Cowboy boots are the ultimate symbol of Western Americana, conjuring images of dusty trails, windswept plains, and rugged individualism. Typically paired with jeans or dresses, cowboy boots have a timeless cool factor. But lately I’ve noticed cowboy boots popping up in a more unexpected place – with shorts!
While cowboy boots with shorts may seem like an unlikely combination at first, the pairing is actually super on-trend and chic. From frayed denim cutoffs to breezy linen shorts, cowboy boots add a touch of Western flair. The contrast between the feminine shorts and masculine boots creates an effortlessly cool look.
I love how versatile cowboy boots are and how they can instantly add a rugged edge to even the girliest of outfits. So if you’re looking to shake up your summer style, give cowboy boots and shorts a try! Here are 15 amazing ways to rock this trendy look.
1. Monochromatic Cowgirl
For this first outfit, we have a sleek, monochromatic look. A curve-hugging grey tube top is paired with black shorts for a streamlined silhouette. A black blazer provides a bit more coverage while still showing some skin.
Metallic silver cowboy boots shine against the neutral palette. And a small black chain-link crossbody bag completes the urban cowgirl vibe.
I love how the metallic cowboy boots make this monochrome outfit really pop! The contrast between the feminine shorts and edgy boots creates such an effortlessly cool look.
2. Sweet & Short
If you like to play up your feminine side, this outfit is for you. A delicate white lace-trimmed tank top has a romantic vibe. Paired with frayed denim cutoffs, the ladylike top contrasts perfectly with the rugged bottoms.
Pretty pastel pink cowboy boots complement the soft color scheme. And a dainty necklace provides the perfect delicate accessory to finish this flirty look.
The interplay between feminine and edgy is so fun here! This outfit would be perfect for a music festival or a casual summer date.
3. Boho Cowgirl
Heading to Coachella or Austin City Limits this season? Stand out from the crowd in this boho-chic festival outfit.
Start with a breezy kimono-style cardigan in colorful patterns and intricate designs. Layer it over a simple white spaghetti strap tank and high-waisted denim shorts. This creates a stylish desert-ready look made for dancing all day long.
Next, slip on a pair of knee-high brown leather cowboy boots to embody that effortless Indio style. Don’t forget your floppy sunhat and a hands-free crossbody bag to complete the laid-back festival vibe.
4. Dangerous Curves
Va va voom! This sultry look shows some skin while still maintaining a bit of mystery. A black bikini top peeks out from underneath a sheer black blouse. The blouse provides a hint of coverage over the bikini while still allowing your assets to shine.
Frayed light denim cutoffs flaunt those legs, while over-the-knee brown leather cowboy boots elongate them even further. A black leather crossbody bag carries the essentials in this sexy summer outfit.
One of my favorite looks on this list! I’m loving the interplay between the bikini top and sheer blouse. And the over-the-knee cowboy boots are so hot. Definitely an outfit for a steamy summer night out!
5. Cool & Casual
For weekend errands or a casual day date, try this relaxed outfit. An oversized graphic tee provides ultimate comfort, while light wash denim cutoffs flaunt your stems. Then embrace your inner cowgirl with tall black leather cowboy boots.
The cowboy boots pull everything together for such a cool casual look. You’ll stay comfy while making a stylish statement!
6. Urban Cowgirl
This sleek black outfit brings some urban edge to the cowgirl aesthetic. A ribbed tan tank shows off glowing skin. High-waisted black leather shorts flaunt your curves in an edgier way than denim.
A black leather belt cinches the waist. Then complete the rock n’ roll cowgirl look with knee-high black leather cowboy boots. A patterned crossbody bag carries the essentials while adding a pop of color.
7. Pretty in White
Beat the heat in this breezy white look! A crisp white blazer provides a polished touch. Flowy mid-thigh shorts keep you cool while still showing some leg. Then embrace your inner cowgirl with brown leather cowboy boots.
I love a good all-white outfit in the summer! The cowboy boots provide such a nice contrast against the angelic white pieces. This outfit manages to be both chic and down-to-earth at the same time.
8. Boho Babe
Channel flower child vibes in this bohemian chic outfit! A flowy white blouse in lightweight material is nice and breezy. Distressed denim shorts flaunt your stems. And knee-high brown suede cowboy boots add Western flair.
One of my favorite looks on this list! I’m obsessed with how the flowy blouse and distressed denim shorts contrast with the rugged cowboy boots.
