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If you are off on a country weekend break or stepping out onto the field for a spot of game bird shooting, you will need to kit yourself out in suitable attire.
Gone are the days when country clothing was only worn by the more affluent amongst us. Although more time-honoured garments like breeches and wax jackets are reserved for traditional country pursuits, the growing popularity of fishing and equestrianism has made items such as jodhpurs and gilets more fashionable.
The beauty of country clothing is its durability and practicality. It can be worn for a casual day out or for a hike in the hills. Many manufacturers who specialise in country clothing pride themselves on exceptional quality which is both functional and adapts to any lifestyle.
Whether you are into fly fishing, hunting or walking, you can find clothing which is stylish yet practical.
There are numerous retailers online who concentrate on country clothing lines. A few high street retailers, including camping and outdoor sports stores also have specified ranges tailored for the more discerning country clothing enthusiast.
Country apparel can be lightweight, waterproof and breathable, like a tweed or waxed cotton jacket, or it can be rugged and chunky, like a lambswool knitted sweater.
For years, country clothing has been caught up in the traditions of the old fashioned country set. The stereotype has always been of a hunter wearing a flat cap, trap vest, checked shirt, plus fours and wellingtons.
This idea has been replaced by the more modern approach of wearing country clothing, with beautifully cut breeks, trousers or skirts, and short tweed jackets - all set off with the appropriate footwear. This clothing is all made with unsurpassed quality and craftsmanship.
Wearing country clothing outside the traditional sporting realm has also increased in popularity of late. Celebrities like Zara Phillips and Chris Eubank have taken the traditional attire of tweed coats, riding boots, and leggings and given them a more modern twist.
If you are looking to brave the elements, particularly the wind and rain, a classic, hard-wearing shooting jacket or leather jacket can be both comfortable and chic.
Team a tattersall shirt with corduroys or moleskin trousers, a flat cap, trilby or deer stalker, a pair of walking boots and a fleece, and you have the perfect outfit for a leisurely stroll or a day on the shooting range.
Layering garments like undershirts, gilets and fleeces will not only keep the cold at bay but will also leave you looking stylish and elegant.
One thing is for sure: outdoor clothing will suit any age, shape, size or pocket. From over trousers and waistcoats to superlight camouflage pants and colourful socks, there is something for everyone.
You will find that most country attire is made with exceptional, comfortable materials, such as 100% cotton, lambswool, baby alpaca wool, tweed and leather. These not only help keep you protected from the changeable weather, but are luxurious against the skin whilst allowing it to breathe.
So whether you opt for the traditional garb or choose more contemporary garments, country clothing can be beautiful, well-designed, smart, no-nonsense everyday wear, offering you more than just simple performance outerwear.
