Cowboy cosplay is coming in 2023! | fashion trends

Patchwork boots, plaid shirts, miniskirts, bootcut jeans, leather pants, lots of fringe and zippers are a giant hat tip to the Wild West notion. However, lately, cowboy couture has taken over music festivals and catwalks. In fact, Google Trends for 2022 noted a 110% increase in searches for cowboy boots year-to-date. Similarly, shopping app Lyst also noted a similar spike in global searches for the same product. #Ranchcore has also gained popularity on social media platforms such as TikTok. As models like Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski strut around in their cowboy boots, we ask the experts what brought the trend back to 2023.

“A symbol of American Western culture, ranch-inspired fashion is a maximalist trend. After two years of pandemic and people opting for minimalism, the cowboy style is back because now they want to go all out,” says stylist Isha Bhansali. Footwear designer Aprajita Toor says, “While cowboy and western styling has been trending for years, 2022 has seen a lot of play with it internationally, which is likely to continue into 2023 as well.” Dsquared2’s men’s fall 2023 collection during the recent Milan Fashion Week confirms this.

An ode to the Wild, Wild West

The unique style is inspired by clothing worn in the region comprising the 19th century Wild West. These garments were designed to help hardy ranchers survive the rugged terrain, heat, and other hazards of the region. Several movies, books, and web shows have immortalized the legacy of the Wild West by bringing the characters to life.

“Whether it’s long boots, fringed jackets or fur coats, cowboy-inspired fashion is making a comeback due to its nostalgic value. I find this fashion sexy, street-style, old-western timeless and classic,” says Ruchi Sally, general manager of a sustainable shoe brand.

Yee-haw, the right way!

It might seem like throwing on a pair of cowboy boots or a wide-brimmed hat will get you the right look, but the experts are dishing out tips on how to pull off the trend perfectly. “Pair distressed jeans with a white shirt, suedette fringe jacket, and high angle boots. Voila, you are ready to rock western street style. Try adding wide-brimmed hats to your look this season,” suggests Sally. Toor says the style is not only playful, but also versatile. “The beauty of the trend is that it’s not tied to just one demographic group. Nothing says Western more than cowboy boots, and that’s the best place to start when trying to emulate the Western aesthetic,” she says.

Bhansali, on the other hand, insists on including fringe in your wardrobe. “The best way to incorporate it is in the form of fringes as they are big this year. You can accessorize your outfit with light and delicate feather earrings. Also, if you don’t wish to opt for cowboy boots knee-high, opt for ankle boots instead,” Bhansali concludes.