Country clothing typically describes the attire worn by men and women for country pursuits in the UK. Pastimes such as fishing, shooting and horse riding are well accommodated by country clothing, but this look has also become fashionable for those taking part in general outdoor activities including gardening, rambling and picnics.
If you want to rock the country clothing look this spring, here are a few tips to follow and some popular clothing items to add to your wardrobe.
Fit for purpose
The main aim of country attire is to provide warm, comfortable and flexible clothing that can be worn for traditional British outdoor sports and pastimes such as shooting, rambling and equestrian activities. Therefore, if you want to look the part when participating in such pursuits you will also need to choose clothes that will give you the manoeuvrability you need, as well as weatherproof attributes and pockets in the right places for all the accessories you need to keep to hand.
Topped by tweed
Tweed has long been a favourite material for outdoor clothing due to its moisture resistance, warmth and durability. This woolen twill cloth originated in Scotland and became popular with English aristocrats who owned estates there in the early 1800s. Through the Victorian era, tweed became increasingly popular for country sports wear and its use expanded as it was used to create business wear and lounge attire, making it a fashionable choice outside the countryside.
Nowadays tweed still epitomises that country look, but country clothing is so much more than just tweed jackets on day’s shoot. That said, if you love that traditional look, then you can’t go far wrong with the Schoffel Ptarmigan Tweed Coat – available in both men’s and women’s styles.
This luxurious soft lambswool coat is waterproof, windproof and features elasticated storm cuffs. It’s the perfect coat for cool spring mornings and evenings and of course, will look great when the shooting season gets up and running again.
Gilets – the great all rounder
Traditionally, tailored jackets would not be worn by women indoors, so cardigans, jumpers and gilets provide the perfect alternative to a country clothing outfit, layering up to bring much needed warmth and comfort. Great outdoors and in, gilets can be worn under a coat in the winter or on their own on warmer spring days. They also give you a chance to show off your shirt sleeves to complete the country clothing look.
Schoffel’s Men’s Oakham Fleece Gilet or Women’s Lyndon Fleece Gilet are ideal choices and come in a range of country colours including navy, mocha, fern and gunmetal.
It’s what’s underneath that counts
When dressing for country pursuits, or trying to get that country clothing look for leisure purposes, it’s definitely what’s underneath that counts. After you have taken off that tweed jacket or fleece gilet, all eyes will be on your outfit. For a casual country ensemble, try a timeless gingham or check shirt paired with chinos. This is an outfit that works equally well for men and women.
Accessories to complete the country clothing look
Sometimes, all you need are the right accessories to achieve a certain look. To complete a country clothing outfit this spring, try some of the following accessories:
- Tweed caps – either in the traditional style for men, or baker boy styles for women, these caps are perfect for a shoot or a day in the countryside.
- Belts – either go with classic leather for a more formal look, or brighten up your outfit with a colourful polo belt or woven belt from Billybelt’s range.
- Socks – whatever your reason for dressing for the countryside, you’ll need a decent pair of socks. From woollen shooting socks to keep your toes warm on those misty shoots to colourful ankle socks to pair with your favourite chinos, pick your socks wisely to make sure you have the comfort, warmth and style you need.
Where to find country clothing
Roxtons is a retailer of clothing for both men and women offering a range of country, shooting and polo clothing plus lifestyle accessories and gifts. For help putting together the perfect country clothing outfit you can browse their website roxtons.co.uk.