The 'coastal-cowgirl' aesthetic is TikTok's latest style obsession for summer 2023—here's how to rock it

Say howdy to the 'coastal cowgirl aesthetic', as maxi denim skirts and leather boots are tipped to be summer's biggest staples, according to TikTok. 

It looks like we need to add statement belts, linen dresses, skirts, and a whole ton of mid-wash denim to our capsule wardrobes as TikTok's latest fashion obsession is all about those cowboy-esque, 'western wear' vibes, but with a beachy twist.

While you've probably all heard of the coastal grandmother trend—with all its cream knits and flowy shirts that swept the app in 2022—its outdoorsy, cowboy boot-repping niece is set to be everywhere this spring and summer. So here's exactly what the coastal cowgirl aesthetic entails and where to shop all the staples...

What is the 'coastal cowgirl aesthetic'?

While sheer dresses and silver fashion continue to dominate our socials, there's another trend emerging that looks set to shape our entire summer closet with button-ups, linen dresses and denim galore.

Yes, we're talking about the coastal cowgirl aesthetic. The look is gaining major traction over on TikTok, with the hashtag 'coastal cowgirl' alone having over 54 million views to its name—not to mention the plethora of style roundups and predictions now filling our FYPs.

@styldbyliz

♬ Texas Sun - Khruangbin & Leon Bridges

@mfgaulin

♬ Texas Sun - Khruangbin & Leon Bridges

So what is this trend, you ask? Well to put it simply, it's channeling Jessie from Toy Story in all your outfits. It's perfect for transitional spring-to-summer weather as it's all about layering, as well as wearing a whole lot of browns and tans, along with classic denim skirts, shorts and jeans, and pairing all of the above with a pair of clunky cowboy boots.

The coastal part also includes flowy neutral dresses and skirts, plus a few button-ups and oversized, light knits. Just picture yourself post-horse ride, heading for a quick dip in the ocean—while the horse riding is very much optional, that's pretty much the vibe.

@madeline.hagmann

♬ Cowboy Take Me Away (Album Version) - The Chicks

As TikToker @madeline.hagmann explains, the aesthetic encompasses everything from light linen midi dresses, to tank tops and cut-off jeans—so it's pretty darn versatile.

If you're looking for even more visuals, Kendall Jenner is also a big fan of the look and can offer some major styling cues for how to wear a cowboy hat. She even has a little cowgirl boot tattoo (Kendall Jenner's tattoos are a minimalist's dream FYI) and she loves the aesthetic so much that she dubbed herself 'an actual cowgirl' during one of her Kardashians season 2 confessionals.

And you don't need to look any further than her Insta feed to see she's partial to a bit of cowgirl-core...

How to achieve the 'coastal cow-girl' look

So how do we incorporate this mid-western vibe into our daily summer rotation? First things first, you'll need a good ol' fashioned pair of cowboy boots. 

You'll probably also want to add a denim midi skirt to your next fashion haul, which is another Y2K fashion trend (alongside pumps) that's having a huge renaissance right now. Add some mid-wash jeans, classic white tees and tanks for layering and maybe even a cowboy hat—but we'll leave that one up to you...

1. Cowboy boots

Probably the moment important aspect of the coastal cowgirl vibe is the cowgirl boots. We'd recommend opting for a beige or tan—while they might look a bit statement, they pair perfectly with everything from jeans to summer dresses. 

For spring and summer, you'll be able to wear these outdoorsy boots with shorts and mini skirts, or your favorite flowy tunics. And thanks to the growing demand, a nice pair of cowboy boots aren't hard to get a hold of and, most importantly, won't cost you the earth.

DINGO Out West Cowboy Boots

RRP: $164.95

These leather knee-high boots are available in five shades, from green to black. We'd recommend the tan pair, as these will pair well with any of your blue wash jeans.

• View at Nordstrom

ASOS DESIGN Andi Flat Western Knee Boots

RRP: $66

While these boots feature a cute embroidery pattern, they are slightly less 'out there' when compared to the full-on brown cowboy boots. They'll pair perfectly with a midi skirt or under a pair of wide-leg jeans for a more subtle look. Available in sizes 4 to 13.

• View at ASOS

Ganni Embroidered Western Boots

RRP: $725

While definitely on the pricier side, these Ganni boots are having a lil' moment of their own on TikTok—they've even featured in a few of Emma Chamberlain's outfits! We love the red shade, but they're also available in tan and black.

• View at Ganni

2. Denim midi skirts

As mentioned, denim midi skirts are on the rise and when paired with your cowboy boots and tank top, you've got one heck of a look. If they're not exactly your vibe though, you can also rock a pair of shorts or a denim mini-skirt instead.

Mango Midi Denim Skirt

RRP: $59.99

A denim midi skirt is the perfect staple to add to your capsule wardrobe as you can dress them up and down. Either pair your skirt with a cozy knit and coat for fall or with a t-shirt and some sunnies for a cute spring look. This Mango skirt is made from 100% cotton and available in sizes XS to XL.

• View at Mango

Stradivarius Long Denim Skirt 

RRP: $45.90

This skirt from Stradivarius is available in sizes 0-12 and is made from the perfect mid blue wash.

• View at Stradivarius

3. Linen dresses and skirts

Putting the coastal in coastal cowgirl, linen dresses and midi skirts are also a big staple of the aesthetic...

COLLUSION eyelet tiered maxi skirt in white

RRP: $48.90

This skirt is a staple for anyone want to embody the 'coastal cowgirl' vibe this summer. Pair with your cowboy boots, a blouse or tank top and you've got yourself a fit that Kenny herself, would be proud of!

• View at ASOS

Free People One Adella Maxi Slip

RRP: $128

This slip dress is fully lined but features a very trendy semi-sheer effect, with embroidered detailing over the bust. Available in sizes XS to XL

• View at Free People

& Other Stories Linen Midi Dress 

RRP: $136

This linen number is perfect for embodying all things coastal cowgirl. Simply pair it with your boots and a straw bag and you're ready for a day at the beach or ranch...

• View at ASOS

Yee-haw, happy shopping!