As summer approaches, you ladies might be looking for ways to beat the heat while still looking fashionable. In true Western style, Allens Boots has a solution that gets the job done and keeps you looking cool: short women’s boots! You can be cute and cool when you wear these bad boys. (Because, let’s face it, whoever said that “Southern belles don’t sweat, they glisten” may never have been to Texas in the middle of July.) Cowboy boots are the perfect solution to summer footwear; they’ll last and last, so you can wear them on any summer adventure, and they look great with everything (even non-western wear). Just be sure that you care for your cowboy boots during the summer so they’ll always be ready for the next summer excursion. As a bonus, short boots are also a little less expensive than most full-size women’s boots.

So with the sweltering season just around the corner, here are our top five picks for short women’s boots this summer!

First up, the Women’s Soco Shortie Boots in Black. These lil’ kickers are decked with square gold studs all around the ankle and made out of quality black leather that’s been a bit roughed up for an edgy look. The side zipper ensures that your foot will stay put no matter how much two-steppin’ you do.

Also at the top of our summer women’s boots list are the decked-out Women’s Old Gringo Minibelinda Boots in Chocolate. These women’s boots are wrapped around the top with 5 rows of studs in all shapes and sizes. The distressed brown leather offers a relaxed, but edgy look.

If studded women’s boots aren’t quite your style, try on the Women’s Liberty Black Vintage Shortie Boots in Black. They have some seriously distinctive thick stitches along the side, collar, and toe bug seams. The short shaft sports some snakeskin, so you still get a little edge to your style, but much more subtly.

Next, a little detailing. Well, a lot, actually. The Women’s Corral Inlay Boots in Wine and Black are veritable work of art in footwear. The intricate black overlay covers a deep, rich red; surrounded by studs, these boots are definitely a signature piece in any closet. A snappy snipped toe completes the high-stylin’ look of these Corral women’s boots.

Finally, the sweet Women’s Fry Wyatt Overlay Shortie Boots are a little more traditional. Braided leather strips around the collar of the boot match the thick stitching running up the sides, and serve as a great complement to the minimal cutout details around the ankle. The round toe of these boots is smooth and shiny, making this pair of women’s boots an instant classic in any wardrobe.

College graduation season is here, y’all! Time once again to pull out your Gameday boots and show a little school spirit. As an Austin-born business, Allens Boots is seeing a lot of graduation activity ramping up around the University of Texas. UT 2013 commencement is occurring May 18th, but we also know that many of y’all around the country have already attended graduation, are looking forward to a graduation at the end of May, or may even be anticipating college graduation at the end of a summer semester.

Whether the college student you know is an undergraduate senior, a 3L student, a cadet, or new recipient of a master’s or doctorate degree, Gameday boots are the perfect graduation gift. To find the Gameday boots online from the school of your choice, simply narrow your selection on our website by women’s or men’s boots, school name, school nickname, size, and width. Gameday boots showcase a variety of styles for men and women sporting the insignias of your favorite schools. Gameday boots are a great gift that will last for years and years. They come in a variety of colors, and many schools’ boots are available in multiple designs. All Gameday boots feature the school’s logo or mascot at the top of the shaft, on the toe of the boot, and on the boot’s counter, as well as detailed stitching in the school’s colors all over the boot. Texas Christian University students might find a horned frog beneath the words “Go Frogs” on their heels, while University of Arkansas fans can sport a red Razorback, and Louisiana State University fans will find a tiger surrounded by purple stitching on their heels. From gators to tigers to bulldogs, Gameday boots has all kinds.

In addition to cowboy boots from Gameday boots, Allens Boots also proudly carries purses for the lovely college lady who wants to sport a little extra school spirit. These satchels are crafted with care, and feature thick, intricate stitching with your college’s name and symbol and name across quality leather. Completed with a top snap closure and an adjustable strap, these purses are a great accessory for everyday wear or attending college sporting events.

At Allens Boots, we are happy to help you find whatever you need for graduation day, whether you root for the Blue Devils or the Fightin’ Texas Aggies. Give your grad a gift that will add a little extra school pride to that walk across the stage. Check out our selection of Gameday boots online, or come in to one of our boot stores so we can help you in person.

Greetings, folks! How’s this spring weather treatin’ y’all? At Allens Boots, it’s so nice that its put us in the mood to pull out some new white Old Gringo boots from our shelves. As a result, we thought we’d go ahead and get into the swing of spring this week by addressing a lil’ ol’ Southern fashion rule about wearing white.

