To the West, To the West

An Ode to the Outlaw — How to Shop Fashion’s Latest Western Trend

Shows like The Last of Us and Yellowstone, coupled with southern iconography from Beyoncé and Taylor Swift's tours, have created the perfect storm for Western-inspired duds

By Kyle Lamar Rice

Kyle Lamar Rice

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September 12, 2023

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Phipps Fall/Winter 23 Collection

Phipps Fall/Winter 23 Collection Phipps

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When LA-based label Phipps showcased their Fall/Winter 23 collection earlier this year, it emphasized what had been brewing for months — fashion has returned to the West. But this comes at no surprise, as hit series like The Last of Us, The Mandalorian, and Yellowstone platformed ideas of lone rangers, outlaws, and wide open spaces to a global audience. Couple that with Beyoncé and Taylor Swift‘s southern roots on display for their world tours, and you have a potent mix of hypnotic Western iconography.

After decamping from Paris to American soil, Spencer Phipps also chose a quintessentially Western location to host his return to the States. Shot on Big Sky Movie Ranch, a stretch of rolling lands in southern California, this plot is famous for hosting TV and movie scenes like Little House on the Prairie, Twin Peaks, and most recently, Babylon. “I wanted to focus on the core essence of what [the brand] represents,” Phipps noted after his collection debut, referencing his Californian roots and Western appeal. “I think I can do it better in the US. It makes more sense for the brand from a marketing strategy, a business strategy, and also my own personal life.”

Phipps also wasn’t alone. Fashion labels Rhude, Bode, and VTMNTS all showcased overt examples of the West too. From chap-fused denim and custom cowboy hats, to Canadian tuxedos and prairie-style silhouettes, western wear has taken a foothold in fashion.

How to Shop the Western Trend

Remember, when shopping trends, stick with high-quality basics that should blend into your closet, or products that lightly nod to the aesthetic without being so forward. This will keep the pieces feeling more relevant in your wardrobe rotation rather than looking dated in a week. However, we think this trend shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon, and will likely continue to debut for seasons to come.

Considering your closet, we’ve gathered the best western-inspired duds to shop when leaning into your inner cowboy. With boots, denim, jackets, and accessories, you’ll look like an outlaw in no time.

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Hottest Western Clothing and Accessories

Amazon

Western Hats

The staple to any Western look is the hat. Styles range from classic to modern, and the materials are just as vast. Straw cowboy hats make the perfect beachside adornment for your look, while wool and fur felt make more sense in the dry heat. Above all brands is Stetson, a company that’s been around since the 1800s and is credited with creating the first-ever cowboy hat. For over 150 years, the company has been making high-quality goods, so if you’re investing in something that will last your lifetime, this is the brand to look at. Buy Stetson Reg Oval Hat, $90 at Amazon

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Nordstrom

Western Sweaters and Jackets

When looking for a sweater or jacket, start with the material. Tanned leather (or faux leather), suede, and wool are intertwined into the West’s fabric palette. Then, reduce your options using colors and patterns. Desert tones like sand or cactus green are a great base before introducing designs inspired by rich art and storytelling. As Frye has a history with high-quality leather goods, we recommend springing for their Leather Trucker jacket. Its patina look gives it a lived-in feel, and its lack of gimmicky patterns or embellishments means it will stand the test of time. Buy Frye Leather Trucker Jacket, $550 at Nordstrom

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Amazon

Western Denim

If you lack the denim staples to pull off Western flair, we recommend shopping new selections based on the fit. Bootcut and straight-leg jeans have a history with the West, initially designed for sailors in the 1800s before migrating to cowboys and ranch hands. The best fits are tighter on the thighs and butt, showing off those assets, and have a bit of wear on them. For something lower cost, check out Wrangler’s Cowboy Cut Jeans, though we recommend rubbing them in the dirt and washing them a few times before showcasing them. Buy Wrangler Cowboy Cut Jeans, $35 at Amazon

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Ariat

Western Boots

Another staple to the Cowboy look is the cowboy boot. This is also another area where you shouldn’t skimp but rather invest in a high-quality product that can blend within your closet. There are several historic brands to look at, but we recommend Ariat. They were the first to introduce athletic footwear tech into their boots, so whether you’re trained on horseback or plan on walking a mile in your boots, these will give the comfort and support your feet need. Buy Ariat Sport Wide Square Toe Boot, $180 at Ariat

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Ssense

Western Shirts

You don’t have to say “Western” regarding shirts. A simple plaid print or denim material will suffice when making the statement. These are quintessential to any closet, regardless of the Western theme. If your closet lacks this basic, perhaps it’s time to stock up on them. Buy Levi’s Brown Jackson Shirt, $90 at Ssense

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Western Accessories

The accouterments for any outlaw are the accessories. From belts, bags, and shades — These are the final touches you need to pull off the gun-slinging, cattle-roping cowboy of the west. For the last detail, we recommend using a flask to carry your whisky for those late nights by the fire. Buy Stanley Classic Flask, $20 $26 at Amazon

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