The 11 Best Cowboy Boots for Women to Embrace Western Style
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With picks from brands like Jeffrey Campbell, Isabel Marant, and more.
InStyle / Alli Waataja
Cowboy boots used to be reserved for, well, cowboys, as well as festivals and parties, but these days they’re so much more than that. Western-style boots have been taking over the runways of late, and they’re the latest “it” item for fashion girls in the know (although we’re still partial to wearing a pair to Coachella, of course!). Also, you may be picturing a classic, mid-calf brown leather boot — and there are certainly some beautiful ones of these out there — but cowboy boots now also come in all shapes and sizes, with tall and short options, and boots in bright colors or metallic finishes as well.
Because we love a beautiful and/or very fun cowboy boot, we researched the best ones on the market right now, from high-end designer picks from Isabel Marant or Paris Texas, to heritage boots that will last a lifetime from Lucchese or Frye, to affordable alternatives from Amazon or Madden Girl. To help us on our way, we spoke to fashion stylists and experts, who kindly shared their recommendations and best styling tips.
Best Overall: Jeffrey Campbell Dagget Western Boot
What We Love: They’re cute, comfy, and versatile.
What We Don’t Love: The metallic options aren't for everyday wear.
These boots are definitely a crowd-pleaser. “My absolute favorites are the Jeffrey Campbell Dagget Boots,” says Gabriela Rosales, a fashion stylist and founder of The Stylist Witch. “They are uncannily comfortable and can be styled so many ways! Plus, the glamour of the metallic finish is so iconic.” Stylist Ashlyn Greer agrees: “[The boots are] sure to be the wow moment to any look," she says, proposing a jeans and T-shirt pairing for day and a dressed-up mini for a night out.” (For a more understated look either way, we also love the classic black color.)
Rosales also explains that she lives part-time in the desert and that these are super practical for weathering that terrain all while looking stunning. Not just a pretty face, then! Fans of these boots concur that the Dagget is incredibly comfy and versatile, just as great for pairing with a sundress as they are with the traditional country blue jeans.
Size: 6–11 | Material: Leather | Heel Height: 3 inches
Best Budget: Ouepiano Women's Western Cowboy Embroidered Mid Calf Boots
What We Love: They’re an amazing Jeffrey Campbell dupe.
What We Don’t Love: They won’t last as long as a real leather pair.
If you love the look of Jeffrey Campbell’s Dagget but have a smaller budget to invest in cowboy boots, Amazon carries this amazing dupe for a fraction of the price. They’re made from faux leather, which is how they’re able to keep the price down, so just be aware that they’re likely not to last as long as a real leather pair. Despite this, though, happy customers say they’re actually incredibly comfortable and are totally suitable for dancing at Stagecoach for hours on end if that’s on your agenda. That’s partly because they feature a non-slip outsole and cushioned insole for added comfort, which we love.
Overall, these boots are so much fun and make the perfect finishing touch to any party or concert outfit you’re planning, whether you’re feeling a loud green metallic option or a pair embellished with adorable butterfly motifs. The 2-inch heel is also perfect for lending you a little extra height but without hurting your feet if you’re standing for a long time. Such a good design.
Size: 5–12 | Material: Faux leather | Heel Height: 2 inches
Best Splurge: Isabel Marant 40mm Two-Tone Leather Western Boots
What We Love: They’re very well made and thoughtfully designed.
What We Don’t Love: They’re not concert-appropriate.
There are two main reasons to buy cowboy boots: to wear to country concerts, bars, and themed parties, or to style as a statement on the reg. Well, these by Isabel Marant weren’t exactly made for having beer poured on them during an overly enthusiastic honky tonk session, since they’re — first of all — a splurgy designer item, as well as made from delicate calf leather and calf suede. “My favorite is an Isabel Marant boot, which has a higher price point and is definitely more fashionable than functional,” says personal stylist and fashion blogger Tara West. “It looks great styled with a dress, skirt, shorts, and jeans.”
Anyway, despite being delicate, these are incredibly well-made and a really sound investment. The two-toned finish, western-style stitching, pointed toe, and slanted block heel are so thoughtfully designed, and are sure to make you look both right on trend and super sleek — whether you’re off to work or to dinner on the town.
Size: EU35–EU41 | Material: Calf leather, calf suede | Heel Height: 1.6 inches
Best Designer: Paris Texas Dakota Suede Boots
What We Love: They’re perfect for everyday wear and styling.
What We Don’t Love: The off-white color will get dirty with everyday wear.
These are another clear-cut fashion boot, and they’re so easy to style for pretty much any regular occasion (though, again, we would advise against taking off-white suede boots to a particularly rowdy bar). They’re “the ultimate neutral boot: stylish, simple, and will work with so many outfits,” says U.K.-based stylist Emma Lightbown. “Style with denim cut-offs for that festival vibe or pair with a midi dress for a feminine feel.”
Hitting at mid-calf and featuring a medium-height slanted block heel, these boots are particularly easy to wear, and can totally work as a basic in your wardrobe, since they’ll be comfortable to walk in on your commute or while meeting friends, and aren’t too loud to wear to work for example. The pointed toe also gives them a little extra flair.
