Honestly, if you close your eyes and think of Reba McEntire, what do you see? It's probably that iconic red hair, a microphone, and, almost certainly, a killer pair of cowboy boots.
Reba isn't just a country music legend; she’s a walking, singing masterclass in how to wear western footwear without looking like you’re heading to a costume party. For her, it’s not a trend. It’s a lifestyle that started back in the Oklahoma dirt and carried her all the way to the Super Bowl and The Voice.
The Reality of Reba McEntire in Boots
Most people don’t realize that Reba’s obsession with boots wasn't born in a stylist's office. It started on the back of a horse. Growing up in Chockie, Oklahoma, she was a competitive barrel racer. We’re talking about a kid who literally used duct tape to keep her soles from falling off during a run because she couldn't afford a new pair right away.
That grit stays with her. When you see Reba McEntire in boots today, whether it's the "Anthem" boots she wore to sing the National Anthem or the "Queen" python boots from her Justin collection, you’re seeing someone who knows the difference between a boot that’s just for show and one that can actually handle some work.
She once told People that she owns over 85 pairs of boots. Can you even imagine? She had to build a custom boot wall in her closet just to keep them organized. But here’s the thing: she doesn’t just let them sit there and collect dust. She wears them on stage, in Vegas, and even around the house.
Why the Justin Collaboration Actually Matters
In 2017, Reba teamed up with Justin Boots to launch her own line. Usually, celebrity collaborations feel a bit... hollow? Like they just slapped a name on a box. But Reba is actually deeply involved in the design.
The collection, often called "Reba by Justin," is basically a map of her life.
- The "Nell" Boot: Named after her middle name (Nell), these feature fringe and studs.
- The "Hart" Bootie: A nod to her character on her sitcom, Reba.
- The "Radio" Boot: Inspired by her hit song "Turn On the Radio," which is basically the musical equivalent of a power suit.
The boots aren't just about the look, though. They use this thing called the J-Flex Comfort System. If you’ve ever worn cheap cowboy boots for more than two hours, you know the "foot ache" is very real. Reba’s line is designed for women who are actually on their feet, whether they’re loading a horse trailer or standing on a stage for a two-hour set.
Breaking the "Cowgirl" Stereotype
Reba is great at mixing high-end glam with rural roots. You’ll see her in a sequined gown one minute and then skinny jeans tucked into tall boots the next.
Remember the 2024 Super Bowl? She wore those blue cowboy boots with a matching blue fur jacket. She even joked on social media about it being "boots with the fur," a hilariously self-aware nod to the T-Pain song. That’s the magic of Reba. She doesn't take the "western" thing too seriously, even though she’s the Queen of Country.
She’s also been known to gift her custom boots to friends. She famously sent Gwen Stefani a pair of snakeskin boots with iridescent pink and purple flames. It was the perfect bridge between Reba's traditional world and Gwen’s "No Doubt" edgy aesthetic.
How to Style Boots Like Reba
If you’re trying to pull off the Reba McEntire in boots look without feeling like you’re "trying too hard," here is the unofficial guide based on her decades of fashion choices:
- The Jean Tuck: Reba has over 100 pairs of jeans. She often opts for a skinny or straight leg that tucks perfectly into the shaft of a tall boot. It lengthens the leg and shows off the embroidery on the leather.
- The "Shootie" Compromise: For people who find tall boots intimidating (or have wider calves), Reba pushed Justin to create the "shootie"—an ankle-height boot that gives you the western vibe without the bulk.
- Color Play: Don't stick to brown. Reba’s favorites often come in "Fancy" red, ivory, or even metallic silver.
The truth is, western wear can feel exclusive or "costumey" to people who didn't grow up in it. Reba’s influence has helped bridge that gap. She’s made it okay to wear a snip-toe boot with a business suit or a suede bootie with a summer dress.
Lessons from the Queen’s Closet
What we can actually learn from Reba's footwear journey is pretty simple: quality over everything. She still remembers that first pair she bought after winning third place in a rodeo. She treats her boots like gear, even when they're covered in Swarovski crystals.
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She also acknowledges that fashion should be functional. She designed sneakers for her line specifically for when cowgirls "get through loading their horse up in the trailer" and want to take their boots off. It’s that level of practical empathy that makes her style so relatable.
If you want to step into this look, start with a classic snip-toe in a neutral color. It’s the most versatile shape Reba wears. From there, you can move into the bolder textures like ostrich or python once you feel confident.
Practical Next Steps for Your Boot Collection:
- Check the Shank: If you’re buying western boots, make sure they have a solid shank (the part under the arch). This is what provides the support Reba needs for her long stage shows.
- Leather Care is Non-Negotiable: Reba’s boots look pristine because they’re maintained. Use a leather conditioner every few months to prevent cracking, especially on exotic skins.
- Size Up for Comfort: Many western boots run narrow. If you plan on wearing thick socks or being on your feet all day, consider going up a half size or looking for "B" or "C" widths depending on your foot shape.