Fashion Trend We Love: Cowboy Chic

From Burberry’s cropped shearling jacket to Hermes bandanas, high-end brands are taking a shine to the Wild West this season. One of the easiest ways for local gals to get the on-trend look is by investing in a pair of cowboy boots. It may sound a bit cliché when you live in Colorado, but the footwear is classic and versatile—I’ve spotted everything from a fringed stiletto version to a low-heel roper style (one that stops just above the ankle)—and can be worn all year long.

In the summer, Western boots look great paired with romantic boho dresses and even wedding gowns, but for fall think style contrast: Go the unexpected route and wear them with a sport-inspired outerwear piece—à la Alexander Wang—or an evening ensemble (check out Tom Ford’s beaded football jersey dress with stiletto cowboy boots) in place of a classic pump or beaded sandal. Steer clear from wearing head-to-toe “Western” garb; the goal is to avoid looking as though you’re headed to a rodeo.

If you’d rather go the more traditional jeans-with-boots route, add a little glitz with some jewelry, like MKaltenbach’s Heel Spur (pictured, above; $75, available online or at Steve Madden at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center). Designed by Megan Kaltenbach—our 2014 Top Of The Town reader’s choice winner for local jewelry designer—this one-size-fits-all boot necklace wraps around the ankle. Its three antique brass chains are embellished with black African trade beads and brass spikes, making it neutral enough to suit every leather color out there.

To see my top picks for cowboy boots, click through the slideshow above.?

Follow fashion editor Georgia Benjou on Twitter at @gabenjou, Pinterest at /gabenjou, and Instagram at /gabenjou.

—Additional reporting by Brian Guiducci