Size: IT35–IT42 | Material: Calf suede | Heel Height: 2.5 inches
Best Comfortable: Tecovas The Annie
What We Love: They have little to no break-in period.
What We Don’t Love: Most people need to size down.
“This is a classic cowboy boot from an authentic Texas brand,” says Greer. “Tecovas are hand-made from high-quality leather and are sure to stand the test of time. The mid-calf length and scalloped shape make this a super flattering style with any look.” We agree: These embroidered boots look just as cool and classic with daisy dukes, mini-skirts, and feminine dresses as they do over a good ol’ pair of jeans.
We also appreciate that these come in a great range of neutrals or neutral-adjacent tones as well as different finishes, so you can get exactly the boot you’re looking for. Plus, they’re really on the lower end of the price scale when it comes to authentic and high-quality cowboy boots. Speaking of quality, these boots garner absolute rave reviews. They’re incredibly comfortable, with little to no break-in period, and are so versatile you can totally live in them. Just note that you’ll likely need to size down.
Size: 5–12 | Material: Goat leather, bovine leather, calfskin leather, or suede | Heel Height: 2 inches
Best Tall: Lucchese Laurelie
What We Love: It’s a traditional style made to high standards.
What We Don’t Love: Some people need to size up.
Lucchese is a legacy bootmaker founded by an Italian immigrant to San Antonio, Texas in 1883. Ever since then, Lucchese boots have remained a firm favorite among cowboys and fashion mavens alike, only growing in prestige over the intervening decades — and even debuting collabs with the likes of Chris Stapleton and Stephanie Quayle.
The Laurelie is a pretty traditional cowboy boot, which comes in either black cowhide leather or tan floral nubuck, both with beautiful hand-stitched patterns along the quarter. While their shape is largely quite classic, they feature a 13-inch shaft for those who prefer a taller boot style, as well as a three-inch heel to lend you a little height and elongate your silhouette. Since these boots don’t come cheap, you’ll be expecting high quality from these — and high quality is what you’ll get: Lucchese die-hards say they’re insanely comfortable, even on first wear. Lastly, most people find the fit on these is perfect, though some had to size up.
Size: 6–11 | Material: Cowhide leather or nubuck | Heel Height: 3 inches
Best Short: FP Collection New Frontier Western Boot
What We Love: They go with pretty much any outfit.
What We Don’t Love: You should probably size up.
“Free People is my go-to recommendation for cowboy boots,” says stylist and creative consultant Lauren Glazer. “I have had these white Free People cowboy boots since 2021 and they were comfy from the get-go. I’m a sucker for a white boot as I think a pop of white is really giving to most outfits.” In fact, Glazer loved the New Frontiers so much that she also got herself a pair in brown leather (though they come in non neutrals like coral, mustard yellow, and blue-gray, too).
These boots aren’t just adorable; they’re also practical. “I’ve walked around town on my day-to-day appointments as a stylist in these cowboy boots,” says Glazer. “They are a very comfy boot option and I can really confirm ‘these boots are made for walking.’ With that in mind, the expert cautions you’re best off ordering these one size up, since they run small. As for how to style them, it couldn’t be simpler: They go great with cropped pants and any length of skirt, so don’t be afraid to get creative here!
Size: 6–11 | Material: Washed leather | Heel Height: 2 inches
Best Fringe: Lane Women’s Fringe Star Western Boots
What We Love: They’re guaranteed to make you the life of the party.
What We Don’t Love: We wish they came in more colorways.
White and adorned with both silver metallic stars in the front and silver metallic fringe that looks like it’s coming down from a rainbow on the side, these Lane boots aren't for the faint of heart — and will absolutely make you the life of the party without even trying. Cut from genuine leather and designed with a classic snip toe and western heel, these have country music star written all over them. Plus, with the interior zip, you won’t need to pull these on and off forcefully, which is always helpful.
Size: 6.5–11 | Material: Leather | Heel Height: Not listed
Best Classic: Frye Billy Pull On Boot
What We Love: They’re made from soft, flexible, high-quality leather.
What We Don’t Love: They take quite a bit of breaking in.
“Another well-known brand that has the chicest cowboy boots is Frye,” says West. “When you buy a Frye boot, you know it will be comfortable, sleek, and last a lifetime.” This particular style is as classic as they come, with a shaft that comes up to mid-calf, a pointed toe, and a thick sole with hardly any heel.
These cowboy boots are made from soft, flexible, high-quality leather from top to toe (literally), including a sole that moves with you as you make your way to where you’re going. That also means they’re just as good for walking around the countryside as they are for a spot of line dancing. And if you’re on the market for something a little extra, you can grab a sparkly silver version on Amazon. Unfortunately, these do take a while to break in, so maybe don’t buy them the day before a big event.
Size: 6–11 | Material: Washed leather | Heel Height: 2 inches
Best for Wide Calves: Ariat Heritage R Toe StretchFit Western Boot
What We Love: They come in “medium” and “wide” widths and stretch to fit your calf.
