Holding on to Legacy: The Man Behind "What a Cowboy Wears"

Through candid storytelling and curated style, Collin Low brings timeless values to western wear

In an age where fast fashion dominates feeds and trends change by the hour, What a Cowboy Wears (WACW) stands as a testament to enduring values and timeless style. The curated Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube platforms aren’t just a collection of boots, hats, and pearl snaps—they are a living tribute to faith, family, and a legacy rooted in cattle, land, and character. 

Behind it all is a man whose journey is as genuine as the gear he wears. Collin Low was raised on family land once run by his great-grandfather and grandfather (Collin's "papa"), his story weaves through rural roots, faith-driven purpose, and a passion for preserving cowboy culture in both its fashion and values.

Through candid storytelling and his own unique style, he brings a real voice to western wear, not as a costume but as a daily expression of grit, legacy, and masculinity. In this exclusive interview, we go behind the posts to explore his inspirations, intentions, and where the trail might lead next. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Palomino County: Can you tell us a bit about your background and what initially drew you to cowboy fashion?

Collin Low: My parents built a house on my great-grandparents' land. Papa Sonny, my great-grandpa, and Papa Paul, his son, ran cattle there. I was naturally drawn to the cattle and the “cowboy style.” I didn’t always dress in western wear, but when I got horses and cattle of my own a few years ago, I went back to my roots—and it just feels like home.

PC: Was there a defining moment that made you say, “This is the style I want to explore and celebrate”?

CL: Legacy. Not just creating my own, but continuing what came before me. I don’t dress exactly like my dad or great-grandpa, but they influence me deeply—their toughness, resolve, and faith. That shapes the way I live and dress.

PC: Did you grow up cowboy, or is this more of a personal journey?

CL: I wouldn’t say I was a full-on cowboy, more rural/farm living. But cattle paid the bills for Papa Sonny. I helped feed in the winter, hauled hay in the summer, and worked calves. I was being as cowboy as I could be.

PC: What inspired you to start the WACW social media channels?

CL: If you enjoy something, you want to share it. I love the western lifestyle, and I want to help preserve it. Grit, determination, and toughness should never fade. I share what I wear not just for those curious about western wear and life—but because cowboy gear tells a story about the values behind it.

PC: How would you describe your creative vision?

CL: I create because I believe it’s part of who I am, rooted in my faith in Jesus Christ. If I can grab attention with something visual, I can hopefully point people to something deeper.

PC: Do you see your platform as documentation or reinterpretation?

CL: It’s more of a connection. I want to help people add the cowboy mindset to their life—whether they punch cows or punch a clock. What I wear is just the starting point.

Collin on Fashion, Culture, and Masculinity

PC: How do you see cowboy style evolving today in relation to masculinity?

CL: It has to stay rooted in strength and determination. Otherwise, it’s just a costume. You don’t have to be a cowboy by trade, but you should respect the mindset and values that come with it.

PC: How do you balance authenticity with style?

CL: I really just try to be myself. I’m not trying to pretend like I’m a big rancher, or something I’m not. Some folks have more land, some have less. I’m honest about where I’m at. That keeps things real.

PC: Are men embracing cowboy aesthetics differently today?

CL: I think culture has pushed against traditional manhood, and cowboy values—grit, honor, resilience—are a way men are re-centering themselves. It's not just fashion; it’s what the style represents.

PC: Classic or contemporary western wear?

CL: Classic all the way. Western wear doesn’t shift like mainstream fashion. Cowboy clothing is designed for purpose, not trends. That’s what makes it timeless.

PC: Cowboy imagery carries a lot of weight. Are you conscious of that?

CL: Absolutely. I’m proud to be American. Our country has been a symbol of hope. We’re not perfect, but I stand by the values the cowboy embodies—and I believe they still matter.

PC: Are you trying to redefine the cowboy?

CL: Not at all. I’m trying to preserve him. I’ve got some land, a few horses, a few cattle. I’m not redefining—just reflecting and honoring.

PC: Any surprising reactions from your audience?

CL: Not necessarily surprising—sometimes undeserved, both the praise and the hate. I’ve learned to be kind and respectful, even to critics. But I also know when to listen and when to move on.

This Cowboy’s Personal Favorites

PC: Who influences your style the most?

CL: My dad, papa, great-grandpa, uncles—the men I respect. I don’t dress just like them, but I wear some of their clothes given to me and make it my own. That’s how I build my style.

PC: One item every man should own?

CL: I’m gonna have to go with cowboy boots on this one. You could argue and make a good case for a cowboy hat being the right answer, but I know a lot of good cowboys who wear a ball cap more often than a cowboy hat. However, very few wear sneakers more often than they wear boots. 

PC: Favorite look you’ve posted?

CL: There’s one in particular that stands out. I wore a hat I shaped myself and a ribbon hat band I cut and put on it. My shirt was a hand me down from my great grandpa Sonny, and it’s one of my all time faves. I wore a leather jacket that’s cut in a way that I think makes it styled perfect for western wear. I had on some USA made jeans and USA made boots. And a belt from a small leather maker that I bought from one of my favorite stores in the OKC Stockyards. And I always had on a silk bandana. I was standing with two of my horses in the video near my front porch. That was me.

PC: What are some of your favorite Western Wear brands?

CL: Wrangler for jeans, pearl snaps, and denim jackets. Kimes Ranch jeans are also great. Schaefer Outfitter makes a lot of great stuff. Ag Gear for great hot weather working shirts, and Olathe makes most of my favorite boots, but I’ve got a new pair of Hyer Boots I’m liking a lot too. Ely Cattleman makes my favorite pearl snaps. Cowboy hats, I don’t have a favorite maker really. Just whatever fits my head the best and can shape how I want it.  

Looking Ahead

PC: What’s next for What a Cowboy Wears?

CL: Well, a whole lot I hope! Brand partnerships, more storytelling, and continued growth. I have dreams that would fill a whole year of magazine issues. Lord willing, I’m just getting started.

PC: Do you want cowboy style to go mainstream?

CL: I want cowboy values to go mainstream. If that brings more boots and hats, great. It’s not about looking like a cowboy—it’s about living with honor, grit, and respect.

PC: Advice for someone wanting to wear cowboy style without “faking” it?

CL: You don’t have to be a cowboy to admire and aspire. Wear the boots and hat, sure—but carry the values too. Honor God, love your family, be kind, and work hard. That’s the real cowboy way.

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Follow Collin's story and style on Instagram and TikTok @whatacowboywears

You can find him on Youtube and Facebook at "What a Cowboy Wears"