How to find the perfect Nashville Boots Cowgirl

Howdy, y’all!
As you know, I recently embarked on a thrilling new chapter for Sewing for My Sanity – Fabric Wanderlust! This journey is all about exploring the world, one fabric, food find, and fun experience at a time. My first stop? The vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee! There are a ton of reasons Nashville is the first stop, mostly personal, but also because the fabric, food and fashion are all intertwined. While exploring the city’s unique charm, I couldn’t resist putting together a Nashville Boot Shopping Guide after checking out the famous Nashville boots. As I’ve mentioned before, Fabric Wanderlust is the fusion of textile and sensory experiences interwoven in our lives.

Nashville is known for many things and I’ve expanded the experience in 5 bite sizes for your enjoyment:

1. Boots
2. Fabric Finds
3. 5 Things you didn’t know about Nashville
4. Virgin Hotel Review
5. Nashvile Must Have Budget Bites

Boots and Nashville

Now, Nashville and boots go together like peanut butter and jelly, so getting a Nashville boot shopping guide feels like a dream. But have you ever wondered how this city became the boot capital? It all started with the arrival of the first settlers in the late 1700s. They needed sturdy footwear for navigating the rugged terrain, and boots fit the bill perfectly. Over time, bootmaking evolved from a necessity to a craft, with skilled artisans creating beautiful and durable boots that became synonymous with Nashville’s identity. There is this silly thought that only tourists wear boots in Nashville, but I’m not sure where and how that got started. It’s the spirit of the place, like eating biscuits, peach jam, or peach butter in Georgia. If you did that thing in that place, does that somehow make this experience less valuable? I don’t live in Nashville anymore, so my thought is, I could honestly care less. I’m not sure why we all feel like we have to blend into a place; the difference is ultimately why we travel anyway.

Touristy but good…

And where better to experience this Nashville boot culture than on Broadway? This bustling street is a boot lover’s paradise! With stores lining the sidewalks, it’s a feast for the eyes. You’ll find everything from classic Western styles to trendy modern designs. And the deals! I even saw signs for “Buy 1 Get 2 Free” – for real at the well known Boot Country. People were crawling this place like crazy the day we perused Broadway. It’s hard to resist the temptation, especially with so many amazing options. One store that caught my eye was Boot Barn, with its massive selection and friendly staff. It’s definitely worth a visit for any boot enthusiast. Besides boots, they are fully stocked with both men’s and women’s apparel, from hats to jeans.

One last stop on the Nashville boot hunt

I was started to feel a little dejected because I had been in several stores but still had not found “the pair”. This actually became my inspiration for writing a Nashville Boot Shopping post. I was like, maybe I’m not fit for this boot thing. I found a pair I liked and each time my size was sold out.

Ugh! One last stop is Betty Boots, a small and somewhat unsuspecting shop with a cute logo. I wasn’t hopeful. Then, I saw this amazingly intricate pattern of embroidery. I ran my fingers across the stitching.

As a person who sews and values details, precision, accuracy, and sheer sewing perfection, I exhaled. My husband, who was determined to return home with a cowgirl, said, “Try them on”. The clerk returned with my size and I placed in my foot in the most lovely shoe. Now since this was my 8th or 9th try on I will tell lyou what every clerk told me a. Itried on boots.

Perfect Nashville Boot Shopping Tips

• 1) Find a style you like – in particular, boot height. Depending on when and how you plan on wearing your new boots this could make or break youro final selection. For me, I’m short so the taller boot is a challenge. I tend to stick to the 7″ style. The shorter boot. The 15″ boot is literally my entire leg so….
• 2) Look for a color or pattern that makes your heart pitter-patter. As you can imagine, boots, not just boots in Nashville, come in all sorts of patterns – floral, festive, geometric, metallic, suede, embroidered,, etc. The stitching can be quite intricate or plain.

• 3) Start with your standard size, but don’t get hung up on that. I tried on my standard size a few times without feeling comfortable. I believe this has a lot to do with the toe box (see below).
• 4) The boot should fit around your foot llike a firm handshake. I know, it sounds strange but it’s true. This is why I feel like buying my boots in Nashville was so important. I actually got to ttry them on and decide what fit well
• 5) The back of your foot, the heel, should release like a flip-flop. yes, I just used flip-flop and boot in the same paragraph

My shoe-shopping rules

Why has no one clued this black girl in on this amazing shoe? Listen, my shoe collection is one to be proud of. I do not excessively buy shoes and I have rules when it comes to buying shoes. They must be comfortable, functional, and fun. If any of these three is missing I pass. Therefore, that really pretty stiletto that makes me want to say bad words beause they hurt so much will not ever be purchased. No thank you. I will pass. The same thing goes for an ugly comfortable shoes. I love my feet and fashion alike. My point is these boots from my Nashville haul is both beautiful and comfortable. Score!

Back to Boots….

