Materials

• Genuine leather cowboy boots
• Scissors (anything tough enough to cut through leather)
• Fabric of your choice (the fabric I used was from a recycled floral shower curtain)
• 2-4 belts (depending on if you want to wrap two or one around each boot)
• Needle and thread or sewing machine (to sew the loose ends of the fabric together and make it look neat)
• Safety pins

I was searching through my closet for something to reconstruct and found a pair of boots I hadn’t worn in years. They still fit, so I decided to try something completely out of my comfort zone. I was inspired by a woman I follow on Instagram who runs a website and Instagram account called “Luxury Jones,” which consist of her incredible Do-It-Yourself work (i.e. reconstructed cowboy boots).

These boots were my first experiment with shoes and have continued to motivate my new DIY approach on style. I had an idea of exactly what I wanted as a final product and so I meticulously planned out how I would accomplish it.

The step-by-step process for this new western kick is simple, but requires a steady hand and great patience.

Begin with any pair of western boots. Place them side-by-side with the heels facing you. Measure the distance from the top of the boot down to the heel of the back of the boot, then slowly cut about three-quarters of the way down the back with your scissors until the flaps fold over fairly easily. The two backs should mirror one another.

Then, find the fabric you have already chosen and cut and place it around the folded flaps of the boots. Use the safety pins to keep the fabric tightly in place. Once the fabric is in its desired position, place either one or two belts around the work you’ve just constructed as you see fit. Repeat for the other boot. For an extra splash of flare, add tassels and/or feathers under the belts.

By applying this recommended technique, you have reconstructed your boots to match a more modern “western wear.” Paired with a pair of black high-waisted jeans, a white bodysuit and sweater, these boots are perfect for an ideal night on the town. Subtly eye-catching, rocking the “western wear” look can easily dress up or down an outfit.

This reconstruction of cowboy boots is well worth the 30 minutes it takes.

Ashley Beam can be reached at [email protected]