Giddy Up: ‘Coastal Cowgirl’ Is the Latest Viral Aesthetic That’s All About Staying Breezy and Sun-Safe

Hang on to your hats—there’s a new internet aesthetic in town, and it’s comin’ for your “coastal grandma” linen pants, chunky cardigans, and glasses of pinot grigio. Say howdy to “coastal cowgirl,” the latest look to take over TikTok (one that’s racked up nearly 80 million views and counting, at that).

If you’re thinking, “What in tarnation…,” hear us out: It’s the breeziest, most sun-safe aesthetic yet. If coastal grandma was all about staying warm and cozy when the sun goes down, coastal cowgirl is all about staying cool when the sun is up. Because if there’s ever a vocation that knows how to stay comfortable in the scorching heat and safe from the sun’s rays, it’s cowgirling.

As for the aesthetic, the “coastal” part channels the light, windswept look of summery beachwear: Lots and lots of linen, flow-y cotton, and the occasional straw hat, all in cool, watery hues and sandy creams. The “cowgirl” ups the ante with a wild, rugged edge, trading Nana’s linen trousers for denim maxi skirts, cardigans for pearl snaps, and sandals for western boots. It’s like if Beth Dutton from Yellowstone had a beach house, or if Warden Walker from Holes took a tropical vacation from digging all those dang holes. (Both of them could probably use a tropical vacation, TBH.)

So pull on your boots and saddle up, it’s coastal cowgirl summer, baby. Scroll to add a lil’ bit of country to your warm-weather outfits these next few months—horse optional.

Channel your inner coastal cowgirl with these breezy, summer-ready styles

Free People, Sweet Times Linen Top — $78.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Say “howdy” to the Sweet Times Linen Top, a romantic, breezy, and versatile blouse you’ll want to add to your cart ASAP. It’s made from the lightest linen and features ruffles galore, especially on the shoulders. (They’re almost cape-like—for keeping the sun off neck and back in the scorching heat.) Its slightly cropped bodice goes flawlessly with pants, skirts, and shorts alike. Like we said—you’ll want to add it to your cart ASAP.

Colors: 2

Reformation, Tazz Maxi Denim Skirt — $188.00

Available sizes:

Like it or not, the denim maxi skirt is back, just in time for coastal cowgirl summer. This one from Reformation has “beachy” written all over it. Featuring an organic cotton-Tencel blend, this sustainable skirt has a bit of stretch to it (ideal for hot, summer nights when you don’t want to be stuck in something stiff and restrictive). The front slit allows for maximum airflow, too, while touches like the unfinished hem and reworked panels give it a rugged feel. Pair it with a breezy blouse, camisole, even a bikini top—really anything you can lasso up.

Washes: 2

Tecovas, The Josie — $248.00

Available sizes: 5-12, in half sizes

This wouldn’t be a coastal cowgirl round-up without a pair of ace-high cowboy boots, now would it? The Josies from Tecovas tick off all the boxes in terms of quality, style, and comfort. At 11-inches high, they’re the perfect height to be worn with flow-y dresses, denim shorts, and more. They’re also crafted from a water-resistant suede, so if you find yourself in the rain, or more likely, at the beach, you’ll be good to go.

Bandits, "Good Luck" Bandana — $30.00

Like boots, bandanas instantly add a little western flair to just about any outfit. For the trendiest hankies, we love Bandits, which uses 100-percent fair-trade cotton and features designs commissioned by real artists. Even better, for every bandana sold, 10 percent of proceeds go back to different charities in a variety of different sectors. We’ll tip our hat to that.

Madewell, Eyelet Linen-Blend Crop Tank — $78.00

Available sizes: 2-16

When temps soar, you’ll be glad you have this barely-there eyelet linen top on hand. The pretty eyelet pattern looks like something straight out of a beach house, while the corset-inspired silhouette and slightly ruffled hems give it a ranchwear edge. And it goes with anything, making it a staple no cowgirl should go without.

Wrangler, Heritage Nautical Jacket - Sailing Seven Seas — $148.00

Available sizes: XS-XXL (select sizes sold out)

If you look closely at this nautical coat, you’ll find little cowgirl mermaids riding seahorses interspersed amongst the illustrations of jellyfish, coral, and other sea critters. It’s pretty much the entire coastal-cowgirl trend in a jacket, and it’s perfect for summer. Wear it over tanks and T-shirts on chilly nights, or pair it with the matching Wanderer Jeans ($138) for a statement look that’s sure to round up plenty of compliments.

Jasgood, Ladies Vintage Western Belt — $16.00

Don’t underestimate the power of a good western belt. Whether it’s the finishing touch on your head-to-toe lewk, or a subtle nod to your favorite coastal cowgirl, this vintage-inspired belt can do it all. The best part? It’s under $20.

Colors: 9

Summersalt, Coastal Poplin Ruffle-Neck Midi Dress — $115.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

For a more subtle look, nab this airy dress from Summersalt. On one hand, it’s giving Little House on the Prairie (in a good way, of course), with its ruffle neckline and pretty floral print. On the other, it’s giving Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give with its flattering midi length and beachy poplin. Whatever aesthetic you’re getting, it’s totally comfortable, thanks to the lightweight, eco-friendly cotton fabric. And it has pockets—what’s not to love?

Colors: 2

Levi's, 501 High Rise Shorts — $70.00

Available sizes: 23-33

Whether you want to channel your inner beach cowgirl or not, you can’t go wrong with a classic pair of Levi’s. Especially the 501s , which have been updated with a hip-hugging high waist that looks effortless and vintage-y no matter how you wear ’em. They come in 13 different washes, though, so good luck just buying one pair.

Washes: 13

Alex Crane, Sun Tee — $65.00

Available sizes: XS-L

Similarly, Alex Crane’s Sun Tees are so good, you’ll want to buy one in every color. That’s because they’re made entirely from sustainably grown French linen that gets softer and more relaxed with every wash. And since they’re linen, they’re extra breathable on hot days when you’d rather not be wearing anything at all.

Colors: 13

Cleobella, Palma Wide Fedora — $140.00

Finally, no coastal cowgirl is complete without her hat, like this light, summery fedora from Cleobella. Its wide brim is perfect for keeping the sun out of your eyes and off your face, while the woven pressed palm keeps air moving (aka, you won’t sweat it out while it’s on.) Can we get a “Yeehaw?”