Western boots are strutting back into the limelight, thanks to none other than the incomparable Beyoncé. The recent surge in sales of this iconic country fashion staple by over 20% can be attributed to the release of Beyoncé’s latest musical masterpiece, “Cowboy Carter” album. This resurgence isn’t just good news for boot manufacturers; it’s a signal of the broader revival of Wild West-inspired fashion trends.
Beyoncé’s venture into the country genre with “Cowboy Carter,” released just last month, sparked a frenzy in the fashion world. Even before the album’s full debut, singles like “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “16 Carriages” caused a noticeable spike in the sales of Western-style boots, according to consumer behavior firm Circana.
The influence of the 32-time Grammy winner doesn’t stop there. Beyoncé’s album joins a growing cultural movement embracing stagecoach-inspired styles. Luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton showcased an American Western line at Paris Fashion Week, featuring everything from cowboy hats to bolo ties. The trend has also gained momentum through events like the ongoing Eras Tour, where attendees channel the pre-pop era of stars like Taylor Swift.
Retailers and industry insiders are taking note. Analysts like Sam Poser of Williams Trading foresee a significant uptick in same-store sales, especially for stores like Boot Barn. Poser’s optimism is reflected in his upgraded rating for Boot Barn and increased price target, citing Beyoncé’s album release and the upcoming busy seasons for rodeos and music festivals as contributing factors.
Poser’s sentiments are echoed by the market’s response, with Boot Barn shares surging over 4% since April despite broader market fluctuations. This upward trend is part of a larger rally in 2024, with shares up by approximately 30% since the year began.
However, the Western fashion craze isn’t limited to cowboy boots alone. Levi Strauss CEO Michelle Gass highlighted the resurgence of denim, particularly with songs like “Levii’s Jeans” featured on Beyoncé’s album. Gass emphasized Levi’s commitment to staying culturally relevant, noting the significant impact of Beyoncé’s endorsement on their brand.
Yet, even as Western fashion enjoys a resurgence, not all players in the denim market are riding the wave smoothly. Levi Strauss and Kontoor Brands, known for Wrangler’s “cowboy cut” jeans, have faced recent market declines despite the overall trend.
In essence, Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” album isn’t just about music; it’s a cultural phenomenon reshaping the fashion landscape. With Queen Bey leading the charge, it’s clear that Western wear is back in vogue, and this time, it’s here to stay.