In the 1970s, a rebellious musical point of view began to emerge in reaction to the polished, commercial country sounds dominating Nashville. From that rejection to the restrictions of the music industry, Outlaw Country was born, reclaiming the genre’s rough edges and injecting it with rock-and-roll swagger. Among several artists championing this sub-genre was Waylon Jennings, clad in black leather and always questioning the system. With his signature gravelly voice and unapologetic attitude, Jennings embodied the movement’s rebellious heart. The newest artist to join the Daydreamer roster with the launch of our Waylon Jennings Littlefield Texas Weekend Tee and Waylon Jennings Love Outlaws Merch Long Sleeve, the long standing relationship between country music and fashion and the lasting influence of Outlaws has been high on our minds.
Jennings’ style—like his music—was iconic, a blend of rugged cowboy grit and a devil-may-care swagger that still influences country fashion today. There’s no denying the intertwined relationship between country music and fashion. And lately, this Western-inspired fashion has been making waves again in the mainstream. From pop stars embracing cowboy aesthetics to modern twists on vintage country styles, this trend is everywhere— red carpet and casual streetwear alike. Whether you're a lifelong country fan or just want to rock some cool western-inspired graphic tees to honor the outlaw spirit, this guide will help you tap into the rising trend of country-inspired style.
The History of Country Music in Fashion
While it’s highly stylized and all over fashion media today, the Western aesthetic owes its roots to practicality. Cowboy boots, wide-brimmed hats, fringed jackets, and durable denim were worn by ranchers and cowboys to withstand the rigors of life on the range. Over time, these utilitarian staples evolved into the style statements we know, thanks- in large part- to country music legends. Artists like Hank Williams and Waylon Jennings wearing these garments as pieces of their identities helped popularize this rugged, rebellious look, spreading the influence throughout the nation and making the cowboy aesthetic synonymous with country music itself.
As country music grew in popularity, the style branched out from its ranch roots. Rhinestones, bold patterns, and embroidery began to define the stage outfits of country stars, turning once-practical cowboy wear into glamorous and playful western wear. The “Nudie Suit” era of the 60s and 70s, characterized by bright, bedazzled suits made famous by artists like Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton, brought this trend to the mainstream.
The Resurgence of Country Aesthetics in Fashion Today
In recent years, country music has smashed through genre boundaries, with artists like Beyonce, Lil Nas X, and Morgan Wallen blending country, pop, and hip-hop. Then this summer, we saw an album from Sabrina Carpenter with noticeable Dolly influence, and new Kacey Musgraves. This crossover has brought country music—and its fashion—into the wardrobes of a younger, more diverse audience. Alongside trends like cowboy boots moving from niche accessories to closet staples, there’s been a noticeable blending of urban and rural style aesthetics that has naturally helped push all this forward.
Moreover, we have the all-powerful influence of nostalgia at play, and the dream of simpler times. That’s come to life throughl aesthetics like “cottagecore” and even “ranchcore”. There’s been a strong trend toward nostalgia in fashion, with many people gravitating toward vintage-inspired looks that evoke the past. The Western aesthetic’s classic elements like cowboy boots, vintage band tees, and denim jackets, tap into this desire for timeless, throwback fashion. Country icons are seen as authentic figures from another time, so their style becomes aspirational.
With the rise of festivals like Stagecoach, western-inspired outfits are now synonymous with festival fashion. Fringe, denim, cowboy boots, and, of course, vintage country band tees are now essentials for anyone heading to a music festival or just wanting to infuse some country vibes into their daily looks.
The Influence of Country Music Legends on Fashion
Legends like Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, and Waylon Jennings aren’t just icons in music—they’re also icons in fashion. Take Johnny Cash, for example. His understated, rebellious “Man in Black” aesthetic has been embraced by generations, with his all-black outfits symbolizing defiance and individuality. Wearing a Johnny Cash graphic tee isn’t just about repping his music—it's about channeling that cool, effortless vibe that made Cash a fashion icon.
Loretta Lynn, on the other hand, took a different approach, leaning into the Southern belle aesthetic. With her long, flowing dresses, Lynn merged femininity with country grit, showing that women could be both tough and glamorous. This is a huge source of inspiration today bridging country, cottagecore, and classic vintage inspirations.
Of course, Waylon Jennings, with his rugged, outlaw image, brought an edge to country fashion that still resonates today. And right there next to him was Willie Nelson, whose iconic style evolution storied his own journey to choosing self over the system. He grew out his hair (which he’d later tie into two braids), traded button-downs for graphic tees, and tied a signature bandana across his forehead.
When you wear a Waylon Jennings graphic, Willie Nelson merch, or a Loretta Lynn concert tee, you’re not just showing off your love for music. You’re tapping into the style of legends who defined an era and continue to inspire modern country fashion.
How to Style Country-Inspired Outfits Featuring Western Graphic Tees
Ready to rock the country aesthetic? There are so many ways to tap into this awesome story of sound and style. Here are some outfit ideas to help you style your country-inspired wardrobe for fall.
- Pay Tribute to the Legends: An easy way to bring the influence of country music legends and stars into your wardrobe is to do so literally. Rocking a Johnny Cash graphic tee or a Morgan Wallen tour t-shirt is an easy way to channel country music icons across time.
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Keep it Classic: The first thing you might think of when styling a countrycore outfit is always an option. There are garments that suit the aesthetic from head to toe. Pair your tee with classic blue jeans, a big belt buckle, a leather jacket, and, of course, cowboy boots for a casual cowboy style that’s perfect for fall. You can even throw a cowboy hat in the mix if you’re feelin’ committed.
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The Country Bohemian: Want something a bit more free and more feminine? Try pairing your tee with a flowing maxi skirt– this look is an easy, go-to modern, boho twist on western style. Boots are invited to this outfit too. And a slouchy leather bag could be cute while you’re at it.
- Cowboy Boots Are Everything: Ahh the iconic country-inspired staple! The fun thing is they have evolved past an accessory and into, also, a graphic symbol. That means you can rep them on more than just your feet. Graphic tees that celebrate this iconic footwear, like the Kick Off Your Boots Merch Tee or the Howdy Boots OS Tee, are perfect for embracing the trend while adding a playful element to your outfit. You can use this to juxtapose with other styles too, like pairing cowboy boot graphics with sneakers and a trucker hat.
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Nashville-Inspired Outfits: If you’re into the more polished side of country music fashion, Nashville’s style is where it’s at. This is the perfect blend of classic country staples with modern trends. The style is filled with graphic music tees. Then pair it with cut-off jeans shorts, hats (wide-brim if you wanna go there), sunnies, and yes– the cowboy boot, and you’re giving off serious Nashville vibes without being too costume-y.
- Western Aesthetic Meets Streetwear: Western-inspired graphic t-shirts can easily blend into everyday streetwear, too. In fact, the mixing of aesthetics gives it a really personal, stylized quality. It could be as simple oversized tees layered over leggings, worn with your favorite sneakers, or cropped country t-shirts paired with low-rise baggy jeans or jorts for that effortless cool thing.