Tatler explores the Western aesthetic as the second wave of ‘cowboy core’ strikes, as seen in films such as ‘Elvis’ and ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ and recent collections from Louis Vuitton and Bottega Veneta
The Western aesthetic is a cornerstone of American style, rooted in the garments that came out of the frontier lifestyle and Native American influence. Leather boots, denim trousers and Stetson hats were originally worn to shield pioneers and settlers of the 19th century from the harsh climates. Other items typical of the style include prairie dresses and bloomers, and accessories such as neckerchiefs, bolo ties and woven shawls, as well as silver and turquoise jewellery.
Many of these items are still popular everyday wear, thanks to their durability and timeless appeal, and some have transcended into high fashion multiple times over the years. Cowboy boots had a hot moment in 2022 and were styled with juxtaposing garments, from mini dresses to basketball shorts. But a more traditional “cowboy core” look is surging in popularity in 2024, due in no small part to the release of Beyoncé’s latest album, Cowboy Carter and Bella Hadid flourishing in her equine era and more.
Check out how celebrities, films and luxury brands are incorporating Western themes in their style, and five ways to channel it.
Stay on theme like Beyoncé
While Beyoncé is best known for her RnB and pop hits, she is from Texas—it was only a matter of time before she released a country album. Cowboy Carter delivers, both musically, of course, but also visually. This is hardly surprising—remember the futuristic stage outfits she wore during the course of her successful Renaissance tour? Fashion always plays a role in her art.
The artist wore a snakeskin coat in Japan paired with a latex bodycon dress, opera gloves and hat—all in brown—for cowboy-coded ensemble that looked familiar yet felt fresh. Similarly, Louis Vuitton’s creative director Pharrell Williams’s Western vision for his autumn-winter 2024 menswear collection saw monochrome looks in shades of the desert, and chic applications of denim, leather, turquoise and silver on the runway.