Now, this rule states that white can only be worn between Easter Sunday and Labor Day, and uniformly frowns on any belles or beaus who might defy this rule. But where does this rule about white clothing come from? And does it really need to be followed? We’ll let you decide for yourselves. As for us, we’ll just say that at Allens Boots, Old Gringo boots are always in season.

So why can’t you wear white after Labor Day? There are a lot of possible reasons for this rule, but the truth is that no one knows for sure. One popular theory is that the mid-20th century tastemakers in charge of the New York fashion editorials created this rule and it simply stuck. Another is that in the early 20th century, white clothing was a symbol of summer luxury adopted by the upper class during the vacationing months, and the rule developed as a result of those customs. Whatever the reason for the emergence of the “no white after Labor day” rule, there have been plenty of rule-breakers since its invention.

Whether you agree or disagree with the rules about wearing white, you can agree that May is a wonderful season to break out the lighter colors, and with them, some white Old Gringo boots! We’ve got some great new white Old Gringo boots in stock, and we’re dyin’ to share ‘em with y’all. Here are our favorite white Old Gringo boots in our inventory this season.

The Women’s Old Gringo Krusts boots in Brown are distressed and studded. These Old Gringo boots are a combination of brown and white with gold studs and dark stitching with a square toe.

The Women’s Old Gringo Casteel boots in Chocolate showcase silver accents, featuring studs along the collar and wingtip and a medallion on the saddle of the boot featuring a cowgirl and a lariat.

For something simple and sweet, pull on the Women’s Old Gringo Sheridan boots in Bone. These Old Gringo boots are adorned with simple flowers and subtle stitching all over the boot. They’ll last spring and summer all the way through, and will match just about any summer outfit.

For a new twist on an old favorite, try the Women’s Old Gringo Sweet Revita boots in Bone. They have leather faux laces running up the sides of the shaft and in a crisscross pattern over the top of the vamp. These unique accents are rounded out by thick, intricate white stitching all over these Old Gringo boots.

Are white Old Gringo boots not quite your style? Have no fear! Allens Boots has Old Gringo boots for every spring look. Whether you’re looking for short boots, colorful patterns, new workin’ boots, or traditional cowboy boots, we’ve got ‘em all. Come visit our South Congress location tonight for First Thursday (we’re open ‘til 10)! And whether you visit us in Round Rock or Austin, we’ll help you pick out the perfect pair of Old Gringo boots for spring.

Y’all might have noticed that we’ve been working through some our new inventory on the Boot Blog as of late. Well, we’ve got some beautiful new Justin boots in our inventory, and we can’t wait to share ‘em with you!

Why? Well, we just can’t help ourselves. Justin boots are an Allens Boots favorite, and have been for many years. The Justin Boots brand itself has been around since 1879, and prides itself on the craftsmanship and detail that goes into every pair of Justin boots. In fact, there are more than 100 steps involved in the process of making a pair of Justin boots. The final result combined classic boot craftsmanship with advanced shoe technology, making a quality boot that will last.

The practical purpose of a traditional cowboy boot’s heel is to prevent the rider’s foot from slipping out of the stirrup when riding on horseback. To those not riding the open range, however, the heel of a cowboy boot is a fashion statement, and may be altered. That’s where the new Just Torino boots come in. These boots for the ladies are a little taller than the norm, and sport a classy Cuban heel for the modern cowgirl. Here are two of the Torino styles we think the Western-wearin’ ladies will love.

The chocolate-brown Women’s Justin Torino Boots Testa are all about stitched details. Beautiful orange, red, and white thread adorns either side of the shaft in an intricate design. The collar of the boot features a unique cutout that lets a softer brown and light tan show through. At a height of 11”, and featuring Justin’s patented J-Flex Comfort System, these Justin boots are perfect for everyday use.

The Women’s Justin Torino Boots Saddle have even more height than the Testa Torino boots. The Saddle Torino boots stand at 13” with a lovely Cuban heel and a higher shaft, making them idea for a night on the town or even just a dressy casual day. The brown leather collar overlay features cutouts and subtle stitching details in colors that complement the blue and yellow designs stitched along the shaft. And because these Justin boots also sport the J-Flex Comfort System, they are made for comfort as well as style.

