It is no secret that Western-inspired styles have had the fashion scene in a chokehold over last few years (thank Bella Hadid and Beyonce's latest album for that). But this season's newest (and most controversial) pattern is a much more literal interpretation on cowboy couture. Cow print seems to be having a major moment right now—and we're breaking down exactly how to wear the trend.
While it's decidedly bolder than other animal prints like leopard or snakeskin, cow print is surprisingly simple to incorporate into your fall wardrobe. Since it's composed of neutral hues, it pairs nicely with earth tones like brown, cream, and olive green that are likely already in your seasonal rotation. Plus, using cow print as an accent to punch up simpler pieces like blue jeans, plain tees, and solid blazers lets you add an on-trend statement without feeling costume-y.
Subtle accessories like calf hair ballet flats and belts are a subtle way to try out the look if you're feeling shy. But when you're really ready to grab the bull by the horns (heh), consider a full pattern wash, thanks to cow-print jeans and surprisingly sleek midi skirts that are all but guaranteed to turn heads. Below, embrace the movement with our favorite cow print pieces, starting at just $23.
Ease In With Accessories
To dip your toe into the season's cow print trend, accessories are a great place to start. Calf hair belts will add a fun pop of texture to even the simplest jeans-and-white-tee combo—but you can also go tonal by pairing a cow-print shoulder bag with a chocolate brown leather matching set or a cream-colored sweater dress.
8 Other Reasons Single Buckle Belt
Montana West Wrangler Western Hobo Purse
Gap Cow Print Calf Hair Belt
Patricia Nash Calanna Hobo Cavallino
Lohan Bag Brown Print
Embrace Statement Pieces
While cow-print clothing might sound costume-y on paper, the actual end result can actually be pretty chic. Case in point: donning this Abercrombie mini skirt and styling it with a bomber jacket and knee-high boots will garner tons of compliments on your next evening out, while throwing on a fuzzy vest with an all-black 'fit will keep you nice and cozy on chilly fall days. And if you're really feeling bold, try rocking head-to-toe cow print—this matching trucker jacket and skirt combo from Anthropologie makes it easy.
Mid Rise Belted Denim Mini Skort
superdown Leah Cow Print Jacket
SNDYS Becks Cowhide Jean
SOLY HUX Zip Up Vest
12th Tribe Kacey Cowhide Maxi Skirt
Slip Into Printed Shoes
In my opinion, shoes are the most versatile way to incorporate a daring new print into your wardrobe—since they come in a ton of different silhouettes to suit your personal style, but won't completely overwhelm your look. The ubiquitous Adidas Sambas just so happen to come in the season's barnyard-inspired pattern, so consider styling 'em for Saturday brunch alongside denim and a simple white tee. Meanwhile, calf hair ballet flats are a subtle way to give your office 'fit some flair, since they'll pair effortlessly with wide-leg trousers or even an espresso-hued slip skirt.
adidas Originals Samba Long Tongue Sneaker
Dolce Vita Lexy Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Mule
Gap Cow Print Calf Hair Ballet Flats
Lauren Gruber is an associate commerce editor at Hearst Magazines, where she writes for publications like Good Housekeeping, Cosmopolitan, Prevention, Country Living, House Beautiful, and more. She has over four years of professional experience covering a variety of lifestyle topics from home to fashion, with an advanced background in beauty and fragrance. When she’s not researching the most worthy Prime Day deals or hands-on testing all the latest perfume launches, Lauren is probably hanging out with her cat Serafina or flexing her AMC A-List membership at the movie theater.
You can find her previous work at Entertainment Tonight, Shop TODAY, USA Today, Self Magazine, L’Officiel USA, V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media.
