11 Ways to Do the Western Trend for Spring (Without Looking Like You’re in a Cowgirl Costume)

At first glance, some fashion week looks are better left on the runway and the Spring 2018 shows offered up a slew of Western-inspired looks that seemed to fall squarely in that category. But as is the case with many trends, the runway version just needs a little tweaking to evolve into real life. So before you discount the Western trend, try shopping and styling strategically to ensure your look stays in fashion girl territory without veering into the cowgirl zone.

The Spring 2018 collections saw a number of major fashion players incorporating the Old West into their ready-to-wear. At Calvin Klein, Raf Simons doubled down on the trend, carrying forward the two-tone Western button-down shirts from his Fall 2017 debut collection. The spring iterations were satin and paired with coordinating trousers, but no less rodeo-ready. He finished off the full looks with slick cowboy boots. Donatella Versace naturally offered up a sexy take on the trend, sending out models clad in black leather cowboy-inspired looks adorned with gold studs and buckle details. It was definitely not your grandma’s Americana. While designer takes can feel a little over the top, they do provide us with a starting point from which to interpret the trends for ourselves. Rather than avoid the Western look altogether, try adding accents with one or two pieces. Wear cowboy boots with a floral dress or pair Western embroidered jeans with a simple tee and slides. Or just opt for a Western-inspired jewelry piece. The idea is to take inspiration from the runway and weave it into your look without going into costume mode. If you’re ready to take on the (somewhat) Wild West, click through the slideshow to shop the trend your way.

[ Next: How to Actually Wear Cowboy Boots in 2018 ]