Back in 1883, long before celebrities like John Wayne, Johnny Cash and Justin Timberlake sought out unique, handmade boots, the Lucchese brothers, sons of an Italian shoemaker, crafted equestrian-style cavalry boots for military officers stationed at Fort Sam Houston, near San Antonio.

Just like the Texas ranchers who requested cowboy boots, these soldiers demanded rugged apparel for riding and protection. And the Lucchese brothers delivered. As word of their skill and craftsmanship spread, Lucchese became the go-to bootmaker for officers and ranchers alike.

Today, Lucchese honors its cavalry heritage by offering a wide range of elegant riding and lieutenant styles as well as rugged Western-equestrian hybrids. These high-rise beauties work both in and out of the stable.

To help you ride your boots into warmer weather, we consulted Lucchese’s Director of Merchandising, Maegan Hulme. See below for Maegan’s tips on what to look for when choosing equestrian boots and how to style them for spring, incorporating some of the season’s latest trends.

“The equestrian silhouette provides a sleek, versatile foundation that easily transitions between seasons,” says Maegan. “These boots complete a look with corresponding style or they can provide an unexpected twist. But first, be sure to choose a timeless pair that suits you best.” 

Quest for Traditional Equestrian

When seeking true equestrian style, Maegan recommends keeping the three H’s and a T in mind:

1. Height: The boot’s top line should hit just above the widest part of your calf – think tall and sleek. 

2. Heel: By contrast, a classic riding heel is low and flat.

3. Hardware: Ornamentation like buckles and straps can add style and function, but choosing such accoutrements comes down to preference.

4. Toe: If it’s not almond-shaped, it’s not true equestrian.

Now that you know what to look for, here are Maegan’s hot looks for spring, featuring Lucchese’s top equestrian styles. Bonus: These ideas also work great with cowboy boots!

Denim Dressage

In our world, denim is always on trend. As temps rise, think lightweight denim and chambray in a wrap or shirt-dress variation paired with Valentina. This country/equestrian hybrid features timeless lines in rich natural leather with unique, hand-stitched details. Also consider distressed jeans, which offer a casual contrast to the conservative and more formal look of equestrian styles.

Upgrade in Suede

Suede is typically a cool-weather fabric, but lightweight versions in pale shades work well during seasonal limbo. Add a soft touch of the real thing or a faux version in leggings or a tank grounded with Riley, a regal beauty inspired by Lucchese’s history. Complete the look with a slim cardigan or blazer.

Forever Plaid

Plaid is more than just a passing fad, but the key is less is more. Balance a bold plaid shirt, wrap dress or light blanket scarf with Riley’s timeless details and feminine lines for a look that’s contemporary without being overdone.

Get Ruffled

Loose, fluttering layers and feminine ruffles work beautifully with equestrian boots; the clean, subtle silhouettes keep the look balanced. Start with a flowy dress or blousy top and add Nina, our classic lieutenant style in champagne snuff suede. Nina’s sleek silhouette and hardy stirrup buckles offset feminine ruffles with edgy contrast. Try incorporating Pantone’s 2016 color of the year, Rose Quartz, for a fresh, feminine touch.

Quite White

Classic, crisp whites pair beautifully with equestrian lines. Update the look with an oversized, boyfriend-style button down untucked over slim pants or jeans and throw on Riley or Valentina. Then reverse the idea by combining tall boots with your favorite white jeans.

Check out all of Lucchese’s equestrian styles and colors here.