Western Fashion is Back ~ We Say it Never Left!

June 5, 2025

Western fashion is a major trend right now with its bold, adventurous, and undeniably iconic designs being worn everywhere. Cowboy hats, leather and suede clothing, and statement jewelry make frequent appearances on social media, in streetwear, and even on stage! At the 2025 ACM Awards, many country music artists proudly wore fringe details, Turquoise gemstones, and large conchos on their clothes and accessories.

Model wearing a pink cowboy hat and Southwestern Jewelry

Western Fashion in History ~ The Power to Inspire

So, if it’s a trend right now, why do we say it never left? Because it really didn’t! Western fashion, particularly bold Sterling Silver and gemstone jewelry has been around for quite some time. The source of Western inspiration is from Native American culture and traditions that started many generations before the arrival of the Spanish in the 1500’s. The Navajo and Zuni peoples are historically renowned for their artistic talent and symbolic designs that champion the use of intricate details combined with colorful gemstone cabochons to bring every piece of jewelry to life. Turquoise gemstones – which are a staple in Western jewelry design and are so dearly loved by all jewelry collectors today -- are especially revered and adorned by Native Americans for their spiritual meaning and ceremonial significance.

After the arrival of the Spanish explorers, European jewelry-making techniques and styles were blended with traditional Native American artistry and craftsmanship. As time and history progressed through the 1800’s, the additional influences of Mexican vaqueros and Westward expansionists eventually led to the conceptualization of the “cowboy style”, which we commonly refer to in modern day as Southwestern style or Country fashion. The adventurous and charming fashion statement of sturdy leather boots, wide-brimmed hats, and denim jeans started as a necessity for cowboys and cowgirls who worked long days in the heat and needed functional clothing. But eventually, around the start of the 1900’s, when motion picture films were invented and the “cowboy style” type of look made it to the big theatre screens, it became more than just functional attire. It became an identity that’s embraced and honored as a connection to the heritage, history, and people of the land from which the style is inspired by.

Model laughing while sitting in a convertible classic car and holding a cowboy hat and acoustic guitar while modeling Southwestern jewelry

Modern Western Fashion Today ~ The Power to be Timeless

Western cinema received its own genre in Hollywood and has been flourishing since ~ influencing film lovers and art enthusiasts across the world! Western films feature timeless themes, fascinating characters, and stunning landscapes that won and still hold the hearts of many. Actors and actresses, both past and present, who bring the films’ stories to life also influence fashion trends and popular culture with their Western costumes accented by stunning Turquoise jewelry and statement accessories. Among many film award ceremonies, the Western Heritage Awards is a significant annual event hosted by the National Cowboy Museum to celebrate the best film creators, writers, and entertainers who contribute to the Western cultural legacy and story with their work. While Hollywood brings Western fashion and ideals to the screen, the music industry echos those influences though sound and style. Many popular artists across generations of Country, Pop, and other music genres have worn Western looks that spark trends throughout their fanbases and onto the runway. The most recent spark was inspired by Beyonce’s music and iconic outfits for her concert performances, which has some predicting that country fashion will continue to be the boldest fashion trend for 2025.

Western culture and style have proven to be timeless in a world that is ever evolving and changing. Western heritage and traditions continue to live through people, the stories they share, and the art they create or enjoy. Wear your best cowboy-inspired looks with pride and honor its history.

Ready to embrace the spirit of the West? Shop all the Sterling Silver and gemstone jewelry you need right here on American West Jewelry. Saddle up and explore some of our collectors’ favorite accessories!