Looking for more Justin boots? We have Justin boots for the fellas and the kiddos as well! Come on down and visit our Austin and Round Rock boot stores’ locations to let us help you pick out your perfect pair.

We believe that kids’ boots should be just as durable and good lookin’ as the boots of their grownup counterparts. Cowboy boots are meant to last, so they are made to stand up to any amount of rowdy roughhousin’, playin’ pretend, hikes, schooldays, dress-ups, and all of the other challenges life throws at footwear for the kiddos. Ariat has proven to be a dependable boot brand that serves up style alongside sturdy construction for men’s, women’s, and kids’ boots alike. This week, we’re focusing on boots for the youngin’s, so the kids in your life can go clad in the best cowboy boots. From left to right, here are some new Ariat kids’ boots in our inventory that will stand up to anything the kids might get up to.

The Kids’ Ariat Quickdraw Boots in Brown are kids’ boots made with classic Ariat quality construction and care. The uppers are made of premium full-grain leather, the outsoles are made to resist wear, and Ariat’s 4LR technology provides comfort to little feet.

The Kids’ Ariat Hacienda Boots in Brown are miniature versions of Ariat’s women’s Hacienda boots. These kids’ boots are ideal for the lil’ cowgirl who wants to mimic her mama with some girly style. Lovely white inlays adorn the collar and ear pulls of these light brown kids’ boots, and each boot sports a side zipper for easy-on, easy-off capabilities.

The Kids’ Ariat Brushrider Boots in Tan speak to the wild child. These boots feature a white classic collar overlay with big pull holes, and a vibrant red shaft is complemented by a brown foot with a wide square toe.

The Kids’ Ariat Tooled Boots in Black add a little detail to the already finely-constructed tradition of Ariat kids’ boots. The shaft and wingtip are constructed of beautiful black and brown leather that is tooled with floral patterns, complemented by a scalloped collar. These kids’ boots are great for dressing up or dressing down.

Wondering what other new kids’ boots we have in stock? Come check out our Justin boots and Old West boots for little feet, as well as any number of boots by brands like Tony Lama, Old Gringo, and Lucchese. Come say “howdy” at our stores in Austin or Round Rock, and we’ll be happy to set you right up with the perfect pair of boots.

Fringe has long been a part of western fashion. Western shirts, jackets, skirts, and even women’s boots have all sported fringe at one time or another. Much of Western fringed clothing and accessories owe their roots to Native American clothing, which was in turn was adopted by European settlers. Buckskin clothing, popular among frontiersmen, was often trimmed with fringe or quills in order to wick water away when wet. It was meant to be a functional detail, but soon made its way into the rest of Western fashion, and has been around ever since. For example, you might be familiar with the skirts of the sharp-shooting Annie Oakley, the costumes of showman Buffalo Bill, or the Western-style shirts worn by the famous singer and actor Roy Rogers. Today, fringe is still a big part of Western fashion, as evidenced right here at Allens Boots. From the, er, “fringe” of cowboy boot fashion, we bring you these fine women’s boots to add to your collection.

This 11-inch pair of women’s boots is the perfect combination of the classic cowboy boot and a little Western fringe. The Women’s Lucchese Calf Boots in Chocolate and Turquoise are a colorful but casual addition to any Western wardrobe. Fine, detailed stitching covers the front and back of the shaft, while oversized chocolate stitching adorns the turquoise collar, wingtip, and counter. Long strips of fringe hang from the boot’s ear pulls. For those who want something more neutral, this pair of Lucchese women’s boots is also available in a natural tan color.

Reminiscent of a fringed moccasin, the Women’s Liberty Black Vegas Faggio Boots are a short, sweet alternative to a traditional cowboy boot. Traditionally worn by various Native American tribes, as well as by trappers and hunters in early America, the moccasin has made a comeback in modern fashion as comfortable footwear. Liberty Black seems to have put a Western twist on this frontier favorite, turning them into women’s boots that make a subtle but unique statement. With two layers of soft fringe, a round toe, and a low heel, these boots are comfortable and casual.

For the wild ones, the Women’s Liberty Black Mulan Boots in Rojo might do the trick. These women’s boots are made from distressed bright red leather, and feature leather fringe along both vertical seams of each shaft. The edges of the collar are scalloped, with silver studs dotting each curve. A black outsole, heel, and inside complete the look of these women’s boots.

