Get ready to say yeehaw: Western fashion has seemingly found its place—but this time it comes with a twist. Dubbed as “coastal cowgirl,” across social media platforms, this trend embodies a combination of two unlikely styles: the rugged and daring elements of the wild west and the ethereal, airy essence of coastal fashion.  With 116 million views using the hashtag #coastalcowgirl on TikTok, the aesthetic is being sported by prominent celebrities such as Sydney Sweeney, Dua Lipa and Kendall Jenner.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by DUA LIPA (@dualipa)

On the runway in Ralph Lauren’s Spring/Summer 2023 show, the designer featured models wearing loose skirts and dresses, accompanied by wide-brimmed hats and cowboy boots, masterfully capturing the essence of both Nashville and Los Angeles in one seamless crossover. Popular brands like Free People and Revolve have debuted edits featuring all the essentials that shoppers can browse through to become a coastal cowgirl.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ralph Lauren (@ralphlauren)

To capture the aesthetic, styling beach-inspired elements with traditional cowboy boots and hats is an ideal starting point. While the Western aspect is straightforward, the coastal side allows for creative exploration. The key to emulating a tropical flair lies in selecting the right colours and fabrics. Stick to a lighter, earthy palette and pastel shades, while introducing bolder tones through Western accessories. Opt for breathable materials such as gossamer, gauze, linen, lightweight knits, woven fabrics, crochet and macramé. Since unrestricted silhouettes form the core of the coastal cowgirl aesthetic, seek out flowing full-length or mini dresses and skirts, where you can experiment with ruffles, tiers, or lace accents. Loose button-up shirts and even a denim-on-denim look are also popular choices. For one last touch, adding fringe details and layering jewellery can provide excellent finishing touches to complete your ensemble.

While we haven’t always been embracing this trend within the realm of mainstream fashion, music festivals like Coachella have long exhibited what we currently recognize as the coastal cowgirl aesthetic. This year, it appears that the trend’s inspiration was heavily infused into popular TV shows like Daisy Jones & The Six. With their characters effortlessly adorning flowing silhouettes and cowboy-inspired accents, they have not only rejuvenated traditional Western fashion but also encouraged viewers to re-imagine it through a summer lens.

With its chic effortlessness and versatility, the trend is already evolving into something more significant—a feeling, a way of living. Spotify curated a playlist titled “coastal cowgirl,” featuring artists like Fleetwood Mac, Miley Cyrus and Lana Del Rey. Architectural Digest recently published an article guiding readers on how to emulate the coastal cowgirl aesthetic in their homes.

Browse through our favourite pieces which guarantee to make you look like the cutest cowgirl in the wild, wild west (coast).