What Color Cowboy Boots Should I Get: Quick Guide


Howdy, boot buddies! Ever stood in the cowboy boot aisle, surrounded by a rainbow of choices, and thought what color cowboy boots should I get? I’ve been there, and let me tell ya, choosing the right hue can feel like picking wildflowers in a meadow of options. Picture this: my first venture into cowboy boot shopping left me torn between classic browns and adventurous blues. In this post, we’ll wrangle with the colors of the Western rainbow, exploring how to pick the perfect shade that not only suits your style but also adds that extra kick to your boot-scootin adventures!

Matching Boots to Your Personal Style

Your personal style should be the primary driver when selecting a cowboy boot color. Are you a rugged outdoor adventurer or a glamorous fashionista? Match the color to the image you want to project.

For a bold, eye-catching look, choose brightly colored boots in red, turquoise, pink, purple, or other vibrant shades. These electrifying hues complement flamboyant styles. Distressed leather with contrast stitching or ornate insets adds to the dramatic effect.

Prefer a more low-key, earthy vibe? Soft, neutral tones like brown, tan, gray, or olive green are ideal. These everyday colors pair well with casual looks and outdoor activities. Consider different shades of brown like chocolate, chestnut, or caramel to match your style.

Choosing Colors to Complement Skin Tone

You want your cowboy boots to enhance your natural skin tone, not compete with it. Certain colors will make you glow while others can wash you out.

Those with fair or pinkish complexions look best in warm earth tones like tan, copper, brown, red, peach, or yellow. These rich shades contrast nicely and add warmth. Avoid pastels or black.

People with olive or medium skin tones can wear a wider range of colors like brown, gray, navy, maroon, forest green, and even bright red. Make sure the intensity complements your skin.

Darker complexions pair well with deep, saturated colors that mirror their richness. Consider oxblood, burgundy, magenta, emerald, navy, brown, tan, purple and burnt orange. Lighter and brighter colors can look washed out.

Considering Purpose and Setting

Considering Purpose and Setting

The occasion you’ll be wearing your cowboy boots should factor into your color selection. Certain settings and purposes call for different hues.

For a casual day outdoors, lighter earth tones like tan, light brown, gray, cream, or white pair well with jeans and t-shirts. They resist dirt and are easy to clean.

In a professional office setting, black, dark brown, navy, or oxblood boots project polished refinement. They match business casual attire. Distressed leather boots are too casual here.

At a party or nightclub, brightly colored cowboy boots make a fun fashion statement. Red, blue, purple, and metallic colors stand out and attract attention.

For weddings and formal events, classic black boots match a suit or dress. You can also select a darker hue that coordinates with your outfit. Avoid casual colors.

Most Popular and Classic Boot Colors

These timeless cowboy boot colors continue to be staples year after year:

  • Black – Sophisticated and formal yet matches anything. A versatile neutral.
  • Brown – Classic hue ideal for casual settings and everyday wear. Available in light, dark, tan, and chestnut.
  • White – Crisp, eye-catching color great for summer and warm climates. Requires more care.
  • Tan – Universal shade perfect for outdoor adventures. Pairs with nearly any casual outfit.
  • Red – Bold and fiery tone. Makes a brazen fashion statement. Multiple shades like oxblood.
  • Blue – Unexpected pop of color. Navy is versatile, while turquoise/teal adds vibrance.
  • Green – Earthy tones like olive or forest green work for casual looks. Avoid neon hues.
  • Pink – Feminine shade ideal for women. Options range from pastel to neon pink.
  • Metallic – Adds modern shine and glam. Silver and gold are popular nightlife choices.

Table: Most Popular Cowboy Boot Colors by Gender

ColorPercent of WomenPercent of Men
Brown43%58%
Black39%32%
Tan12%5%
Red3%1%
Blue2%3%
White1%1%

Factors That Influence Color Selection

Your selection can also be influenced by these considerations:

  • Outfit Pairings – Pick a color that flatters what you typically wear. Black boots match any color of clothing. Brown complements blue denim.
  • Weather/Season – Lighter boots for spring/summer. Darker and richer tones for fall/winter. Avoid white in rain/mud.
  • Age – Youth and teenagers often select bright, vibrant shades. Adults tend to choose versatile neutrals.
  • Gender – Women lean toward softer or brighter colors. Men tend to stick with blacks, browns, and tans.
  • Regional Styles – Southwestern wear favors turquoise. Rodeo fans like patriotic colors and intricate details.
  • Cost – Natural exotic leathers drive up prices. Standard colors in ordinary hides are the most affordable.

Table: Average Cowboy Boot Costs by Color

ColorAverage Price Range
Black$100 – $300
Brown$100 – $250
Tan$80 – $200
Red$120 – $400
Blue$130 – $350
White$120 – $300
Metallic$150 – $500

Comparing Black vs. Brown Boots

Black and brown remain the two hottest-selling cowboy boot colors, so how do you choose between them?

Black boots have an edgy, rebellious vibe. They project power and refinement. Black matches any outfit color and fits both casual and formal settings. Scuffs are less noticeable on black. But constant polishing is required to maintain the classic jet-black shine.

Brown boots exude rugged masculinity and a laidback outdoorsy look. The range of brown shades provides versatility. Brown hides scuffs and doesn’t require vigorous polishing. But brown boots show dust and dirt faster. Finding the right shade of brown to complement your wardrobe takes consideration.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Color

  • Shop for boots in person whenever possible. Colors display differently on monitors. Subtle variations in shades are hard to distinguish online.
  • Try on multiple styles and brands to compare color variations. Manufacturing processes impact color consistency.
  • Consider buying two pairs in versatile neutral colors like black and brown. Alternate them to help boots last longer.
  • Contrasting stitching, backstraps, and embellishments can accentuate or downplay a color. Consider these details when choosing.
  • Condition regularly and store properly to minimize fading. Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
  • Neutral shades are the easiest to match at first. Slowly expand into brighter colors as you gain experience pairing.

Ensuring Proper Fit

Ensuring Proper Fit

An ideal color means nothing if the fit is wrong. When trying on boots:

  • Shop late in the day when your feet are largest. Make sure ample room remains for socks.
  • The widest part of your foot should line up with the widest part of the boot.
  • Heels should not slip up and down excessively when walking.
  • Toes should have wiggle room and not jam against the front.
  • Walk around the store to gauge comfort. Breaking-in will still be required.

Conclusion

Finding the ideal cowboy boots is a mix of practical considerations and personal preferences. Take into account your typical outfit colors, skin tone, lifestyle, and the look you want to achieve. Consider versatility for cost-effective options you can wear year-round. And don’t forget to have fun with your selection! Cowboy boots are a way to showcase your individuality. If you keep these tips in mind as you shop, you’ll find the cowboy boot color that perfectly fits your style. Trust your instincts to choose a shade that makes you smile each time you put on your cowboy boots. With all of these factors covered, you now have the knowledge you need to determine what color cowboy boots you should get for your wardrobe.

FAQ’s

Choose warm earth tones if you have fair skin, versatile shades like brown and gray for olive skin, and rich, deep colors for darker complexions.

Black cowboy boots are the most sophisticated and formal option.

Black boots are edgy and match anything while brown provides a laidback, rugged look in a range of versatile shades.

Consider your style, skin tone, intended use, outfit pairings, and try on different brands and colors.

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