For more fringed fun, visit Allens Boots in Round Rock or Austin. We’ll help you find women’s boots, men’s cowboy boots, western wear of all kinds, and much more!

Y’all might have noticed a theme as of late, so we’ll admit it: we’ve been catering to the fellas lately. After all, why mess with a good thing? This week the spotlight is on Rockmount apparel, a brand that sports an interesting history and fine western fashion. Did y’all know that the Rockmount brand was the first to introduce western shirts with snaps, as well as the first commercially-produced bolo ties? It’s true. The brand helped introduce western fashion into the American mainstream, and has since been a constant influence for more than 50 years.

Rockmount was established in Denver, Colorado in 1946 by Jack A. Weil, and has been handed down three generations. Jack A. Weil popularized a new kind of western fashion, his son Jack B. Weil (stick with us, now) expanded the types of designs and places Rockmount apparel was sold across the country, and his son, Steve Weil, increased Rockmount’s popularity on an international scale (we’re talkin’ Europe and Asia, y’all).

Since the beginning, Rockmount has sought to improve and perfect all kinds of western wear. The result has been a distinctive look that appeals to cowboys in need of the niceties when dressing for the rodeo or to go into town. Rockmount apparel fits a little slimmer than other western shirts, which not only looks better on cowboys, but is less likely to get snagged on anything while riding or working on the ranch (though today Rockmount apparel comes in both fits). Likewise, the aforementioned snaps hold better than buttons, also keeping pockets more securely closed.

So, really, the best thing about Rockmount apparel is that it combines western fashion with range-friendly function, striking a balance between dude ranch apparel and workin’ clothes. Oh, and it is predominantly produced in the U.S. Being an American product, Rockmount feels that Rockmount apparel ought to be made domestically. So when you buy Rockmount apparel, you can be sure your purchase is truly in the spirit of the West.

Want to check out Rockmount apparel for yourself? Our selection of Rockmount apparel and all other kinds of men’s western shirts is sure to please.

Also, a friendly reminder to Austinites: tonight is First Thursday on South Congress Avenue, so Allens Boots will be open until 10 PM! Come say “howdy,” and we’ll be happy to help you find anything you need, from cowboy boots to Stetson hats!

As you know by now, we have a variety of new boots in our inventory! Among these we have a ton of Ariat boots, specifically men’s work boots. Fellas, we know y’all do a lot of different jobs, but that all of them require dependable footwear for safety and comfort. This week we’ve sorted through our new Ariat boots and found a variety of workboots, so you can pick the one that’s best for the work that you do. These Ariat boots were made for walkin’, waterproofin’, slippin’ and slidin’, hikin’, and all other kinds of work.

First up, the Men’s Ariat Workhog Boots. Ariat’s Workhog safety boots are made with the tough stuff in mind. These boots are made with a wide square safety toe, and all kinds of durable construction. To start, they have full-grain leather uppers and an 11” shaft for protection, both of which are double-welted. The outsole promises traction and is self-cleaning, while the EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning, making for a comfortable boot that lowers foot fatigue. These Ariat boots are recommended for those who do climbing or ladder work.

Next up, something a little outside of the western footwear zone. But don’t be fooled! The Men’s Ariat Flexpro Boots in Black are no less dependable. These full-grain leather Ariat boots are oil-resistant and slip-resistant, and provide support and rebound. They are even metal detector-friendly! We carry them in both black and desert brown.

Last, the Men’s Ariat Workhog Pull-on H20 Composite Toe Boots in Golden Grizzly color. Another from the Ariat’s dependable Workhog line, these babies are waterproof, fully equipped to keep out rain, snow, mud—you name it. The composition toe is non-metallic, but still provides plenty of protection on the job. Sporting a roper toe, Duratread outsole, and EVA midsole, these Ariat boots promise great performance for most any job.

Interested in more workboots, safety boots, or cowboy boots? We have all kinds, so come visit one of our stores and let our knowledgeable salesfolk help you find the Ariat boots that fit the job.

Whoa there, Texans, keep your cowboy hats on! Now that the crowds of South by Southwest-goers have finally settled down, we hope y’all have been enjoying this springtime weather. During the South by Southwest festival this year, folks from New York to Seattle stopped by to say hello and to pick up their own slices of Texas at Allens Boots. Many stopped by our South Congress location to stock up on cowboy hats, cowboy boots, and all other things western wear. We enjoyed seeing y’all, and this week we’d like to dedicate a little time to the edification of other cowboy hopefuls. That’s right, we’re gonna teach y’all how to dress with the best of the West. From cowboy hats to cowboy boots, head to toe, here we go!