The laidback boho vibe of it all is so cute for a summer music festival!
9. Plaid Shirt and Denim Shorts
Lumberjack-inspired look with a Western twist! A plaid shirt is tied at the front, giving it a cropped, skin-baring effect. Classic denim shorts keep things casual.
A leather belt matches the shirt perfectly. Knee-high cowboy boots complement the outdoorsy vibe.
I love the juxtaposition of masculine and feminine elements here – the menswear-inspired plaid shirt paired with shorts and cowboy boots. You might enjoy trying out this look if you like mixing styles!
10. Sexy in the City
Who says you can’t wear cowboy boots in the big city? This outfit brings urban edge to the cowboy boot trend. A black blazer provides a sophisticated touch, worn open over a simple black bikini top to show some skin.
Denim Bermuda shorts flaunt your legs. Over-the-knee dark brown leather cowboy boots emulate the popular over-the-knee boot trend while still retaining Western flair. And a black leather handbag carries the essentials.
11. Playful in Pink
Infect some color into your cowgirl aesthetic with this vibrant pink outfit! A graphic tee in a fun print provides a playful foundation. High-waisted vibrant pink denim shorts show off stems. And black leather cowboy boots ground the look with a bit of ruggedness.
One of my favorite looks on this list! I love how the graphic tee contrasts with the girly pink shorts. And the cowboy boots pull the whole outfit together flawlessly. So fun and flirty!
12. Cool Cutoffs
Beat the summer heat in frayed denim cutoffs! A black cropped sleeveless top keeps things simple up top so the shorts can shine.
Frayed hem denim cutoffs flaunt your legs, while knee-high white leather cowboy boots elongate them. A white leather crossbody bag carries daily essentials. And a bomber jacket completes the outfit for those times when the weather gets shaky.
13. Dark Angel
Unleash your dark side in this all-black outfit. A flowy black blouse has an ethereal quality. High-waisted black shorts flaunt your curves.
Knee-high black leather cowboy boots provide a rugged edge. And a black leather crossbody bag with gold chain straps polishes off this rock n’ roll chic look.
You might love embracing your inner goth cowgirl in this dark angel outfit! I’m obsessed with how the feminine flowy blouse contrasts with the badass cowboy boots. And I love the interplay between angelic and edgy all in black. So fun and unique!
14. Denim Darling
Beat the summer heat in the ultimate warm weather combo – denim and cowboy boots! A light blue cropped tank top keeps things breezy.
Frayed denim cutoffs flaunt your stems. And brown leather cowboy boots kick things up a notch. Top it all off with a wide-brim pink sunhat to keep the blazing sunshine at bay.
The pink sunhat provides the perfect pop of color. This outfit just screams carefree summer fun!
More Tips for Styling Cowboy Boots with Shorts
Beyond these 14 outfits, there are endless possibilities for pairing cowboy boots with shorts. Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Choose boots in neutral hues like black, brown, tan, or white. These provide versatility to pair with shorts in any color. Save bright shades like red for statement looks.
- Consider shaft height based on leg length. Knee-high boots elongate petite frames. Ankle boots show off legs on taller women. Mid-calf can be flattering for many.
- Watch heel height based on plans. Walkable block heels around 2 inches work for extended wear. Save taller heels for sitting occasions. Flatter heels provide comfort.
- Select shorts in the right length. Aim for a 6-8 inch inseam or longer to balance taller cowboy boot shafts. Dramatic hem variations can look imbalanced.
- Cuff wider-leg shorts to avoid bunching at the shaft. This creates a clean line and defined silhouette.
- Size up on shorts to accommodate boot shafts fitting under the leg openings. Leave some breathing room.
- Add tights or leggings if your shorts seem extra short with boots. Sheer black tights can add coverage while maintaining the look.
- Dress shorts up or down with your top. Pair with feminine blouses for date night or graphic tees for casual cool.
- Finish with statement accessories like oversized sunnies, straw hats, or stacked jewelry. Let these be the focus.
What’s your favorite way to wear cowboy boots with shorts?
Let us know in the comments below your tips, tricks, and favorite outfit ideas for rocking this trending style mashup!
Cowboy boots add an edgy twist to any shorts look. With so many options for tops, bottoms, boots, and accessories, the styling possibilities are endless.
We can’t wait to hear your thoughts on how to perfectly pair cowboy boots with shorts!
