Erin Coulehan
Photography by
Annabella Mireles
The rugged allure of the Wild West is experiencing a stylish reinvention, blending luxury with timeless design to create a trend that is both polished and quintessentially cowboy. At the heart of this resurgence is El Paso – long celebrated as the Cowboy Boot Capital of the World – where craftsmanship and Western heritage converge. Now, one of the most revered names in bootmaking, Lucchese, is reaffirming its deep roots in this storied city with the opening of its third retail location in El Paso and first-ever flagship store in Downtown El Paso.
Tucked next to the iconic Plaza Theatre, this flagship location is more than just a place to buy cowboy boots – it’s an immersive fashion experience that pays homage to the Western ethos while appealing to modern sensibilities. With a nod to the city’s historic role in bootmaking, Lucchese’s new flagship underscores why El Paso remains the epicenter of fine Western footwear, a title earned through generations of master artisans perfecting their craft.
Giddy up.
“El Paso holds a special place in our history,” says Fallon Appleton, Senior Brand Communications Manager at Lucchese.
Lucchese’s legacy dates back to 1883, when the Lucchese family emigrated from Italy to Texas and began crafting boots for cavalry officers stationed near Fort Sam Houston. Over time, their dedication to quality and innovation earned them an unparalleled reputation, and by the 1980s, Lucchese had firmly established itself in El Paso, where its boots have been meticulously handcrafted ever since.
Today, El Paso is home to some of the world’s finest bootmakers, and Lucchese stands at the forefront of this tradition. Each pair of Lucchese boots passes through the hands of 180 to 200 artisans, undergoing a meticulous process that transforms raw materials into heirloom-quality pieces. From selecting the finest leathers to the precise cutting, stitching, pegging, and finishing, every step reflects a commitment to artistry and excellence.
“We’re excited to welcome everyone to experience this milestone: our flagship store,” Appleton shares.
But Lucchese’s new location isn’t merely a store; it’s a sartorial haven that champions high-quality craftsmanship and elevates Western fashion into the realm of luxury. While cowboy boots remain at the heart of Lucchese’s offerings, the flagship also features a curated selection of Western-inspired attire, from fur-trimmed vests and tailored blazers to dresses, handbags, and cowboy hats. These pieces honor Western traditions while appealing to a contemporary audience seeking versatile and fashion-forward designs.
“Western style is having a moment right now,” Appleton notes.
Thanks to hit shows like Yellowstone and style icons such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Post Malone, a new generation is embracing Western aesthetics, making cowboy boots a bold fashion statement beyond the ranch.
“You don’t have to commit to a full Western look to wear cowboy boots,” Appleton explains. “They’re versatile, available in a range of leathers, toe shapes, and heel heights, and there’s truly a style for everyone.”
Lucchese’s collection includes boots crafted from exotic materials like caiman and python, offering something for every taste – whether bold and daring or classic and understated.
Adding to the exclusivity of the flagship experience is a hidden door that leads to a premier agave speakeasy: EP Tasting Room. This intimate lounge offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, inviting guests to enjoy a curated selection of premium agave spirits in a setting that blends seamlessly with Lucchese’s signature aesthetic. Open during and after store hours, it enhances the boutique’s immersive appeal, encouraging visitors to linger, appreciate the craftsmanship on display, and connect with the heritage behind each product.
“This adds something truly special to the experience,” Appleton notes.
Lucchese’s new Downtown El Paso flagship embodies the spirit of the modern West, blending tradition, craftsmanship, and contemporary design. It’s more than a retail space; it’s a celebration of fashion, culture, and community – one that invites all to experience the enduring appeal of Western style, one handcrafted boot at a time. As El Paso continues to shape the future of cowboy bootmaking, Lucchese remains a beacon of excellence, carrying forward a legacy built on artistry, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
