Art & Brand: A Conversation with Kirah Perle
Meet Kirah:
Kirah Perle is the creative director of Perle Studios. As someone who understands the balance between function and beauty, she has a deep appreciation for the art of living. Not only does she run a design studio, but she also is the founder of 1991 Boots, where she has carved out a niche in the world of cowboy boots, creating pieces that blend timeless Western tradition with a modern, feminine edge
Perle Studios - Instagram
Based in Parker, Colorado, Kirah’s journey into design started in an unexpected place: her family’s lingerie brand. From there, she explored graphic design before ultimately finding her creative home in bootmaking, driven by a desire to create something that didn’t yet exist—fashion-forward, functional cowboy boots for women. She blends romance and nostalgia for the West with a modern, pared-back sensibility—classic, intentional, never disposable. Less, but better. 1991 is more than just a brand, it’s a reflection of Kirah’s personal ethos of quality, intention, and artistry.
1991 Boots - Instagram
I sat down with Kirah to explore what it takes to build a brand with both depth and aesthetics—designing for longevity, not trends. For her, branding isn’t just business; it’s a way of life. One thoughtfully crafted boot at a time, she’s shaping the future of Western-style for women. Her boots are effortlessly cool, and at the end of the interview, you’ll find my exclusive code to snag a pair for yourself.
Interview:
Let's start at the beginning.What's your background in design?
"I am a fashion school dropout. And became a ski bum instead," Kirah says, laughing. "In fashion school, I took a Photoshop course because we were learning how to make mood boards. And then I just became super obsessed with it and started using it all the time. I just taught myself how to do everything."
Design work from Perle Studio’s Portfolio
Like many creatives, Kirah’s path wasn’t linear.
She didn’t follow the traditional route of fashion school to fashion house. Instead, she carved her own way, finding an unexpected love for design through digital tools. What started as a simple Photoshop class turned into something bigger—a self-taught obsession that ultimately led her to branding, graphic design, and eventually bootmaking. That DIY approach, the willingness to learn as she goes, still define how she runs 1991 Boots today. There’s a rawness to her process, a refusal to overcomplicate things. If she doesn’t know how to do something, she figures it out.
Did you always know you wanted to be in fashion?
"Oh my gosh, yes! Since I was a little girl, I always wanted to be in fashion. I was constantly designing clothes and dresses. Back in the day, I was obsessed with Alexander McQueen, it was my dream to work for him. When he passed away, it felt like that dream was shattered. But life had other (“better”) plans.
Kirah’s Mood Board for 1991
In high school, I was actually training to be a professional snowboarder. My world revolved around our lingerie business, school, and snowboarding. At one point, I really wanted to launch a women’s snowboarding line because the designs were seriously lacking. Everything felt uninspired, and I wanted to create something better."
How did you transition from graphic design to launching a design agency?
"I was working full-time as a graphic designer for a skincare brand in Colorado—your typical 9-to-5. I really tried to make that lifestyle work, but it just wasn’t for me.”
At a turning point, she decided to take a solo trip to Paris—something she had always dreamed of. Immersed in the city’s beauty, inspiration struck, and Perle Studios was born. The brand’s visual identity pulls from that trip, heavily influenced by vintage Parisian aesthetics, classic fonts, and the kind of effortless elegance that defines French design.
And what drew you to the Western world? It seems like quite a leap from Paris-inspired design.
"I've always loved horses—I grew up riding—but I never really vibed with the traditional equestrian world," Kirah says with a mischievous grin. "I’m just too much of a free spirit. Every time I rode, I wanted to trail ride, to be out in the open, riding Western, not worrying about being so proper."
Now, she has a close friend, Blue, a classic cowboy who leads trail rides around Denver. Those rides have become more than just a pastime; they’re a creative reset. Being out on the trails surrounded by the raw beauty of the West gives her the same kind of inspiration she once found in Paris.
—
( I wanted to add this to the interview because I think it’s an important aspect of my career and of how I got into the western world. )
Before Covid I started working at the infamous rockmount ranchwear headquarters in Denver, Colorado as their marketing manager. that is truly where I fell in love with western fashion and culture. The creator of rockmount ranchwear, papa jack’s story was so inspiring to me, he was the original inventor of the western snap shirt. His legacy really inspired me and being at the headquarters you could feel the power of the western legacy that he created.
I was able to experience all of the vintage rockmount ranchwear clothing, there was a floor on the warehouse filled with vintage snap shirts, cowboy boots, western denim and all of their vintage magazine editorials. On my lunch breaks I would go explore that floor of the building and just admire all of the western history and the beautiful embroidered western shirts. Papa Jack’s legacy really inspired me and being at the headquarters you could feel the power of the western legacy that he created.
Kirah’s Barn & Work Studio in Colorado
Tell me about the creative process behind 1991. How did it all come together?
It started with a simple realization that there weren’t any cowboy boots on the market that felt both stylish and functional. "I was looking at a pair of cheap cowgirl boots I had bought from Nasty Gal, and I needed something to actually ride in for my birthday," Kirah recalls. "I went to Boot Barn, and all the women’s boots were either ugly, overly traditional, or just not fashionable. That’s when it hit me—what if I just made my own?"