What We Don’t Love: They can feel a bit tight around the foot.
Ariat is also a much-loved classic brand, but this time with more approachable price tags. “Another authentic craftsmanship brand, this red boot from Ariat is our top pick [at Fashivly],” says Greer. “The hue can read as a more interesting neutral and work with almost any look, and it's the perfect pairing for the cowboy boot's best friend this summer: a white maxi skirt.” If you prefer a more low-key look, these do also come in more traditional dark tan, distressed brown, or black deertan.
Not only do these full-grain leather boots come in “medium” or “wide” widths, but they’re also made from StretchFit material, which means they’re a breeze to put on and they fit wider calves and move with you as your body changes — although unfortunately they can feel a bit tight around the foot. They also feature a cushioned insole for comfort and a more durable sole that can weather many figurative storms. These fit true to size and take very little breaking in.
Size: 5.5–12 | Material: Full-grain leather | Heel Height: Not listed
Best Heeled: Schutz Maryana Block Casual West Atanado Prime Leather Boot
What We Love: They’re a beautifully detailed style.
What We Don’t Love: Not much at all.
We don’t need to sell you this boot — look at it, the thing sells itself, with its two-toned, high-shaft gorgeousness. “For those that are looking for a little more polish, this is a great option to get in on the Western trend while still staying true to your own style,” says Greer. “These boots pair great with a slip dress for a night out, and wear them with a trouser or jeans to have a two-in-one style — they'll look just like a black pointed toe-boot with longer pants.” They’re also available in a blue-jean color and a silver, but the cream and black version is particularly special, thanks to pink and orange embellishments, and little stars around the collar.
These are perfect for anyone looking to add a bit more height to their look, which can literally and figuratively elevate any simple look — but thanks to the block heel style, they also won’t be super painful to walk in like a stiletto heel might be. They’re also made from supple leather all over, so you’ll feel great in them all day long. Frankly, there’s not much wrong with these at all; we just love them.
Size: 5–11 | Material: Leather | Heel Height: 3.3 inches
What to Keep in Mind
Color: There are two kinds of cowboy boots: functional, low-key ones, and statement, fun ones. Which you go for really depends on your personal taste as well as what you’re planning to wear them for — a bright metallic boot is perfect for a weekend trip to Nashville, but a classic brown is easier to style. “Choose a color that suits your personal style and complements your wardrobe,” says Lightbown. “Traditional colors like brown and black are versatile and can be paired with various outfits. However, cowboy boots are available in a range of colors, including bold statement shades, so you can select something that reflects your individual taste.”
Height: Cowboy boots can go up to your ankle, your mid-calf, or your knee, and different heights tend to complement different outfits. “With short skirts, I like a shorter boot, and jeans look great with a taller boot,” says West. “If you’re on the taller side, a tall cowboy boot will look great with most things. If you’re shorter in stature, I’d choose a shorter boot, as the tall ones might make you appear smaller.”
Material: “Cowboy boots are typically made from leather, but the type and quality of leather can vary,” says Lightbown. “Full-grain leather is durable and ages well, while exotic leathers like snakeskin or ostrich provide a unique more costly aesthetic. Consider the leather's quality, durability, and maintenance requirements when choosing your boots.” You can also grab a pair in faux leather if you have a smaller budget and/or if you prefer a vegan shoe. For Rosales, both leather and faux leather provide the comfort you’ll be looking for. “This gives them the perfect slouch and flexibility to easily take them on and off and like any other leather boots, they will mold themselves to your legs and feet,” she says.
Your Questions, Answered
How long does it take to break in cowboy boots?
There will probably be a bit of a break-in period for your cowboy boots unless you’ve purchased a particularly stretchy style like our pick from Ariat. “The break-in period for cowboy boots can vary depending on the individual, the boots themselves, and the materials used,” says Lightbown. “It generally takes some time for the leather to soften and mold to your feet. You can expect the boots to become more comfortable after a few weeks of regular wear.” The expert says you can wear thick socks, or wear the boots in your house at first to help speed up the process.
Should you size up in cowboy boots?
There isn’t a definitive answer to whether or not you should size up in cowboy boots, and it’s smart to read the reviews before purchasing a particular style since sizing can vary quite a bit. “When it comes to sizing cowboy boots, it is often recommended to size down rather than size up,” says Lightbown. “Cowboy boots should fit snugly around the instep and have a little room for your toes to move. Leather boots tend to stretch and mold to your feet over time, so starting with a slightly snug fit can help ensure a comfortable fit once they are broken in.”
Why Shop With Us
Iris Goldsztajn is a London-based freelance writer covering fashion, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. To write this roundup, she researched the most popular styles and spoke to various fashion experts who shared their recommendations: Gabriela Rosales, a fashion stylist and founder of The Stylist Witch; stylist and Fashivly cofounder Ashlyn Greer; personal stylist and fashion blogger Tara West; stylist and creative consultant Lauren Glazer; and stylist Emma Lightbown.
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