Can you Wear Cowboy Boots with Shorts? Saddle Up for Summer

Howdy, y’all! Ever found yourself staring at a pair of cowboy boots and wondering if can you wear cowboy boots with shorts? Well, buckle up, because today we’re diving into the wild world of Western fashion. As someone who’s embraced the cowboy boot and shorts combo, I can assure you – it’s not just a look, it’s a vibe. Join me as we explore the style do’s and don’ts, and maybe, just maybe, I’ll share a tale or two about strutting my stuff in boots and shorts. Saddle up for some fashion fun.

Do’s and Don’ts When Styling Cowboy Boots With Shorts

The first step to successfully styling cowboy boots with shorts is understanding the basic dos and don’ts. Here are some key guidelines:

Do’s

• Do opt for shorts that hit mid-thigh or slightly above the knee. Shorts that are too long or too short can look disproportionate to taller cowboy boots.
• Do choose shorts that are well-fitted through the hips and thighs. Avoid shorts that are too tight or too loose, which can look sloppy.
• Do pick neutral-colored cowboy boots like brown, black, tan, or white to pair with brightly colored or patterned shorts.
• Do wear cowboy boots with casual shorts made of denim, linen, cotton, or lightweight chino.

Don’ts

• Don’t pair ornately decorated cowboy boots with busy patterned shorts – this can look too loud and messy.
• Don’t wear very short cutoffs or booty shorts with cowboy boots, as this looks skimpy.
• Don’t opt for baggy cargo shorts, which can overwhelm the sleek cowboy boots.
• Don’t wear cowboy boots with formal shorts like dressy Bermuda shorts – this combination is too incongruent.

Now that you know the fundamental dos and don’ts, let’s look at how to choose the optimal cowboy boots to pair with shorts.

Key Factors For Choosing Cowboy Boots for Shorts

Not all cowboy boots work well with shorts. Here are three factors to keep in mind when selecting your cowboy boots:

Boot Height

Cowboy boots come in different shaft heights, from ankle length to knee-high. For shorts, mid-calf cowboy boots tend to be the most flattering. They show off just a peek of skin between the top of the boot and the bottom of the shorts.

Ankle cowboy boots can also work well with shorts, especially short shorts. They help elongate the leg. Avoid tall, knee-high cowboy boots with shorts, which can shorten the look of the legs.

Boot Color

Stick to neutral cowboy boot colors like brown, black, tan, or white when wearing them with shorts. Neutral boots act as a blank canvas and make it easy to mix and match different colors of shorts. Brightly colored cowboy boots can clash with printed shorts.

However, if you’re wearing solid-colored denim shorts, you can get away with more vibrant cowboy boots. Just be cautious of color combinations that are too loud together.

Boot Design

Choose cowboy boots with relatively minimal embellishments and avoid those with ornate stitching, rhinestones, fringe, etc. The busier the boot, the harder it will be to pair with patterned shorts. Simple leather cowboy boots in solid colors give you maximum versatility.

Table: Most Popular Cowboy Boot Styles for Women

Boot Style	Shaft Height	Heel Height	Popular Colors
Western Cowboy Boot	Mid-Calf	2 inches	Brown, Tan, Black
Cowboy Ankle Boot	Ankle	1.5 inches	Black, Brown, Red
Cowboy Hiking Boot	6-8 inches	1 inch	Brown, Tan, Grey
Cowboy Combat Boot	8-10 inches	1.5 inches	Black, Brown
Cowboy Wedge Boot	Varies	2-3 inch wedge	Black, Brown, Grey

Now let’s get into how to put together winning cowboy boots and shorts outfits.

Expert Tips for Creating Fashionable Boot and Shorts Outfits

Pairing cowboy boots with shorts isn’t difficult—it just requires some styling know-how. Use these expert fashion tips to create fun, modern outfits:

1. Balance Outfit Proportions

Aim for balance when styling your cowboy boots and shorts. If you’re wearing longer shorts, choose ankle cowboy boots to maintain proportionality. With short shorts, mid-calf boots help elongate the leg.

Also, be mindful of tucking in tops or half-tucking them. Untucked, oversized tops can overwhelm a petite frame when paired with cowboy boots.

2. Mix Feminine and Masculine

Cowboy boots have a masculine edge. Soften the look by pairing them with feminine-style shorts like high-waisted denim cutoffs or floral printed shorts. Flowy camis or cropped tops work well too.