There are many different styles when it comes to cowboy hats, but we like the Stetson Boss of the Plain Hats because they are a tried-and-true classic. It takes its name from one of the first cowboy hats designed by John B. Stetson in 1865, and is made to be durable and dependable. With a cattleman’s crease in the crown and a leather band around it, this felt cowboy hat’s up for most any adventure. Allens Boots has many other cowboy hats to choose from, including Resistol hats, so don’t think your choice of cowboy hats is limited.

Next up, a shirt for the cowboy in all of us. This Men’s Scully Anderson Apparel shirt has the signature large western yoke of the Scully brand, but it sports a little more subtlety than others of its kind. White twisted piping along the seams plus diamond-shaped silver snap closures give this shirt a little individuality, making it a great match for any number of cowboy hats.

We’ve already sung the praises of men’s Brighton belts, so we’ll just leave this one here for your consideration. Made from brown and black leather with silver accents, the Men’s Brighton Leegin Pueblo Braid Belts in Black belt is a sturdy, unique addition to a cowboy’s getup.

Lastly, the cowboy boots. Though we have plenty of boots to go with our cowboy hats, the Men’s Lucchese Mad Dog Roper Boots in Chocolate have proven to be a favorite, time and time again. Lucchese is a quality brand made to last the years, and everything from the materials to the construction that make a Lucchese cowboy boot guarantee that quality.

Now that you’ve been outfitted from cowboy hats to cowboy boots, come in to our stores in Round Rock or on South Congress Ave. to find out what cowpoke clothes are best for you.

For those of y’all born with green eyes, St. Patrick’s Day is a safe holiday. But those not naturally blessed with the gift of green must wear something of the emerald variety (like green Old Gringo boots) this Sunday, lest they suffer pinches from friends and enemies alike all day long.

Why do we pinch those who don’t wear green? The St. Patrick’s Day pinching tradition allegedly started America in the early 1700s. Irish celebrators believed that by wearing green, one would be invisible to leprechauns, who were liable to pinch anyone they could see. Thus, people would pinch those who were not wearing green as a reminder that they were susceptible to leprechauns’ antics.

Allens Boots would like to help y’all avoid any pain from passersby on St. Patrick’s Day this Sunday. We have a whole variety of green Old Gringo boots that will keep you well-protected from both leprechauns and pinch-happy people. Choose your favorites and pull them on for a Sunday of Irish celebration!

The Old Gringo Eagle boots are a popular style that will display your green proudly. They feature four stitched or inlayed eagles: one on the front and back of the shaft of the boot, one across the vamp, and one wrapping around the counter. For women, the Women’s Old Gringo Eagle Cruz Boots in Black and Green are a bright statement that adds some attitude to your St. Patrick’s Day gear. These Old Gringo boots are stitched with neon green thread on a classic black boot. Men can wear a shorter variation of these Old Gringo boots—the Men’s Old Gringo Eagle Boots in Blue and Green—which feature faded green eagles with tan inlay details on distressed, faded blue leather. Old Gringo Eagle boots are also made in all kinds of other brightly-hued combinations, including orange, pink, aqua, gray, red, and tan, as well as several styles of Old Gringo boots dotted with real Swarovski crystals.

If dark green is more your style, the Women’s Old Gringo Nevada Boots in Green might suit you better. Made from distressed forest green leather, these Old Gringo boots feature off-white stitching all over the boot, accented by an ornate toe medallion, a subtle pattern around the collar, and distressed brown soles.

Last, but not least, a pair of Old Gringo boots for springtime. The Women’s Old Gringo Sora Boots in Green are just one variation of the many styles of the Sora boot. Each pair is embroidered with beautiful flowers in vibrant colors just right for a spring wardrobe. Sora boots come in black, oryx, chocolate, brass, fire red, aqua, and more. These particular Old Gringo boots are made of a soft, almost mossy green, complementing its flowery stitching for a cheerful effect.

Looking for more Old Gringo boots? Call or stop by the Allens Boots in Round Rock (512-310-7600) or in Austin (512-477-1413) and let us help you find the right pair of green Old Gringo boots for St. Patrick’s Day!