Finding Your Perfect Boot Fit

Now, I know what you’re thinking: how do you even begin to choose the right boot? It can be overwhelming! Here’s what I learned from my Nashville boot adventure:
• Know Your Size (and Then Some): Boot sizing can be tricky. Don’t just rely on your regular shoe size. Get your feet measured and try on different sizes in different brands. Remember, leather stretches, so a snug fit is usually best.
• Consider Your Lifestyle: Are you looking for a boot for everyday wear, special occasions, or riding? Think about how and where you’ll be wearing your boots.
• Explore Different Styles: From classic Western to roper to ankle boots, there’s a style for everyone. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
• Pay Attention to the Details: Look at the stitching, the leather quality, the heel height, and the toe shape. These details make all the difference.
• Walk the Walk: Once you’ve found a pair you like, walk around the store in them. Make sure they feel comfortable and supportive.
A World of Boots

Speaking of styles, let’s break down some of the most popular women’s boot options:

• Western Boots: The classic cowboy boot, with a pointed or rounded toe, a Cuban heel, and often intricate stitching or embroidery.
• Roper Boots: These are Shorter than Western boots, with a lower heel and a rounded toe, making them more practical for everyday wear.
• Ankle Boots: The pefect boots for shorties like me, these are versatile and stylish, ankle boots can be dressed up or down.
• Riding Boots: And of course for the girl with the amazingly long legs, tall boots designed for horseback riding, with a sturdy construction and a low heel or just being super fashionable.

Falling Head Over Heels for Old Gringo

These Old Gringos were love at first sight. These boots aren’t just made, they’re crafted. Each pair is handmade in Mexico, carrying with it a rich tradition of bootmaking artistry. The attention to detail is incredible. From the hand-tooled leather to the intricate embroidery and stitching, every element is meticulously executed. You can feel the history and the passion in every pair.

What truly sets Old Gringo apart is their dedication to creating unique pieces. No two pairs are exactly alike. The leather, the stitching, the embellishments – they all come together to form a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. I was immediately drawn to a pair with a classic silhouette but with the most beautiful floral embroidery I’ve ever seen. It was like they were made for me! The craftsmanship is impeccable, and I know these boots will last me a lifetime.

Ariat and Tecovas: A Boot Lover’s Paradise

Next up, I explored Ariat, known for their comfortable and durable boots. They have a huge range, from classic Western styles to more modern takes. I was really impressed with the technology they incorporate into their boots, like their ATS® technology for stability and cushioning. It’s clear they prioritize both style and comfort.

But the boot shopping spree didn’t stop there! I ventured into Tecovas, and let me tell you, the experience was unlike any other. First of all, the store itself is gorgeous, with a rustic yet modern vibe. And the aroma! Stepping into Tecovas is like stepping into a world of leather. That rich, earthy scent of handcrafted leather fills the air, and it’s absolutely intoxicating. But here’s the kicker: they offer you a complimentary beer while you shop! And it gets even better – you get to keep the cozy! These generanational boot makers craft unique cowboy boots in more than 200 steps in León, Mexico. I felt so relaxed and pampered while browsing their collection. It really added to the whole experience.

I ended up finding my perfect everyday boot there: the Sadie. It’s a classic ankle boot with a sleek silhouette and just the right amount of Western flair. I would be remissed if I didn’t mention the plethora of other places you can locally buy boots in Nashville and a few online:

• French’s Shoes and Boots: 126 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201; family owned for 3 generations ince 1899
• Betty Boots: 321 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
• Nashville Boot Co.: 603 8th Ave South Nashville, TN 37203
• Lane Boots: Women’s only; every pair is handmade in Leon, Mexico; unique teal bottom
• Lucchese: Texas brand; making boots since 1883

Boots: The Ultimate Fashion Accessory

Why are boots so important? Well, they’re more than just footwear. They’re a statement piece, a way to express your personal style. And they can completely transform an outfit. Remember my Know Me 2069 jeans pattern review? Imagine those jeans with a pair of sleek ankle boots or some bold Western boots. Totally different vibes, right?

Boots add a touch of confidence, a bit of edge, and a whole lot of style. They can elevate a simple outfit or complement a more elaborate one. And when it comes to sewing and designing clothes, boots are the perfect finishing touch. Much more than that, the cultural connection to boots, Nashville and Ameria is nothing short of interesting. Once a functional part of the new american wardrobe like denim, boots are worn on Friday and Saturday nights for partying and hanging out. Likely this fancy footwear originated in Spain in the 1600s and made it’s way to the western developing world in th 1800s. Like jeans, they were functional for cowboys and ranchers

So, my fellow sewing enthusiasts, embrace the power of boots! Whether you’re hitting the town or just running errands, a great pair of boots can make all the difference.

Stay tuned for more Fabric Wanderlust adventures! Next up, I’m diving into the world of Nashville’s vibrant fabric stores. Can’t wait to share my finds with you!