3. Contrast Textures

Leather cowboy boots and denim shorts are a match made in heaven. The contrast between the smooth leather and distressed denim makes for an eye-catching combo.

This same effect can be achieved by pairing suede fringe boots with cotton shorts or Patent leather boots with linen shorts. Mixing textures adds visual interest.

4. Infuse Your Personal Style

Cowboy boots and shorts are a versatile combination. Tailor it to your own personal style by choosing shorts and tops that reflect your aesthetic.

A girly-look lover? Try a floral sundress and cowboy boots. Going for an edgy vibe? Leather moto jacket, graphic tank, denim shorts, and cowboy boots. Make it you!

5. Mind the Weather

During warm sunny days, opt for breathable shorts in cotton, linen, or lightweight denim. Cooler temps call for regular denim shorts or trousers tucked into the boots.

Straw cowboy hats, breezy button-downs, and denim jackets transition the look from summer to fall.

6. Finish With Accessories

No outfit is complete without the right accessories. Some ideas for accessorizing your cowboy boots and shorts look:

• Statement belt
• Bandana neck scarf
• Hip pack or crossbody bag
• Bolo tie
• Hoop earrings or pendant necklace
• Sunglasses
• Ankle socks

Accessories infuse extra personality into your outfit. Have fun mixing and matching!

Which Shorts Pair Best With Cowboy Boots?

Nearly any style of shorts can work well with cowboy boots. However, there are a few varieties that are particularly suited for the cowboy boot look:

• Denim cutoffs – Distressed denim cutoffs are a classic pairing. Go for a mid to high-rise fit.
• High-waisted shorts – The extra height balances out taller cowboy boots for a leg-lengthening effect.
• Chino shorts – A casual pair of shorts in lightweight cotton or linen that works for warm weather.
• Athletic shorts – Try track shorts or cycling shorts made of sweat-wicking performance fabric.
• Bermuda shorts – Longer length hits mid-calf, similar to capris. Creates a nice break between the boot and hem.
• Dress shorts – More tailored shorts work for date night. Opt for dark colors like black, navy, or olive.

Now that you know what shorts pair best, let’s discuss how to wear cowboy boots and shorts for different occasions.

Table: Top-Selling Cowboy Boots Brands in 2022

Brand	Key Features	Price Range
Ariat	Durability, comfort	$120-$300
Lucchese	Craftsmanship, style	$350-$3000+
Justin Boots	Traditional cowboy styles	$99-$200
Tony Lama	Elaborate detailing	$150-$600
Dan Post	Affordability, variety	$80-$200
Old Gringo	Intricate embellishments	$250-$500
Roper	Value, functionality	$60-$150

How To Wear Cowboy Boots With Shorts: Outfit Ideas for Different Occasions

One of the best aspects of the cowboy boot and shorts combo is it transitions seamlessly from day to night. Dress it up or down to suit the occasion.

Casual Daytime Activities

For running errands, meeting friends for lunch, or enjoying the outdoors, try these ideas:

• T-shirt or tank top with denim cutoffs and cowboy boots
• Breathable linen shorts with a v-neck tee and straw cowboy hat for a picnic
• Cotton shorts with cropped sweater and ankle cowboy boots for apple picking

Night Out Outfits

For drinks, dinner, concerts, and other nighttime fun:

• Date night outfit: dressy high-waisted shorts with a bodysuit and block-heel cowboy boots
• Going dancing: mini skirt over denim shorts with a bustier top and cowboy boots
• Outdoor music festival: band tee with bike shorts and cowboy boots

Transitional Weather Looks

When temps start to dip, layer up your cowboy boots and shorts outfit:

• Denim shorts with oversized flannel shirt and boot socks for cozy fireside hangs
• Leather moto jacket and graphic tee with denim cutoffs and cowboy boots for cooler nights
• Oversized knit cardigan paired with a tank top, linen shorts, and cowboy boots for brisk days

As you can see, the styling possibilities are endless for pairing cowboy boots with shorts! Use these tips to help inspire your own fashion-forward outfits.

Conclusion

As this guide has shown, with the proper styling techniques, you can absolutely wear cowboy boots with shorts to create fashionable warm-weather outfits. By following our tips on proportion, fit, textures, accessories, and more, you can pair these two items in a way that suits your personal tastes and flatters your figure. So next time you’re getting dressed and wondering “Can you wear cowboy boots with shorts”, remember these pointers. With the right cowboy boots, shorts, and styling approach, you can comfortably rock this combo for any occasion. Just have fun with it and let your inner cowgirl or cowboy shine!

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