LifecanbetoffYou’re off to the Cotswolds for a festive break and whilst it sounds idyllic you have no idea what to pack! What are the countryside essentials?
I’ve lived in the country for a while now, but wouldn’t consider myself a proper country fashion icon, but I have had elements sneaking in slowly as mentioned in my post for the Rydale Hemsley tweed coat (AD:gifted review).
There are a few key items I have and can’t live without as well as a few I’d like but perhaps don’t have the confidence to wear.
I’m definitely more of an eclectic fashionista, I have my own style – mostly slogan jumpers or bright colours. And, I live in jeans!
There are a few items considered to be countryside essentials, go to Cheltenham races or a Cotswold Christmas fair, you will definitely see a pattern emerging!
These are my absolute must haves for visits to the countryside – be it for a weekend getaway or a day trip.
Countryside Essentials
A good pair of boots/wellingtons
When visiting the countryside there is one thing you will definitely need without fail and that is a good pair of waterproof boots.
I generally live in my Hunter wellies (adjustable sides for my wider calves!) but had for years longed for a pair of “country boots”.
You know the style, the dark brown leather waterproof boots
I recently treated myself to this pair of Orca Bay Orkney boots from Ardmoor.
Even though I’ve only worn them briefly to pick out my Christmas tree, they are so comfortable and warm – and best of all, waterproof and super stylish!
I was drawn to Orca Bay as a local Wiltshire based company, they also produce a lovely range of loafers and driving shoes.
I’m looking forward to many a country walk in them!
Winter Coat
I’ve already mentioned my tweed coat which is amazing in the really cold weather. However, sometimes you need a really good waterproof coat too.
In my opinion, it’s hard to beat a good wax Barbour jacket – something else I have repeatedly put on my Christmas wish list – even though one Christmas I did get a beautiful Barbour International padded jacket.
One can never have too many Barbour’s!
As for waxed jackets, the Barbour Beadnell would be my choice.
Take a hat!
I just don’t have the confidence to wear a hat, other than a woolly pompom hat!
However, I believe it’s no country trip unless you have a lovely fedora to keep you stylish and to keep your tresses tidy!
In support of smaller brands, I love these from High Bird Designs. With a wide range of colours and a beautiful range of handmade accessories available too, you can really dress your fedora up.
Maybe I’ll pluck up the courage to buy a fedora one day! Or maybe like me, if you’re not a hat person you’d prefer a headwarmer?
Annabel Brocks is well known for her beautiful range of reversible headwarmers in a range of colours.
Layer up!
You can never guess what the weather is going to be like, will it be dry, will it be wet, will it be freezing cold.
You could potentially be going from the freezing cold to cosy pubs so it will be important to layer up!
I’ve already told you I’m a fan of a brightly coloured or slogan jumper, and no more so than the gorgeous cashmere jumpers from Cove knitwear (yes, I have one or two of these!)
And wouldn’t that look just perfect with one of the amazing NATTILY gilets?
Call it a Night!
Nightwear – if you’re going on country break, expect evenings in your jammies in front of the fire.
And you can’t wear any old jammies!
If it is tradition in your household to have new PJ’s for Christmas, perhaps you’re already covered. But you can’t come to the Cotswolds in your holey old jammies.
The White Company has a wonderful range of quality pyjamas that are perfect for relaxing weekends in the country.
Break out the tweed and the cords
No, not the worn out sun faded tweed and mustard yellow cords (although mustard is in…) I’m talking about a tweed blazer and a pair of skinny cords.
This green British Tweed blazer from Boden is an absolute stunner and pairs beautifully with a pair of jeans or cords and a jumper/tee. With a range of colours available, it will suit all tastes and styles. It’s no longer available to buy but similar styles are.
There you have it! You’re all set for your break to the Cotswolds! Although I must admit this looks a lot like my Christmas wishlist!
Peace out!
Jangles x
