How to Wear Summer’s Western Denim Trend

To make a good Western film, you need to have a strong protagonist (preferably a lone, handsome, and heroic figure), the right setting (how about somewhere really dusty?), and a bit of conflict (a “good versus evil” setup typically works well).

Now, to wear a good Western outfit? The lineup is pretty much the same: a strong protagonist (that would be you), the right setting (anywhere you’re looking to have a hog-killin’ time), and a bit of conflict (“what boots should I pair with these perfect jeans?”)

Plus said denim, obviously.

Western style has blown up over the last couple of years—remember last spring’s Coquette Cowgirl trend?—but it’s not going away any time soon. This is especially true when it comes to denim. Ahead, discover everything you need to know about the current wild Western denim landscape.

What Is Western Denim?

“Western denim” describes any piece of denim clothing with some Western flair. Is that not helpful? Well… maybe when you see me riding a horse in these jeans you’ll understand.

According to the design team at Lee (the iconic American denim brand has been around for over *125* years), denim actually has its roots in the American West.

“It was worn by cowboys and ranchers before it made its way into movies and fashion. So there are elements of denim that always lean into Western culture,” they explain.

Typical features of a good pair of Western jeans, as we know them today, include a slightly wide leg opening (bootcut, if you will), ornamental stitching along the seams, fun rivets or buttons, and a high waist. The big belt is sold separately, but certainly adds to the vision.

And of course, the Western denim trend doesn’t stop at pants. You can get Western denim shirts, dusters, tanks, and jackets if you feel so inclined. Black or white denim can be Western, and any wash will work.

“Iconic Lee pieces that feel more of the moment—like a boot cut jean or a chambray shirt with yoke details—are actually very timeless,” the brand adds. “They can be worn a variety of ways and lean into other trends as well,”

Why It’s Trending

Besides the fact that Bella Hadid is in full rodeo mode, we can point our continued love of Western denim to a few key pop culture sources: Beyoncé is bringing all the inspiration, of course. Sabrina Carpenter also furthered its staying power with her “Manchild” music video, where she hitchhikes across the desert with various men while wearing some very cute, very short shorts.

The Lee team also points to the breakout popularity of modern Western TV shows.

“Yellowstone has spawned a full roster of new Western-influenced series and those outfits and music show up elsewhere. Artists like Post Malone have leaned into country music, as well as Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter album release and now world tour creating its own Western vibe,” they explain. “You also see it funneling down from the runways across the globe. It’s an iconic American look that’s very wearable, nostalgic, and always that effortless cool attitude.”

Also: You never know when someone might ask you to go line dancing. It’s important to have your closet stocked.

How to Wear Western Denim

You can incorporate Western denim pieces into your wardrobe without going full Stagecoach. The jeans look so cute with a plain tank or your guava girl pieces du jour. You could even swap out boots for jelly shoes.

The Lee team’s advice? “Begin by rethinking what you already own.”

“If you own a denim jacket and straight or bootcut jeans, pair those together with a cowboy boot. Or, add a flare jean and chambray shirt in similar washes. Top your favorite maxi sundress with a denim vest and pair with boots.”

And if you’re aching to shop… maybe start with the brand’s famous Western Shirt?

“Our Western Shirt is also a timeless, iconic style that is the perfect ‘nod’ to the Western trend that shows up in our pinnacle 101 collection in premium denims fabrications and into the full Lee collection in amazing washes to give that character and authenticity we are known for.”

Ahead, shop the style and some of our other favorite Western Denim picks.