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Discover The Best In Premium Country Attire
When it comes to countryside pursuits, having the right attire is crucial for comfort, functionality, and style. Whether you’re working in the fields, attending a game fair, participating in country sports, or simply enjoying country life, the clothing you choose plays a significant role. So, let’s explore the key elements of men’s country attire and women’s country clothing, looking at the benefits of each type of clothing.
A Brief History Lesson…
Country attire has been a feature of the English countryside for centuries, traditionally among the upper classes. This is because the practical and durable clothing options were well suited to lengthy travel and enduring country pursuits held at stately homes. Tweed in particular has a long association with the British countryside and elite.
As with all things, country clothing has adapted and developed through the years. What was once a symbol of the countryside now features much more widely in different areas of society. Whether this is as a result of television shows such as Downton Abbey or celebrity influence, the current popularity of the style is undeniable. Now, leading brands such as Barbour, Schöffel and Dubarry all have country clothing at the core of their collections.
1. Country Jackets and Coats
A decent jacket or coat is the cornerstone of country attire, offering protection against cold and wet weather. Men’s waxed jackets are perhaps the most iconic choice, with a timeless style and a reliable lifespan that ensures it will be hanging in your hallway for years to come. The durable material is resistant to water as well as scrapes from foliage. As a result, they are perfect for hunting and other country pursuits. Traditionally, wax jackets would be a dark olive green or navy, with a brown corduroy collar for comfort. Barbour wax jackets are staples of the country wardrobe, with classic designs that have been favourites for decades.
Men’s quilted jackets are also traditional country attire, particularly the diamond quilt pattern, as they provide supreme insulation and warmth. Similarly, men’s fleece jackets are an absolute essential for those frosty mornings out in the fields.
2. Tweed Country Attire
The earthy tones of women’s tweed jackets blend seamlessly with country environments, making it the ideal choice for hunting. It’s also incredibly warm due to the thick natural fibres of wool. However, it is also used for smarter occasions, and is often seen at events such as Cheltenham Festival and county Game Fairs. Tweed suits have been an icon of English gentry since the 19th Century. The style combines tradition and heritage with practicality, resulting in a material that is perfect for country clothing.
For more information about this premium material, read our blog detailing different ways to style tweed for women.
3. Country Footwear
Your choice of footwear for life in the countryside is crucial, as it needs to protect your feet from poor weather while also supporting them across difficult terrains. Country boots should be waterproof and well insulated, with a tough thick sole for reliable grip. Premium materials like leather provide the best comfort, and will guarantee that your boots last for years. High quality wellington boots are also a common choice, particularly for farmers, as they protect your feet from the wettest of environments. Dubarry and Le Chameau have a long history of creating reliable footwear used for work and leisure in the countryside. Their leather boots and wellies are a clear choice when it comes to needing practical country footwear.
Alternatively, for country events that call for a focus on style rather than function, leather and suede boots for men and women will undoubtedly hit the brief. Smarter boots such as these will add elegance to your country attire, distinguishing your event look from your field look.
4. Headwear
For protection from both the sun and rain, country headwear is a must. If you’re looking to complete your outfit with a traditional accessory that celebrates English heritage, a tweed cap is the perfect choice for men. This sophisticated style has been part of country attire for centuries. Flat caps are still used in hunting and other country pursuits, as well as at county fairs and equestrian events. Alternatively, women and men may opt for a fedora or trilby hat. These dressier options have less of a place out in the field, but are staples of dress at events such as Cheltenham.
The definition of “country attire” is flexible, and depends which type of events you take part in and attend. As a result, there are many different options available to you, some of which overlap for multiple purposes. The heritage of this style of clothing is a long one, of which many elements still endure today. Country clothing is primarily centred around functionality, comfort, and weather protection, due to its original purpose and continued use in the field. However, it has developed into a genre that also celebrates the elegance of the English countryside and its long history associated with high society.
So, whether you’re working the fields, spending the day beating, or heading to the local game fair, our premium country clothing and footwear selection will have you covered for all occasions.
And for more country clothing inspiration, head over to our new Cheltenham Festival ladies style guide for 2024!
Don’t forget to tag us in all your country looks on Instagram!
@OutdoorAndCountry