As someone who’s constantly coming up with brand ideas, she didn’t jump in immediately. "I told myself to sit on it, to let the idea settle," she says. "And I believe in signs, whether from God, the universe, whatever you want to call it, and one day I got the clearest one. That’s when I knew it was time."
The making of 1991 Boots
She spent the next year immersed in sketching, refining, and shaping what would eventually become 1991 Boots. "I drew hundreds of boots at my family friend's ranch in New Mexico, working out of this tiny art studio owned by an incredible woman in her 80s. That’s where it all really started." To get the shape right, she studied everything from vintage cowboy boots to high fashion runways, pulling inspiration from Yves Saint Laurent and Parisian design. "I wanted something more refined, something that felt feminine but still had that Western soul. The kind of boot that felt just as at home on a trail ride as it did with a beautiful dress."
How did you approach defining 1991’s aesthetic?
"The first campaign for 1991 was one of the most meaningful moments of my life," Kirah says, her voice carrying the weight of it. That first shoot was deeply inspired by ‘90s editorials—oversized blazers, dad hats, an effortless, understated cool. "When I was launching, so much of western wear felt overdone—glitzy, theatrical, almost costume-like. I wanted something different. Something classic, refined, and modern. A western brand that spoke to people like me—people who love the culture but don’t necessarily see themselves in rhinestones and stonewashed jeans.
It was about carving out space for a new kind of Western aesthetic—one that felt natural, timeless, and elevated.”
Your daily routine seems so intentional. How do you stay creative?
"Every morning I wake up, take my dogs out and feed my chickens to get sunlight, then I drink my iced chai latte. Sometimes I start my morning by designing immediately, sometimes I need to intake some inspiration or give myself a creative break by reading. I think creativity varies for everyone, but for me, consistency is key to unlocking infinite creative potential. The more you create and design, the better you are at it, the more ideas flow fluidly."
"There's this quote I have framed in my bedroom that I live by…
"“I think everything in life is art. What you do. How you dress. The way you love someone, and how you talk. Your smile and your personality. What you believe in, and all your dreams. The way you drink your drinks. How you decorate your home or party. The way you write your grocery list. The food you make. How your handwriting looks. And the way you feel.'"
– Helena Bonham Carter.
And finally, what's your vision for the future of 1991 Boots?
She sees it evolving beyond boots. "I love designing them, but it’s a tough business. I’ve always imagined 1991 as more than just footwear—as a full lifestyle brand. I want to expand into clothing and create sustainable, Made in America pieces that carry the same timeless ethos." She pauses, then adds with a knowing smile, "For now, I’m just a small business owner and designer with big dreams—but I intend to make them happen."
Rapid Fire Questions with Kirah:
Q: One item in your workspace that you couldn’t live without?
A: This one is easy and boring – my computer, and definitely my iced chai latte.
Q: If your work had a soundtrack, what songs would be on it?
A: Lately, every Zach Top song, Colter Wall, Dave Stamey, George Straight & I’m a huge Billie Marten fan!
Q: Top 5 things you use in your daily personal life that you recommend to others
I love my goat milk. I absolutely love it in my chai tea and drink it every day.
I think every creative should own the Rick Rubin book, “The Creative Act”. It’s one of the best books written on creativity!
I believe everyone should own an animal, whether it's a dog, cat, horse chickens, or even a rabbit. They really help you feel unconditional love, get you outside everyday and help you connect to the current moment in a deeper fulfilling way.
Substack!!! As a lover of blogs, reading, Pinterest, Tumblr, it’s all my favorite things combined into one. And subscribe to mine: Country Living
Honestly, my 1991 phone case has been a lifesaver. I’ve dropped it more times than I can count—even on a horse—and my screen has never cracked. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it’s Cute too!
Q: Favorite location to focus and get energized?
A: I have my own little studio at my barn here in Colorado and having that designated space to work is vital for me.
Q: What's one piece of business advice you'd give to other creatives?
A: Contracts are everything when it comes to protecting your business and your work. Whether you’re a freelance artist or bringing someone into your brand, always have it in writing, NDAs, agreements, all of it. Do not cut corners on contracts.
Q: What’s in your cart for spring right now?
1991 - Fleur de Lis in camel Suede, of course! (use code ART&BRAND when shopping)
1991 - Brown Gingham phone case (use code ART&BRAND when shopping)
Stetson - Shasta 10x Premiere Cowboy Hat
Doen - Henri Top in salt
Sea New York - Vesna Blouse
Levi’s - 501 Women’s 90s in Shoutout Stone Wash
Ralph Lauren - Western Belt
Malene Birger - Zoena Leather Jacket
Doen - Ischia Dress in salt
This one dress has lived rent-free in my mind ever since I saw it on Jessie Andrews. After a deep dive, it seems nonexistent—but this RABANNE lace-trimmed maxi comes close.
Shop the Kirah’s favorites:
Thank you, Kirah, for sharing your story, your vision, and the heart behind 1991. Your approach to design, creativity, and forging your own path is nothing short of inspiring and I am thankful we got to hear about your journey.
IT was a pleasure to speak with JODY WATKINS! FOLLOW HER: @jodywat
