quite like a timeless black dress. This midi dress combines a flowy twill fabric with tougher metals. It creates that balance of hard-and-soft I’m always looking for.”

Wardrobe Essential: Flat-top Sunglasses

“Flat-top sunnies bring a nostalgic vibe and are a go-to for an easy and classic look dressed up or dressed down.”

Wardrobe Essential: Midi Dress

“Midi dresses are great for any season… depending on the shape, material, and how you style it. I’ll be wearing this effortless style from Azeeza in chambray on repeat this spring and summer. I can see this being a more casual look with sneakers or more of a cocktail look with a chic strappy heel.”

Wardrobe Essential: Not-so-basic Denim

“It’s important to have an interesting pair of denim. These twisted jeans from J.W. Anderson will go with everything in your closet.”

Wardrobe Essential: Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings are an elegant staple for accessorizing. I never take them off! I especially love mixing gold and silver tones.”

Wardrobe Essential: Sleeveless Hoodie

“A sleeveless hoodie is super lightweight, keeping you warm and comfortable.”

Wardrobe Essential: Ballet Flats

Ballet flats are practical and a smart alternative if you can’t run around in sandals — especially for an NYC girl like me, they come in handy. I love this feminine, colorful pair from 3.1 Phillip Lim.”

Wardrobe Essential: Mary Jane Shoes

“I love that flats are having a real moment again. Tabi Mary Janes can elevate any look so easily.”

Wardrobe Essential: Colorful Bag

“A colorful accessory makes any outfit more exciting.”

Wardrobe Essential: Layerable Necklaces

“You can never have too many necklaces on your stack. Add a pop of color on those extra joyful spring and summer days!”

Wardrobe Essential: Bomber Jacket

“Bomber jackets are the perfect transitional piece and layer to add to your outfit, no matter the occasion.”

Wardrobe Essential: Narrow-Frame Sunglasses

“Great to have a narrow-frame option in your collection to keep your style varied. This Gucci pair is my new go-to!”

Wardrobe Essential: Lip Gloss

“A glossy lip is a nice finishing touch. I love this Forget the Filler Plumper from LAWLESS in the color George.”

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