It may seem like cowboy boots are back in style, but in reality, they never went away. Popularized by 1940s Western Movie Stars, these boots are “an investment and staple for your wardrobe,” says E! Jeni Elizabeth, News Style Expert. With their iconic silhouette, cowboy boots come in a variety of styles that can transform your wardrobe with style, personality and even practicality.

Maybe you’re looking for a classic cowboy boot style that will transcend trends and last for decades. Or maybe you want to give your wardrobe a Western touch with high-heeled cowboy boots. No matter what style you’re looking for, there’s a cowboy boot style for you.

Best of all: Aria Magnolia Western Boot

When we think of the best cowboy boots in general, we think of a pair with a classic silhouette and embroidered style that are built to last. These western boots from Ariati are just that. With their authentic shape and traditional heel, these cowboy boots look timeless with beautiful stitching that looks classic and feminine.

Best Budget: Nasty Gal PU Boxy Cowboy Boots

You don’t have to sacrifice style for budget. Case in point: these knee-high western boots. With their patented glossy finish and knee-high design, these boots are inspired by traditional cowboy boot silhouettes without the intricate detailing, making them minimalistic enough to wear with any outfit.

Best designer: HAVVA Texas Stitched Boots

This pair from London’s Hevva features sharp contrast stitching, a classic silhouette and a low Cuban heel. Although they are highly detailed, they are a great investment in your wardrobe as they are traditional enough to wear for decades, yet stylish enough to make a statement in your wardrobe. The waste-conscious Hevva collections are made in small quantities by traditional Turkish craftsmen.

Best Vegan: Roper Dawn Western Knee Boots

Just because it’s vegan leather doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice authenticity. These knee-high cowboy boots feature a leather look, a feminine and bohemian embroidered floral pattern, a pointed toe and a chunky heel for a unique western look.

Best white: Tekoa’s The Annie

White cowboy boots are naturally statement makers and these Tekoa’s boots live up to our expectations. We love the milky texture of the white leather and the tone-on-tone stitched details. In addition? They are made of very soft cowhide, so the shoe fits like a glove.

Best Black: Western Durango Harness Boot

Motorcycle boots meet cowboy boots. These mid-calf cowboy boots feature a modern take on classic seam patterns, a traditional square toe and a boot silhouette with tabs for added detail.

Best Embroidered: Kirstin Tall Boot by Myron Crosby

One of the best things about cowboy boots is the detailing, and Myron Crosby offers it all with beautiful embroidered designs. We love this pair for its unique embroidered cowboy boots (like the daffodil accents and poppy blue stitching).

Best Thigh Boots: Jo Ghost Midnight Magic Western Boots

Sleek and stylish, these over-the-knee cowboy boots offer a modern take on a traditional silhouette. A suede upper paired with metallic python leather gives these western boots a casual yet stylish look that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. In addition, the model has zippers on the side, which makes it easier to put on and take off.

Best Heel: Rachel Comedy Willow Tall Boot

We love cowboy boots with heels. These from Rachel Comedy are an excellent choice because while the 4 inch heel certainly makes a statement, the rest of the boot has a clean, simple design that takes inspiration from classic western boots without being over the top.

Good Craftsman: Brother Ellies Mermaid Boots

Veil Ellies is known for its intricate leather goods and small batches. Although expensive, these mermaid boots are handcrafted and painted by Mexican artisans and are meant to last a lifetime, so if you’re really looking to invest in a pair, these won’t disappoint.

Ideal for wide feet: Aria Heritage R Toe western boot

When shopping for wide-footed boots, size options are important. We love these Adriatic R toe boots because they come in two different foot widths – medium and wide – so you’re sure to find the perfect fit. Plus, these cowboy boots come in a variety of colors, so the fit requirements won’t limit you.

Best metal: Jeffrey Campbell Gadget western boot

These classic cowboy boots add shine with six different metallic finishes. From fuchsia pink to lime green, these boots are made for walking with lots of personality and grit. Another reason to love these original western boots? Despite their metallic appearance, they are of high quality and made of genuine leather.

Best Quad: Idyllwild Tumbleweed Performance Western Boots

Square cowboy boots give us a great bohemian vibe. These from Idyllwild have the classic cowboy heel we know and love, with intricate embroidered details and a padded insole for maximum comfort.

Best Wide Calf: Western Aria Heritage X Toe Elastic Wide Calf Shoe

One of the hardest things about knee boots of any style is pulling them over the calf, this is especially true for those with wider calves. We love these Aria cowboy boots because the shaft is wider than your average boot up to the knee, and they are even designed with hidden elastic inner panels for a more comfortable fit.

What should you look for in cowboy boots?

In shape

Cowboy boots should usually fit properly. As for finding a blazer that fits you well, consider the widest part of the boot and make sure your foot fits snugly on it when you are standing. And while cowboy boots are supposed to be comfortable, you also need to make sure you have enough room for your toes when walking.

Another important thing to consider when looking for the right size cowboy boots is the choice of sock. When trying on cowboy boots, check the fit of the pair of socks you plan to wear with them. Trying them on thinner or thicker socks can cause your fit to become distorted and cause size issues when you actually wear them.

Style

It might not seem like much, but cowboy boots are stylish, so keeping style in mind when shopping is very important. If you want a pair that will last for decades, we recommend opting for a traditional, timeless design and premium leather (past: the Aria Magnolia Western Boot (see on Amazon) is a great option). For something a little more trendy, opt for a pair with a modern twist, like the Jeffrey Campbell Gadget Western Boot (seen at Nordstrom) in metallic green.

Heel

All cowboy boots have a heel, so this is important. Most traditional cowboy boots have a shorter heel of around 2 inches, but some also have stiletto and stacked heels of 4 inches. When shopping for cowboy boots, consider where you will be wearing the boots. If you want something extra every day, a shorter traditional heel is the best option. But if you want something with a touch of style, high-heeled cowboy boots like the Rachel Comely Willow Tall Boot (seen at Nordstrom) might be a better option.