Cowboy boots may be a perennial staple in states like Texas and Oklahoma, but they’re not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Louisiana, New Orleans in particular. Look a little closer though and a different picture emerges. Depending on the parish, there’s a surprising current of country chic woven into the local style. Case in point: I’ve yet to attend Jazz Fest or a Tulane football game without spotting them on nearly half the crowd.
Country music is now the fastest-growing genre in the U.S., and artists like Baskin, Louisiana native Lainey Wilson are bringing a distinctly modern take to country style. On the heels of the launch of her new brand, Golden West, I was eager to speak with creative director Michael Petry to learn more about the vision behind it and its Louisiana roots.
What is the significance of the brand name?
The name Golden West represents the idealized American West, but through a lens of refined craftsmanship. It’s inspired by the state of mind that values quality and heritage.
What gap in the market made this brand feel right for the consumer today?
There’s never a bad time for Western! But I felt that there was room for a voice like Lainey’s and the idea of storytelling through unique design and the boots as that expression. Every pair of boots has a story to tell. Not just from the brand but more importantly from the consumer. These boots will take them places and create memories with every step they take. Today’s consumers are looking for authenticity and functionality but with the comfort and silhouette of a modern luxury item. Golden West offers durable sophistication – tough when it counts and graceful everywhere else. That feels right whether you’re in the music studio, out with friends or on a ranch.
Were there any specific places in Louisiana that influenced the color palette or materials used in the boots?
Obviously, Lainey is from Baskin so her hometown and where she came from comes into our thinking in every product we make. I’ve been lucky enough to spend a lot of time in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, so Louisiana absolutely bleeds into every aspect of our design process. Our newest boot, The Wild Magnolia, is a nod to the Louisiana state flower. With soft pink and green magnolias on the boot, it is a beautiful tribute.
Did the creative team incorporate any materials or textures that are unique to Louisiana’s environment or culture?
With the Wild Magnolia we took inspiration from the Louisiana state flower and used a unique 3D embroidery to give the boot dimension as a nod to Louisiana. Louisiana is a state that has so much tenderness and beauty but also has a lot of depth and diversity. We wanted to create something that expressed those same ideals. Stay tuned for more to come as you might see some alligator soon.
How do you hope this collection resonates with people outside of traditional Western wear markets?
You don’t need to own a horse to wear Golden West. We want people all across the country to pull these on and feel grounded. It’s about bringing one’s story and spirit of independence into a contemporary wardrobe.
If these boots were a Lainey Wilson song or lyric, what would it be?
Ha! I get this question a lot. It’s hard to pick just one. Boots are similar to songs. Each tells a story. No two pairs are alike, and they create such great emotion and memories. But if I have to pick one song today…”Can’t Sit Still” is the choice for obvious reasons!
To shop the brand, head to Golden West website! To see Lainey Wilson perform, head to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on Friday, May 1, at 5:20 p.m.
