Cowgirl Core Is Coming for Your Home
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You may not be in Texas, but cowgirl core is having a moment from coast to coast. It has seeped into fashion, music, and the cultural zeitgeist. A quick scroll on Instagram will show the masses tapping their leather-bound western boots and tipping Stetson hats to Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter. But, does the western revival have any space in our home decor? According to interior designers, the answer is yes.
"Overall approachability and warmth to our home interiors is in demand," Eugenia Triandos, principal designer of Hibou Design & Co., explains. "People strive for a more relaxed approach." While some modern trends favor angles, sleek lines, and minimalism; western-inspired decor feels more grounded—just like a weekend spent on a frills-free ranch. There are supple textures, warm neutrals, and unlike modern luxury, nothing has to be perfect! In fact, distressed details are on trend. If, at this point, you're thinking: isn't cowgirl core the same as last year's coastal cowgirl phenomenon? It's not. The major difference is while coastal cowgirl paired an influence with scalloped edges, rattan furniture, and a lighter palette; cowgirl core is all about leaning into the ruggedness of the wild, wild west through galvanized steel, rich leathers, and a more dramatic scheme. (Think less Dolly Parton and more Yellowstone.)
Best of all, you don't need to live in the country to embrace this look. Portland-based designer Max Humphrey says, "I especially like introducing Western themes in unexpected places like on the east coast, in cities, and in suburban settings, rather than a more expected rural area. If you’re western curious, it’s a little easier to keep the theme in guest rooms and home offices, or even kid’s rooms."
Admittedly, the mere thought of cowgirl core home decor might conjure up visions of an old-school western—swinging wood-paneled doors, sawdust-covered floors, taxidermy—but it doesn't have to be that way. The secret, Humphrey says, is doubling down on the details. "A little goes a long way and a lot goes a really long way," he recommends. "Pay attention to materials [such as] leather or suede upholstery, fringe accents, and gunmetal finishes." To help bring a little bit of your country to your neck of the woods, we're sharing some well-appointed, western-inspired wares worth adding to your cart.
Loisaida Ottoman
Just because cowgirl core places an emphasis on rugged, grounded details, it doesn't mean there is no place for softness. Here, trade in a nubby bouclé for wispy and oh-so-soft shearling. This faux fur option from West Elm captures the trend while remaining animal-friendly.
Cowboy Toile
Don't forget to have fun with this aesthetic. "You can still take the design seriously, but there should be a sense of humor in your approach or else it might not work!" Humphrey adds. A wild, wild westernized version of the classic toile repeat, Humphrey's collaboration with Chasing Paper has a playfulness that's fitting for a powder room.
Queen Martine Floral Mix Quilt
Looking for an easy and low-maintenance way to try the trend? Employ a colorful patchwork quilt, like this layer from Urban Outfitters.
Orleans Floor Mirror
Never underestimate the power of patina. For her collaborations with Four Hands, designer Amber Lewis offset a traditional frame with slightly distressed details. "Our goal was to create something timeless and classic with unique details and beautiful materials," Lewis says. The result? A mirror that's (almost) as compelling as its reflection.
Factory Row Industrial Farmhouse Bar Cart
At its core, the cowgirl look is all about embracing a refined yet rustic look. And what better way to do so than by mixing and matching materials. The mix of wood and steel used on this bar cart create a cheers-worthy take on the country look. (Not to mentioned the wheeled legs offer a subtle nod to the wild west.)
Teakwood & Tobacco Candle
For something that can appeal to all of the senses, light this savory scent from P.F. Candle Co. Trust us: notes of teakwood and tobacco will conjure visions of cozy nights on the ranch.
Bavel Charme Green Lounge Chair
Leather and cowgirl core go together like a dude ranch and a 10-gallon hat. However, if you're looking for a less predictable way to bring this mainstay to your home, try leather in an unexpected color. The martini olive green on this Article lounge chair pairs well with the trend, all while feeling a touch more unique than your typical tan shade.
Rose and Ivory Faux Cowhide Rug
While cowhide is an obvious way to enjoy the trend, you might feel uneasy about having animal skin flanking your floor. The solution? Ruggable's faux cowhide rug, which is both machine-washable and cruelty-free. Pro tip: Buy it in a bold and unrealistic color like this rose shade, so guests also know you didn't commit to the real deal.
Sunday Set of 6 Lowball Glasses
Speaking of cheers-worthy finds, here's your cue to pick up some cool barware. While the cowgirl trend typically gravitates toward earthy and sometimes masculine neutrals, the squiggly edges on these lowballs from Estelle Colored Glasses create that feminine touch.
Woven Water Hyacinth Linen Lamp Shade
Since cowgirls (and boys!) are often outside, try to bring a little Mother Nature into your decor. "Add in layered natural textures found in nature, like wicker, definitely leans towards the aesthetic of ranch living," Triandos says. Not only is the mix of wicker and linen western-approved, but the unconventional combo provides ample visual intrigue.
Dyess 32-Inch Star and Moon Outdoor Wood Burning Firepit
Go ahead, bring the cowgirl core trend outside with the help of this fire pit. The star and moon motif pay homage to a night spent under the desert stars.
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