So how did we get here?
Cowboy boots then and now
First, a little history.
Abrego also cites the popularity of rodeos as a contributing factor to the proliferation of the shoe.
“Rodeo has a lot of pageantry and style,” she said.
And cowboy boots can definitely have personality.
But the boots draw from a rural Mexican trend turned global high-fashion, perNPR.
And the rarer the leather, the more expensive the boot.
For example, this pair from Texas-based bootmakerLuccheseis priced at $1,695.
We recommend researching and buying from a shoemaker whose ethical practices you feel comfortable with.
We’ve broken down your options below.
Some cowboy boots also include some kind of embroidery or stitching.
Specific styles of cowboy boots place varying emphasis on each of these features that differentiate one from another.
But for our intents and purposes, a cute heel is just as practical for a cute picture.
D-toe shoes are pointy but feature no arch, while J-toe shoes are more pointy and feature an arch.
And U or W-toe shoes are the roundest toe shape.
Because the shoes are handmade in Mexico, the price tag skews a bit high.
For a cheaper option, check out these traditional white leather cowboy boots fromSteve Madden.
We recommend tucking these boots into your favorite pair of jeans to show them off.
Over-the-knee cowboy boots
What’s sexier than an over-the-knee boot, cowboy edition?
While a pointed or square toe skews more formal, a rounded toe will feel like more everyday wear.
And these over-the-knee cowboy boots fromBoot Barnfeature a pointed toe, high front shaft, and beautiful embroidery.
These boots are for the fashion-forward risk-takers who aren’t afraid to try something different.
We are obsessed with these flaming red foldover boots fromDolls Kill, which also come inmagentaandblack.
Just remember that this cleaning guideline does not apply to suede.
This isthe easiest way to clean your suede shoes.
There are still plenty of non-leather options on the market.
