In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the most popular items of Western-inspired fashion that have bled over into mainstream fashion as well. Western style is unique and distinctive, and certain of its elements have become so well-known that they've influenced major culture in significant ways.
At A Cut Above Buckles, we're here to provide clients with a wide range of Western products, from our rodeo and championship belt buckles to various Western jewelry and other accessories. What are some other Western products that have become infused into popular culture? Here are a few to consider.
While Western culture can't make any claim to inventing felt material, cowboys and Native Americans alike have long been associated with this unique fabric. Felt is created by compressing and matting fibers together, which is a process that was historically used in order to create clothing and other objects that could better withstand the harsh conditions of the Western frontier.
In recent years, felt has become a popular material for a wide range of fashion accessories, from handbags and purses to hats and even shoes. Felt is often used as a trimming or accenting material, but there are also plenty of garments and accessories that are made entirely out of felt.
A key part of Western culture and history, boots have long been associated with cowboys, lawmen, and outlaws alike. Boots are designed to protect the feet and lower legs from the elements, and they first became popular in the American West during the mid-19th century.
Boots have continued to be popular in Western culture, but they've also become a fashion staple in mainstream culture as well. Boots are now available in a wide range of styles, from cowboy boots to work boots to fashion boots, and they're worn by people of all ages and genders.
Down slightly different lines, a color that's been historically associated with the American West is turquoise. This blue-green hue has been used in Native American jewelry and art for centuries, and it's long been considered to be a sacred color.
Turquoise is still popular in Western culture, but it has also become a mainstream fashion trend in recent years. Turquoise can be found in a wide range of clothing and accessories, from jeans and shirts to jewelry and shoes.
For instance, at A Cut Above Buckles, we offer a wide range of turquoise-adorned belt buckles, pendants, earrings, and more.
No discussion of Western fashion is complete without mentioning denim. Once worn for its durability by ranchers and railroad workers, denim has long become a fabric loved across the globe. Jeans, jackets, and shirts crafted from denim symbolize both ruggedness and style.
Today, denim is a go-to material for people seeking a look that's both tough and on-trend. While classic blue jeans continue to dominate, designers also experiment with washes, embroidery, and cuts inspired by Western motifs. Fringes, flare-legs, and detailed pockets are just a few nods to cowgirl and cowboy heritage that you’ll find in modern collections.
Fringe is synonymous with Western style, instantly evoking images of rodeo riders and early Western explorers. Originally, fringe was practical—it helped rain run off garments. Today, fringe is featured on jackets, skirts, purses, and even boots. Combined with suede, it gives outfits a touch of both movement and classic Western charm.
Suede itself has surged in popularity, lending a soft texture and deep color to vests, jackets, hats, and even bags. Pairing fringe and suede can give you a standout look that pays homage to the Western roots of fashion display.
The cowboy hat sits in a class of its own. Born out of necessity for protection against the sun, rain, and wind, the hat is now a celebrated fashion accessory. While traditional felt and straw hats remain popular, modern takes on the cowboy hat are now crafted in various colors, materials, and decorative bands.
Hats aren’t just for rodeos or ranch work anymore. Fashionistas and celebrities often sport Western-inspired hats at festivals, on city streets, and in music videos. The hat’s wide brim and high crown make it instantly recognizable and add flair to almost any ensemble.
Western heritage jewelry offers more than turquoise. Silverwork, beading, and leather-crafted pieces frequently highlight symbols like horseshoes, arrows, and feathers. These motifs often represent good luck, courage, or a connection to nature.
Layered necklaces, bold rings, and chunky bracelets inspired by Western design now appear in mainstream collections, adding an earthy and adventurous spirit to modern wardrobes. Even a single accessory influenced by the West can make a simple outfit memorable.
Western themes extend far beyond materials and accessories. Patterns such as paisley, checkered, and bandana prints often decorate shirts, dresses, and scarves. Embroidery with floral or geometric motifs adds interest and Western flair to denim jackets, blouses, and even bags.
The combination of lightweight, breathable fabrics and Western-inspired patterns gives summer and festival wardrobes a playful, bohemian spin that feels both authentic and fresh.
Western themes in mainstream fashion offer lots of flexibility. Adding small touches or bold statements can transform a look. Here are a few ways to blend Western style into your wardrobe:
These simple changes can lift everyday outfits and add personality without feeling too costume-like.
Western influences hit the runway every few years, with top designers reimagining classics for modern audiences. From Paris to New York, collections have featured everything from embroidered denim to elaborate hats and boots. These high-fashion interpretations help keep Western style fresh, relevant, and always evolving.
Western style is more than a passing trend—it's a timeless source of inspiration, blending rugged heritage with ever-evolving fashion. Its materials, accessories, and colors have found a place in collections worldwide, loved for both their practicality and standout beauty.
Whether you're looking for a subtle nod to cowboy style or hoping to stand out with daring Western accessories, the influence is everywhere. Explore the latest in Western-inspired fashion at A Cut Above Buckles, and discover pieces that blend tradition, quality, and modern flair.
For further insights or to browse a stunning collection of custom accessories, connect with our expert team.
