How To Style The Western-Core Trend

In 2024, cowboys are cool again.

Celebrities like Bella Hadid are embracing rodeos, western clothing and cowboy boyfriends as artists like Beyoncé make the transition to country music.

When it comes to fashion, brands are also exploring western inspirations in their new collections.

One brand to do justice to the trend is Levi’s, who explore western influence in their 24 Autumn/Winter collection.

“The roots of our brand are deeply embedded in the Old West,” Levi’s Global VP of Women’s Design, Jill Guenza tells marie claire Australia.

“We have a style in the men’s H1’24 collection called the 517 Bootcut Jean with a rich history dating back to the 1960s. This cut was specifically designed to be ‘full from the knee for the boot,’ a significant style deviation from the norm (and a practical consideration for many including cowboys who needed a wider bell-shaped fit to fall over their boots).

“You’ll also see subtle Western-design influences in our new Ribcage Bell jeans, which offer a nod to the original Levi’s jeans cut for cowboy boots while feeling ultra modern in fit and finish.”

What Defines Western Clothing?

According to Jill, “western denim has its roots in clothing built for utility on the frontier.”

“Flourishes and flair have been added over time, incorporating influences from a variety of cultures, the rodeo, and Western films and music,” Jill explains.

“We’ve dubbed the references in our collection “quiet western”, meaning modern and sophisticated in execution but with a definite nod to the original utilitarian roots.”

However, there’s a distinction between a full-blown traditional western get-up and the way celebrities are wearing the trend today.

 “Classic western dress included clean raw denim head to toe for dressed up moments and jeans perfectly worn and dusted from work on the range. 

“Western denim hallmarks can be seen in subtle details like stitch treatments, flared leg shapes in jeans, deconstruction, patching and contrasting denim fabrics. The women’s Iconic Western shirt has been a long-term staple in our range, slightly fitted with just the right amount of ease, and the new Teodora Shirt offers a relaxed take on the classic style.

“Our denim collection includes both ends of the spectrum, from clean rinses in truckers and jeans to tinted and faded finishes that evoke life on the frontier. As a brand with a history deeply tied to Western wear, we love seeing this trend continuing to evolve and become more inclusive.”

How Can I Wear The Western Trend This Season?

According to Jill, denim is one of the best ways to embrace the trend.

“Denim is having a huge moment, but not just in jeans. Denim on denim continues to gain momentum with proportions and styles evolving way beyond just the classic trucker jacket and 501s.  Traditional silhouettes like trenches, pencil skirts, and trousers are modernized in denim while fashion pieces like blouses and flowy dresses get an unexpected refresh in lightweight denim and tencel blends. 

When it comes to pieces from Levi’s own collection, Jill suggests starting with a pair of classic flares.

“The Ribcage Straight is one of our most iconic styles, and we’ve taken our highest rise yet which has become a waist-defining, leg-lengthening obsession, to develop the new season Ribcage Bells. This fit includes an ultra-flattering, vintage-inspired bell leg silhouette.”

“It’s a mix of ’70s-inspired flare and our Western heritage, and we think it’s going to be one of our most iconic styles yet.”

Jill also recommends people give chambray another chance.

“Chambray is an incredibly versatile fabric – soft and lightweight with the same beautiful look of indigo dye you see in denim.  Historically, chambray has been used in workwear shirts, thanks to its durability.  We love using chambray in our feminine styles, combining it with ruffles or eyelets for that compelling contrast of pretty and tough elements.”

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