You may not think of it as such, but the cowboy style is pretty much a constant in the mainstream fashion. Sure, it’s had its ups and downs over the years, and its popularity may have waned after the boom it made with old Hollywood movies, yet thanks to modern TV shows like Westworld, it’s definitely on the radar again.

In fact, even some famous brands such as Calvin Klein and Fendi are introducing cowboy elements in their lines (be it in the form of boots, shirts, hats or accessories). Having this in mind, it’s safe to say high-end fashion mixed with western is a winning combination now that designers are reclaiming the cowboy culture.

The best thing about it is you don’t have to go full cowboy to be able to pull off the rugged country look if you don’t feel that bold, introducing some stylish pieces of country and western clothing and accessories would do! As western is part of the Aussie culture too, there are stores that can provide you with top-notch apparel from famous brands within the country, in the example of Akubra famous for their iconic Australian hat, Blazer, Industrie, Outback, and RM Williams, among others.

No matter whether you’re a man or woman in search of the ideal pieces, you can’t do without the following in your wardrobe:

Jeans

Ever since they were first invented in the 1800s they were called jeans as a reference to the specific cotton twill fabric they were made of, and they have always been a symbol for the cowboys who have worn them for practical reasons – they’re durable and protect well from the weather. Of course, with the help of Hollywood heartthrobs like Gary Cooper and John Wayne, they became a fashion staple for the style – you don’t have to be a cowboy or cowgirl to wear them.

Though they’re available in a wide range of models, if you plan on wearing them with other country clothing items, particularly boots, it’s advisable to get a specialised model that’s got a special boot-cut design with the needed room to wear the boots underneath. Additionally, properties that make a good pair of jeans are stretchiness for comfort (especially if you’d be wearing them most of the day), a perfect fit (neither tight nor loose) and the right length (no bagginess).

Shirts

Staples as much as the jeans, cowboy shirts are the epitome of the style and should find their way in your wardrobe. Typical for their features, feel free to choose collared shirts with western yoke, smile pockets, some embroidery and embellishment, border print or saddle stitching. If you decide to opt for a denim shirt to match your jeans, instead of cord or checkered, it’s advisable to look for a variation in the wash to avoid a matchy-matchy look.

Jackets

Whether you only want them out of stylish purposes or you want to get their protection from the weather elements, jackets are a must in country and western clothing. You won’t be out of options as you can pick from a vast array of models and materials, from the simpler denim and leather jackets for a cool vibe, to the embellished ponchos and capes. If you’re after getting that true western vibe though, be sure to include suede jackets with fringes or even opt for full-length oilskin.

Boots

Fit for any occasion you put them through, a cowboy can’t do without a pair of durable and eye-catching boots. As a modern man, these are some of the popular types of shoes you should own. If you don’t live in the Outback, you can maintain the casual styling by wearing this typical footwear with a jacket and a subtle accessory like a belt in the style – nothing more.

As there are different types of boots to pick from, differing in their height and decoration, you can make things easier for you while shopping by becoming acquainted with the basic styles of western boots: stockman, ropers, classic western, western work and buckaroo. Besides comfort, such shoes should offer utmost protection both inside and outside, so look for genuine leather for the durable investment that provides breathability and weatherproof properties.

Hats

Gone are the days when cowboy hats were worn strictly out of functional purposes, nowadays they’re the key pieces to pulling off the country style. As there’s a range of hats to pick from, first and foremost decide on the material and the season you need them for to be able to get the right protection from the weather. Felt hats are recommended for the colder months whereas straw for the warmer.

In addition, it’s helpful if you know the basic hat styles available at the country and western clothing stores: cattleman, brick, gus, tom mix, gambler, open crown, fedora and pinch crown. The first one is an option if you’re up for traditional style, and the second is a squared version of the first. While the gus is similar to these, it’s got a higher crown, which is even more dramatic with the tom mix.

The gambler is typical for its low and flat crown though the one with the loosest crown has to be the open crown. Lastly, the fedora is famous for its crown that’s got the shape of a teardrop similar to the pinch crown with the dimples on both sides.

Apart from the style, you ought to consider your face shape as the final decisive factor in your choice. People with thin elongated faces would certainly benefit from cowboy hats with medium height crowns, and leave the low height crowns for those with fuller and rounder faces. Those with larger oval faces should buy models with medium brims.