The Urban Embrace of Countryside Style
Every ten years or so, the fashion world, with its characteristically low self-awareness, rediscovers the charm of the countryside. It's a cyclical trend where city dwellers enthusiastically adopt rural aesthetics, marvelling at trees and cosy pubs as if they were groundbreaking discoveries. This season, the trend is in full swing, marked by the dominance of Fair Isle jumpers, barn jackets, and sturdy hiking boots.
This style of dressing, which mimics a cosy mini-break, has become the autumnal equivalent of summer's festival wear. It's a version of countryside living conceived by those whose forays out of the city rarely exceed 48 hours. As journalist Jess Cartner-Morley, a self-professed urban creature, points out, this can feel perilously close to cultural appropriation. Yet, the allure is undeniable.
Why Country-Coded Clothing Resonates Now
The gravitational pull towards this aesthetic is rooted in a longing for wholesomeness and a slower pace of life. In an era dominated by digital saturation and an uncertain future, clothes that symbolise a connection to nature feel grounding. Wearing a Fair Isle jumper evokes crunchy leaves, a barn jacket carries a hint of woodsmoke, and hiking boots suggest a vigorous walk. This aligns with the Gen Z concept of 'touching grass' – a phrase for disconnecting from the online world and reconnecting with nature.
This country-coded wardrobe has effectively filled the space once occupied by pandemic-era tracksuits. While sweatpants and a hoodie now feel clichéd and overly associated with travel, the country look offers a fresh, functional alternative. Beyond the symbolism, these clothes are damn functional. Barn jackets feature excellent pockets and soft collars, cord trousers provide warmth in damp air, and chunky jumpers are easy to layer. The entire ensemble projects a reassuring rigour, making you look like someone with practical, useful skills.
How to Wear the Look Without the Clichés
The key to mastering this trend is to avoid tipping into caricature. The goal is not to look like an extra from a Guy Ritchie film. Avoid overly literal interpretations like head-to-toe tweed, flat caps, branded wellies, or excessively shiny waxed jackets. Since you're likely not on a shooting weekend, a strict palette of brown and green is a hard no.
Instead, incorporate autumnal reds and oranges, with pops of camel and cream. The most crucial tip is to include one item that doesn't perfectly track with the theme. Pair a flannel shirt with barrel-leg jeans instead of corduroys, or wear your cords with a simple sweatshirt. This prevents the outfit from looking like a pre-packaged costume bought off the rack.
Fashion is always part play-acting. This autumn, it's about looking outdoorsy, whether you're heading to a national park or just commuting on the tube. You can embrace the aesthetic and the sense of comfort it provides, all while staying aware that it's essentially a stylish performance.
