British springtime - chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and unpredictable showers. It’s not uncommon for us to even see a little bit of snow! Our notoriously changeable spring weather presents a real challenge to our wardrobes.
Versatile layers and adaptable natural fabrics such as wool are the go-to style choices this season. At Harradine’s Country, we value British country style that will take you through four seasons in one day, so you can buy less, wear often, and be prepared for anything.
In our spring style guide, we’ll take you through our top spring country outfit ideas, featuring some of our British-made pieces and natural, traceable materials.
The Foundations of Spring Country Style
Before we jump straight to our spring country outfit ideas, here are the key considerations when assembling your spring country wardrobe. Keep these points in mind, and you’ll be ready for whatever the British springtime weather throws at you.
Lightweight Layers
Cold in the mornings, warm in the afternoons, and cold again in the evenings. Not to mention the sun, rain, hail and snow we might experience on a typical British spring day! By swapping the big cosy jumpers for lighter layers, you can adapt your outfit by the hour.
I recommend opting for lightweight, breathable natural materials, such as alpaca wool, light or medium-weight tweed, and cotton. These materials are generally more comfortable in changeable conditions than synthetics, because they are naturally more breathable and temperature-regulating. You can find out more about why we love wool here.
Layering Strategy
I’m not a huge fan of short sleeves, especially when there is a chance of a cold breeze. So, I usually opt for a long sleeved shirt or top under a lightweight jumper, followed by a tweed jacket or my Barbour wax jacket. If I’m heading out for a walk on the common or it’s a bit windy, I might opt for a quarter zip jumper, so I can keep my neck warm if needed.
Even if I’m convinced it really is as warm outside as it looks, I’ll always bring one extra layer to leave in the car. Along with an umbrella, of course.
Transitional Accessories
A new season doesn’t have to mean a whole new wardrobe. Switching up your accessories can elevate your existing wardrobe so it’s ready for spring country styling, saving you money and space.
My top recommendation for a spring accessory that’s perfect for the countryside is the skinny handmade leather belt by Filly & Fox. Made in the UK with farm-traced English bridle leather and solid brass hardware, these belts are the epitome of sustainable style. The six earthy, classic shades - including black, tan, and red - will pair beautifully with blue denim, spring pastels, and heritage greens. Not only are these belts beautiful and sustainable - the quality and craftsmanship really helps to lift an outfit, giving it a sophisticated, put-together look.
Spring Country Outfit Ideas
Look One: Spring Show Weekend
If you’re heading off to your local country show or horse trials, you’ll want an outfit that is practical and comfortable, as well as stylish. You’ll likely do a lot of walking, and being out in the elements calls for an outfit that can cope with all weathers.
Alpaca wool socks & boots: Even as the weather warms up, the ground can still be wet and muddy. Alpaca wool socks under a practical pair of boots is the perfect combination if you want comfort and style, without getting sweaty feet! Short boots work nicely with jeans, or you could pair your favourite long boots with a tweed skirt and feather boot tassels.
Tweed jacket: Much lighter than your big winter coat, a tweed jacket is perfect for keeping the spring chill out. Opt for a lightweight tweed jacket so you can layer it with a jumper. The Heyford tweed jacket by English Nettle goes really well with a check shirt - perfect for a day at the showground.
Look Two: Spring Countryside Walks
Whether you’re out with the dog or taking a lunchtime stroll, a springtime walk in the countryside is really uplifting. If the weather is looking a bit iffy, I’ll always bring my waxed jacket. However, I tend to avoid lots of thick layers, as you can start to cook a bit on a nice day.
I find the Heyford green tweed jacket by English Nettle works nicely over a lightweight jumper, and I especially love it paired with a turtleneck. It provides a little bit of extra warmth, particularly on those breezy spring days when there's a chill in the air.
Here, I've paired my dark blue jeans with the skinny handmade leather belt in conker by Filly & Fox.
Look Three: Warm Days and Smart Spring Occasions
When we do get a beautiful warm day, it's nice to reach for a more summery dress. I always like to pair mine with a linen jacket, and the shackle leather equestrian belt by Filly & Fox just finishes the outfit. This combination is perfect for a day at the races, particularly as the flat season gets underway.
