And makes the perfect spring layer.
When it comes to building your personal stylethere is a secret that I have leaned on over the years: investing in pieces that stand the test of time. And for me, there is no better illustration than my worn and faded denim western shirt.
“A denim shirt? Is this your big style lesson? I hear you, this is definitely not an everyday item of clothing or even a basic. But this shirt has had a continuous ebb and flow in my wardrobe for seven years, and it has taught me more about personal style than any statement piece.
The denim western shirt has a rich history in American culture, with deep roots in workwear and fashion. From its beginnings as a practical garment for cowboys and ranch hands to its iconic appearances in films, this shirt has become a symbol of rugged individualism and effortless cool. Whether it’s old school actors like Steve McQueen or any contemporary character that needs a rugged touch like Joe by Pedro PascalI am in The last of usthe denim shirt has endured decades of trend transition. Damn, even the elderly Men stunning in the western shirt.
When I first purchased this shirt at Gap on sale for $30 in 2017, I had no idea how much wear I would get from it. At first, I wore it slowly, worried that it would be too costumey for frequent use. The perfect blend of ruggedness and refinement, yet memorable. But over time, I found the denim shirt to be really easy to wear, with its loose fit drapea light blue hue that pairs well with many colors of pants and top layers, and unique decorative elements like pearl snaps and triangular chest pockets that add a casual, retro touch, contrasting with the shirt style typical pimples that I had.
But as time went on and my style evolved, I found myself resorting to it less and less. It wasn’t a conscious decision – just a natural change in my tastes. It was still worn, but not often. That is, until recently.
Over the past year, I’ve rediscovered my love for this denim western shirt. I’ve worn it more in the last six months than I did in the previous two years combined. But here’s the thing: I use it in a different way than before.
Instead of buttoning it up like I usually did, I wear it open, like a light shirt jacket. It’s the perfect layer for warm-weather shoulder seasons, when a coat is too much, but a summer shirt just isn’t enough. And the best? It adds an effortless touch to any outfit, whether I’m dressing it up or keeping it casual.
The western denim shirt is a real chameleon, adapting to different styles and eras. It’s as much a nod to the rugged cowboys of the Wild West as it is to the relaxed, bohemian vibe of the 1970s. Or the action heroes of the last decade. This versatility is what has made it such a durable and essential piece in my wardrobe.
The combination of the denim shirt worn open and a well-worn t-shirt creates a look that is both retro, southwest and modern. It’s a style that feels especially at home here in Southern California, where the laid-back vibe and unpredictable weather make light layering essential this time of year.
Just like your favorite pair of jeans, a denim western shirt only gets better with age. Wear and fading add character and tell a story, making the shirt a true extension of your personal style. And if you notice any holes, don’t hesitate to repair it and keep rocking it – these repairs will only add to its rugged charm.
And the best? You don’t need to break the bank to get your hands on one. While there are certainly premium options from brands like Todd Snyder, Point TaylorAnd Flint and tinderyou can also find great denim shirts with virtually the same design from more affordable everyday brands like Levi’sOr Amazon Essentials.
That’s the beauty of this iconic garment: it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of your budget or fashion expertise. It’s a true every man’s shirt, a piece that can be dressed up or down, worn by anyone from the rancher to the city dweller.
That’s the lesson I learned from my own aging denim western shirt from Gap: When you invest in well-constructed, durable pieces that you actually love to wear, you’re not just buying clothes. You’re building a wardrobe that will grow with you, adapting to your changing tastes and needs over time.
So if you’re looking to build a wardrobe that lasts, start with the classics. Look for pieces that match your personal style, pieces that you can imagine wearing in different ways over the years. And don’t be afraid to spend a little more for quality if you know you will get a lot of use out of it.
Here’s to those budget-friendly finds that last and the unexpected style heroes who teach us valuable lessons along the way. May we all find our own version of the perfect denim western shirt – and wear it into the ground for years to come.