Living in the city with its hectic schedules, early morning briefings and train delays, the concept of an idyllic life can feel a million miles away. However, with the emergence of the country-chic trend, you can discover a new way to embrace serenity, dressing as though you’re enjoying a long weekend retreat in the Shires. 

There’s a sense of wholesomeness attached to the country chic style. It conjures up images of farm life, cosy pubs, thatched roof cottages and rolling green fields. Quintessentially British, if you like. 

Think plaid, check and shearling. Kilts, wellies and puffy padded coats. All things soft and comfy. Perfect for autumnal walks and quiet evenings in, this trend is refined while still being incredibly cosy.

Designers are infusing traditional patterns with contemporary cuts and luxurious fabrics. Take your dressing cues from the autumn/winter 2024 collections at Burberry, Fendi, Anna Sui, Chloé and Tommy Hilfiger.

At Chopova Lowena and Dior, kilts were the new minis, which means skirts buckled at the waist are set for greatness. Even Claudia Winkleman wore a kilt for the Highlands on The Traitors, showing that heritage fashion is well and truly back on the scene. Paired with a shearling-collared padded coat, thick tights and a cable knit jumper, it’s a far chicer version of the one you may have worn to school and far more suited to becoming your grown-up uniform.

To perfect the look, mix different textures – soft wool, tweed, heavy-duty leather – to create a style that is tactile and sumptuous. Opt for warm, earthy tones such as crimson red, forest green and mustard yellow. These shades are deep in hue, meaning they can be paired with all your casuals, including dark-denim jeans, or layered under a cashmere jumper for added warmth when the weather gets nippy. 

As much as we love the thrill of discovering new trends, cuts, and colours, there is something reassuring when designers revisit heritage pieces. Or better yet, items that have long been lurking in the back of our wardrobes.

Perhaps you still own a lumberjack shirt from your teenage grunge years or some neglected old tartan-style kilt skirts from your school days. If so, get them out, give them a wash, an iron and then some love.

Whether you’re heading out for a brisk walk in the park or settling in for a chilled night at home, the country chic trend has you covered. So, wrap up in chunky separates and heritage-inspired accessories to fully embrace the trend, and keep scrolling to see our top buys for the season.

Stylist’s edit of the best country chic looks for autumn/winter

Images: Getty; BBC; courtesy of brands