I Got the Horses in the Back, and These Old Town Road-Inspired Styles in My Shopping Cart

If the ten jillion times I heard “Old Town Road” played over the long holiday weekend is any indication, Lil Nas X’s genre-defying country-rap bop has officially moseyed into the “Song of Summer 2019” winner’s circle.

While it may not break streaming records like 2017’s SOSTM “Despacito” or have had the benefit of a viral dance challenge boosting its popularity like last year’s “In My Feelings,” it’s still true that “Old Town Road” is everywhere this summer. And with the social media-launched rapper coming out to celebrate the close of Pride Month, the song has gotten renewed attention and plays.

The rapper’s quirky style (and let’s be honest, lanky, model-esque build) has our whole team feeling the country western vibes for summer 2019. Sure, can’t nobody tell you nothing, but there’s no harm in trying a trend and seeing how you can incorporate elements into your regular wardrobe repertoire, even if your life isn’t a movie about bull ridin’ and boobies.

So go just a little bit country this summer. Below are the best country western-inspired styles to help you ride ’til you can’t no more.

Ariat Rambler Boot, $220

To truly nail a country western vibe, you’re going to need a pair of legit, honest-to-goodness cowboy boots. This pair from OG boot makers Ariat fits the bill for a city slicker who wants to take a walk on the country side (a customer’s comment on the site that there’s “not enough decorative stitching” serves as a roundabout co-sign as the perfect style for an urban cowpoke). Swap them in anytime you’d wear a Chelsea boot and they’ll become an easy go-to in your wardrobe with a simple outfit like black jeans, white T-shirt, and a denim trucker jacket. (Note: There is a more ornate version in black, in case you’re after that “hat is matte black, boots in black to match” aesthetic.)

Gap Denim Western Shirt in Slim Fit, $52

Not all of your country western apparel needs to be blue denim. You can wear Gap’s black snap-button style just like your go-to chambray shirt. Think: literally everything from chinos to dressy sweats. And yes, it would even work with a pair of jeans...so long as they’re not black. Though, on second thought, that would be a very Lil Nas X move, going full Johnny Cash with the black on black. Honestly, you might want to try that first.

Mikia Arizona Tube Beads Bracelet, $64

Like big barrel hats and shit-kicker boots, turquoise is practically synonymous with country western style, but consider introducing the semiprecious stone to your summer wardrobe in a way that’s more cool than culturally appropriating. This bracelet from Mikia is on sale right now on East Dane and will add just a hint of color at your wrist to any outfit.

American Eagle Light Wash Denim Jacket, $67

I mean, if you don’t have a denim jacket by now, then I don’t even know what we’re doing here. Personally, I like a lighter wash, which feels like the perfect prefab way to achieve that broken-in vibe without having to actually break it in yourself. Slip yours on over a hoodie and athleisure shorts when the sun goes down for a light layer lewk for those cool summer nights.

Stetson Buffalo Nickel Hat, $149

It’s no cowboy hat from Gucci, but this Stetson style is still a true classic—and it’s more John Mayer than George Strait. Perfect for channeling some high-key western vibes this summer and providing an alternative to your trusty baseball cap, try pairing the hat with black jeans, suede Chelsea boots and a perfectly-fitted white T-shirt.

MAHI Leather Classic Cowhide Backpack, $185

When I think cowhide, I think Cowboy Curtis (a.k.a. LAURENCE FREAKING FISHBURNE) from Pee Wee’s Playhouse. You don’t have to go full human cartoon to embrace the country western trend, though. Instead, opt for a stylish and well-crafted backpack in a black and white print for just a little “Yeehaw” in your life. To make the overall effect play more cool than cowboy, keep the rest of your outfit simple, and no hanging a lasso from the loops.

Wrangler Straight-Fit Jeans in Black, $60

Look, you heard the man. This summer, it’s time to put some Wrangler on your booty. This slim pair is available at Macy’s and rings up at only $60. What are you waiting for?