A Country Winter
The Capsule Wardrobe Planner - My Top Ten Performers
It's that time of year again and winter’s just around the corner, but it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. In fact, it’s a great time to get out into nature, breathe the crisp, fresh air, and get your energy levels up while embracing the nurturing aspects of the season.
Walking the lanes as the afternoon light fades, and the crescent of a waxing moon emerges in the sky, you can smell the woodsmoke on the sharp breeze. It's time to get cosy at home! Think beautifully soft cashmere layers, cosy socks, a crackling fire and not least, a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream! But that’s not all.
As we approach Christmas, our streets are shrouded in warmth; from the glow of pretty fairy lights, to the smell of cinnamon floating on the breeze, as we browse the lively Christmas markets, sip hot chocolate and toast marshmallows. Go on, grab a hotdog with lashings of mustard!
Then, there’s the crackling log fires in cosy country pubs, a gathering around the hearth, while watching the gentle snowflakes outside the window, drifting and catching under the dim glow of a Victorian streetlamp as they fall.
It is indeed time to wrap up warm so we can best embrace all the beauty the season has to offer. So, without further ado, here are the top ten performers I’ll cherish this winter for time spent outdoors. What are yours?
#1 - A Mega Scarf
Everyone needs a super soft ‘mega’ scarf. The one I’ve chosen here is from Hicks & Brown. It’s neutral based, so will probably be very versatile in your wardrobe. You could also go for something very statement – an investment piece, such as the appropriately named Burberry Mega check scarf.
#2 – Statement Trench
For those days when you want to feel more elevated, you can’t really go wrong with the statement trench. The suede Grace Trench by Fairfax & Favor is perfect, will see you through many winters, and its lovely Toscana shearling trim will give you that element of luxuary while locking in warmth. In terms of trench coats, there are lots of lovely items on offer from various brands, so it’s very easy to find something that suits your individual style and lifestyle requirements.
#3 – Gilets
Admittedly, I have a weakness for gilets, and they come in all different designs and materials. At the moment, I’m loving this country fleece style by Holland Cooper – perfect for layering under a field coat or blazer. It has a striking look with its faux leather trim, creates a super layering effect, and it’s super thick and warm, without being especially bulky. For those milder days, I like to utilize it as outerwear and team it with a cashmere cardigan, shirt and silk scarf.
#4 – Cashmere Layering Knit
I find it very hard to live without these, I really do! I would say they are part of my ‘uniform’. They are so versatile cross season, and you can get anything from layering jumpers, cardigans or short sleeve tees. I’ve chosen a piece here from the White Company, who tend to be one of my favourites for knits and neutrals.
#5 – Down Style Longline Coat
Duvet style coats are always useful, especially long line. Take this lovely one by Fairfax & Favor. If you’re planning on heading out when temperatures really are subzero, then this is definitely a piece to consider.
#6 – Field Coat
I’ve had my Dubarry Marlfield tweed for over 10 years. It’s a classic shooting coat. Again, there are many on the market, so it should be easy to find one that is to your taste. This one has proved timeless and continues to show no signs of wear! Whenever I wear it, I get compliments. It’s Goretex, so it’s waterproof, but it’s also very well-tailored and is super warm. A similar / equivalent choice today might be the Balmoral Field Coat by Holland Cooper. I also love my Rohan parka style outpost jacket. The colour is a lovely Khaki, its highly insulated, and it’s totally waterproof. It’s very country inspired and looks great with a pair of Le Chameau wellingtons.
#7 – Gloves
Stylish gloves give you a good opportunity to really pull together your winter outfit, as well as keeping your hands toasty warm. I like my sheepskin mittens from Celtic & Co – the lovely chocolate colour goes with many of my items and the Toscana lining is the warmest. The leather, wool and cashmere lined gloves from Fairfax and Favor will also be a favourite this season and they come in various colours.
#8 – Tailored Wool trousers
You cannot go wrong with a good tailored wool trouser. Of course, they are warm, especially if lined, and very easy to wear on those days when the cold really does edge through. They work well with simple shirts and a waistcoat, gilet or a chunkier wool knit.
#9 – Practical boots
I love shearling lined boots for winter chills, and I’ve had many variations in the past. I’ve had the Fairfax and Favor Reginas for a couple of years now. They are a beautiful chocolate nubuck are super cosy and also very robust. Another option is to go for a lined ankle boot and the shearling lined Boudica boot by Fairfax and Favor is another option to keep your feet toasty warm and pack in some country miles, whether your pounding the pavements or are following gentle woodland trails around stately homes.
#10 – Super stylish long boots
When you need to be just that little bit smarter, these Fairfax and Favor heeled mahogany leather Reginas tick all the boxes. They are super stylish and will work well with skinny jeans to elevate a more casual look, or will team with smarter peg style trousers or skirts.
Follow me on Instagram for more country fashion and wellbeing inspiration: @country_and_hygge
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