What do you wear to a country weekend?
CHO Fashion & Lifestyle
If you live in the UK, there's nothing better than escaping to the country for a weekend break.
Whether heading to the rolling hills and coastal paths of Northumberland, hiking in the Lake District, or strolling Cornwall's spacious open beaches and trail paths, a weekend in the country is always a good idea!
However, with unpredictable UK weather conditions, deciding which country-style outfits to pack for your weekend away can sometimes be difficult. With this in mind, we've pulled together our top tips for countryside dressing so you can dress for whatever the weather throws at you without compromising style.
Table of contents:
What to pack for a weekend in the country
Accessories can transform an outfit
What to pack for a weekend in the country
When planning outfits for a weekend in the country, your main focus should be smart country clothing wardrobe staples. Choosing smart options will make for more streamlined packing whilst still offering multiple dressing options, so you can dress to impress whatever the occasion of your countryside stay. Here are some of our top tips for enviable countryside dressing:
Look good in layers
Strategic layering is key to any smart country clothing capsule. Ideal for the coldest weather and transitioning seasons, layering guarantees warmth whilst allowing you to dress in less should the sun decide to make a warm, welcome appearance.
A Tommy Hilfiger hoodie layered under a Barbour Lichen Women's Teddy Quilt Jacket guarantees you'll stay cosy during your countryside strolls. You can even layer over a lightweight Rains raincoat to keep those cosy layers dry if there's a chance of rain.
Layering isn't just for the daytime, either. Whether heading to a stately home or a classic countryside pub for your evening meal, layering your look can help keep you weather-appropriate until you reach your destination.
Pair your stylish evening wear with a warm parka coat and boots until you reach your destination, then leave your coat at the door and swap your boots for stylish sandals for your evening soiree. Penelope Chilvers is the perfect choice for all your stylish footwear needs and elevating your countryside style, both out and indoors.
Wear a waterproof
Whatever time of year you decide to head to the countryside, it's always worth being prepared for the rain. The UK saw 171.5 rain days in 2023, according to Statista, so dressing for the rain is always a safe and sensible option. Remember, there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!
Taking precautions on rainy days shouldn't mean that you should have to sacrifice style.
A Barbour wax jacket is the epitome of countryside style and is the perfect addition to your countryside capsule wardrobe. Expertly handcrafted and finished with exquisite detailing, the wax coating helps shelter you from the rain whether you're strolling around the nearest quaint town, hiking in the hills or heading out for a coffee.
Or, for even more stylish weatherproof options, why not browse Barbour International? With a rich history inspired by motorcycle dressing, a Barbour International jacket will help you stay dry, comfortable, and look good—whatever the weather throws at you!
Appropriate footwear
The footwear you choose for your country break will largely depend on the activities you plan to do when you get there. For example, hiking in the hills will require something much more technical than leisurely strolling through gardens in the English countryside.
Dubarry boots are ideal for countryside pursuits. Available for both men and women, their equestrian appeal makes them a stylish choice if you want to adopt countryside chic during your staycation.
Perfectly practical, these Dubarry boots are made from the finest, soft leather and are fully waterproof, giving optimal grip for those long countryside hikes along technical trails. Layer yours over waterproof trousers when braving the wettest weather or over leggings or jeans with matching boots and socks to elevate your countryside style.
Hunter Refined Chelsea Logo Slim Fit Women’s Boot
For even more practical options, don't overlook the style and comfort of a Hunter boot. Available in a range of lengths and colours for both men and women, your feet are guaranteed to stay dry and stylish with every step, whether your countryside trip involves attending a festival or you're heading for a countryside picnic.
Hunter boots pair perfectly with jeans, over chinos, dresses and jeans, so whatever your style, you'll find they're the perfect pairing and an essential countryside packing option!
Choose earthy tones
Packing for your countryside break doesn't need to be difficult. A good way to avoid overpacking is to stick to a neutral, earthy colour palette rather than thinking of and planning statement outfits. Choose simple hues that pair well together and provide multiple dressing options for numerous activities.
For example, if you're packing a neutral gilet to layer over a jumper paired with cargo pants and under a coat whilst exploring the countryside, could this be paired with jeans and a neutral shirt for an evening out for dual-purpose dressing?
Similarly, if your evening out involves curling up beside the fireplace in a classic countryside pub or restaurant, could that earthy green sweatshirt you've been wearing with your leggings be paired with chinos or jeans and boots for a smart-casual evening look?
Look to nature for inspiration in your colour pairings. Green, brown and beige work wonderfully in the natural world, so allow these stunning shades to feed into your countryside capsule wardrobe!
Accessories can transform an outfit
If you want to keep your outfits to a minimum but want to change your style, accessories can help transform your look!
A chunky scarf layered over a cosy knit can add style and warmth to an everyday look, especially when paired with a warm hat, such as a classic GANT Knit Beanie. Come evening time, swap out your warm accessories and smarten up your look with a designer belt and watch to carry the look from day to night.
Joules Ludlow Women’s Canvas Cross Body Bag
We've already mentioned swapping out hiking boots for stylish sandals. Still, another accessory that assists day-to-night dressing is to swap out your rucksack that's taken on the day's adventures for a chic shoulder bag to elevate your look.
Choose a natural hue if you want an option that will pair easily with all of your outfits and seamlessly fit your countryside capsule. Finish your look with statement chunky gold jewellery for a stylish finishing touch.
Dress for the countryside with CHO
So, now that you know how to put together the perfect countryside capsule, why not shop for your countryside break at CHO? With a range of exceptional brands perfect for the countryside, including Barbour, Joules, Barbour International, and Napapijri, explore our exceptional selection today and prepare for your most stylish staycation yet!
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