By Julianna Tramposch
Our fashion bible, VOGUE, traveled down south for the 2024 Livestock Show and Rodeo, which is taking place at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. It’s no secret that the Western aesthetic, known as “Cowboy Core,” has taken the fashion world by storm. It seems to have secured its place in all domains of fashion, from streetwear to designer collections like the Louis Vuitton Men’s Fall-Winter 2024 collection.
American rapper and native Texan B Bun took a moment to talk about fashion before he took the stage at the Rodeo.
“Fashion every now and then sets its eye on the common man, the working man … just look at what Pharrell has done,” he said, referring to Pharrell’s American West Collection.
Pharell’s collection includes three Louis Vuitton Cowboy Boots that were crafted at Rochambeau Ranch in Texas. He stayed true to his roots, collaborating with Luke Cosby, CEO of Purple, to achieve a custom all-black and all-leather western outfit for the occasion.
Evidence of the cowboy takeover is further demonstrated by fashion’s connection with the music world. Beyoncé recently released her country song, “Texas Hold-Em,” and announced her country album,“Cowboy Carter.” The iconic singer is bringing an abundance of attention and a newer audience into the country craze. In addition to Beyoncé, Lana Del Ray has also announced her country album “Lasso” in the making. The music industry is going country, and so is the fashion industry. Giddy Up!
Other celebrities are also embracing the country aesthetic, which we can see through Bella Hadid. She is claiming her status as a “horse girl,” as she has been spending time competing at horse shows. Additionally, she has launched her cowboy boyfriend and professional Equestrian Rider, Adan Banuelos. Her style has recently evolved to become more rodeo-inspired with bell-bottomed blue jeans, brown western-styled belts, and, of course, cowboy boots. She has even managed to merge Cowboy Core with high fashion, posing for the cover of VOGUE Italia on a horse.
Will you get in the saddle of Cowboy Core fashion? It seems like this Western aesthetic has been present in the fashion world and is only here to stay. The Western fashion trend is proving to be a powerful and unifying force that is transcending multiple industries, including music, fashion, and pop culture. It also highlights the working man and gives spotlight to a more casual and authentic style. To incorporate country into your wardrobe, invest in country staples like a pair of cowboy boots, a cowboy hat, denim, and fringe.