Sales of western boots on the rise since the launch of “Cowboy Carter”

Western boots have a new protector in Beyoncé.

Sales of the country fashion staple jumped more than 20% in the week following the release of the music superstar’s album “Cowboy Carter,” according to consumer behavior firm Circana . This may be good news for the companies that make the iconic shoe, as well as other items that fit the same Wild West aesthetic.

“Cowboy Carter,” released late last month, marked the “Halo” singer’s foray into the country genre. Even before the release of the full album, Circana reported a notable increase in unit sales for this style of boots following the release of the singles “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “16 Carriages”.

The 32-time Grammy-winning artist’s latest project adds to a groundswell of cultural support for stagecoach-inspired styles. Louis Vuitton unveiled an American western line during Paris Fashion Week earlier this year, featuring models wearing everything from cowboy hats to bolo ties. This look has also been on offer during the current Eras tour, as some attendees choose to channel Taylor Swift’s pre-pop days as a country singer.

Retailers and industry enthusiasts have already taken note of the trend.

Beyoncé’s chart-topping album can boost same-store sales and help female shoppers. Boot barn, said Williams analyst Sam Poser. He raised his buy rating on the California-based retailer on Thursday and raised his price target from $33 to $113, now implying an upside of about 12%.

The start of busy seasons for rodeos and music festivals adds to that momentum, Poser said. With these positive trends, he said guidance for the current quarter and full fiscal year is expected to beat Wall Street consensus estimates.

“We have no doubt that there is a correlation” between the increased attention to Western clothing and the release of Beyoncé’s eighth studio album, Poser said.

Boot Barn shares have climbed more than 4% since the start of April, defying the broader market’s decline. This adds to the stock’s rally over the course of 2024, with shares surging about 30% from the start of the year.

Although cowboy boots can typify the western look, other pieces can ride the wave as well.

Levi Strauss CEO Michelle Gass told analysts earlier this month that the denim maker was working to ensure “the brand remains at the center of the culture.” This mission was made easier by “Levii’s Jeans,” a song from the “Cowboy Carter” album featuring Post Malone.

“I don’t think there’s a better piece of evidence or evidence than to have someone like Beyoncé, who shapes culture, name a song after us,” Gass said on the conference call. company results last week.

Gass said denim was “having a moment” and Western style was “really trending,” including in fashion and music.

But denim suppliers couldn’t avoid the recent market slump. Levi Strauss shares fell more than 3% in April. Brands Kontoorwhose models under the Wrangler brand include “cowboy cut” jeans, fell about 11% during the month.