The Essence of a British Country Summer
Waking up to the sound of chirping birds, setting off on a dappled woodland ride, heading down to the village fête, or taking a long evening stroll with a furry friend—however you choose to spend your day, summer in the British countryside is a place you can’t help but fall in love with.
But with nature’s charm also comes its quirks: cool dawns, blazing midday heat, and, as we Brits well know, the occasional sudden downpour! That’s why our wardrobe needs to be as adaptable as our plans, and here at Hollands Country Clothing, we’re here to help you navigate the season in style, with practical, comfortable summer staples, new arrivals, and your favourite brands, all brought together in this handy guide.
Staples & Styling Tips: A British Country Summer Look
Life in the countryside is shaped by the seasons. A well-prepared summer wardrobe consists of waterproof top layers, lightweight garments, and versatile accessories, which, of course, should be as stylish as they are practical!
From trends to tradition, we’ve brought together a selection of certified staples to make sure your country wardrobe is summer-ready, come rain or shine.
1. A light Jacket - Just in Case
Ever the optimists, we hope for a summer of sunshine. However, we know the forecast isn’t always so bright. For summer in the country and unpredictable showers, think lightweight waterproof jackets on standby.
Waterproof, breathable, and windproof, the Lighthouse Ladies Lucy Jacket is ideal for keeping you looking stylish and dry during summer showers. Designed for those who prefer a shorter fit, it looks right at home with rolled jeans, shorts, and even bright festival hunter wellies!
If you’re looking for a lightweight, packable option, the Helly Hansen Loke 2.0 Jacket has you covered.
Available in a range of colours for both men and women and with HELLY TECH® Performance technology, when it comes to high-performance, packable waterproof coats, the Loke Jacket is a hard-to-beat hidden weapon against unpredictable weather!
2. Shirts are a Staple
It wouldn’t be a country clothing guide without a trusty shirt! Breathable and comfortable, they’re timeless and traditional, yet can add a modern twist when styled up, or for the day-to-day.
This summer is certainly in bloom, cottage core aesthetic is in, and florals and patterns are back. For a refined take on a ladies’ country classic, the Hoggs of Fife Thistle Print Shirt is as comfortable as it is beautiful, and the Dubarry Fuchsia Printed Long Sleeve Shirt, with its cheery floral pattern, makes for the perfect match with cotton trousers or lightweight shorts.
For a summer take on a menswear fan favourite, consider the Hoggs of Fife Callum Short Sleeve Tattersall Shirt. Built on the success of its long-sleeve counterpart, a short-sleeve alternative for the summer months is hard to beat. It’s easy to pair with everything from jeans to moleskins, or why not try matching your favourite short-sleeved shirt with light jeans and a pair of new Durango boots for a western look that’s right on trend!
3. An Everday Gilet
Much like a shirt, a country clothing guide wouldn't be complete without a gilet, either. A countryside crowd-pleaser, a gilet is the ultimate addition to any rural wardrobe and a smart layer in the summer for early mornings and cooler evenings.
Hard-wearing for the morning jobs, quick-drying and wind-resistant for those blustery summer days, and stylish from the farm to the country fair, a Ridgeline Monarch Gilet is a great all-rounder if you’re looking for a balance of comfort, functionality, and traditional country aesthetic this summer.
Worn over a check shirt and paired with Blundstone boots for a classic look, or loafers and shorts for a summer lunch with friends, the Monarch Gilet is as versatile as it is practical and sure has its place as a summer staple in the country wardrobe.
4. Summer Shorts
While trousers like chinos and moleskins are a year-round go-to, summer calls for something lighter on those extra hot days. Ideal for a day in the yard or country pub gardens, a good pair of shorts will be your summer clothing sidekick- and maybe even get your legs a good tan!
To mix and match for cool comfort and easy wear, options like Ridgeline’s Backslider and Hose Down ranges are spot on. Based on traditional rugby shorts with extra Ridgeline ruggedness, these ranges are interchangeable and effortlessly practical; a top summer pick for hotter weather, both for the graft and when kicking back.
If you’re looking for something smarter, why not try the popular Musto Evo Deck Stretch shorts? Add a polo shirt for a polished look, or a warmer hoodie or jacket for a cooler day.
5. Stylish Shoes
Rural life always has a place for boots, but to save sweltering in the sun this summer, a pair of lightweight Loafers or Deck Shoes is the perfect addition to your collection.
As stylish summer shoes that strike the perfect balance between smart and casual, brands like Orca Bay, Chatham, and Dubarry have perfected the art of quality country deck shoes and loafers.
Classic colours like tan and navy are versatile summer staples, paired with light layers, a woven belt, sunglasses, or a fedora hat for effortless summer style. A summer footwear frontrunner, a good deck shoe or loafer is practical enough for a countryside stroll but refined enough for a garden party or day at the show.
6. Hats for the Heat
Hats are essential in any summer wardrobe, not only for style but also for protection, particularly when spending time in the glorious countryside sun.
Explorers and outdoor lovers, a Tilley hat is this year’s go-to for those who need reliable protection with style. Keep a neutral tone to match any outfit or add a splash of colour with the new T1 performance bucket hat, perfect for a statement look or festival feel.
If you prefer a good cap style, you may just become a sucker for a Stetson Cap this summer. Keeping up the Western theme, Stetson are big in the business of Trucker caps. Paired with an Ariat Men’s Retro Fit shirt, you’re sure to be turned out and on trend, from the farm down to the fair- (or should we say, the ranch to the rodeo!)
Moments in the Countryside: A Lifestyle Beyond the Wardrobe
Rural life is more than just a way of life—it’s a lifestyle rooted in tradition and shaped by the seasons. The right clothing is key to a summer in the countryside, keeping you cool, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.
Embrace the essence of a British country summer with the full range of staples and new arrivals on our website - so when the British weather has different ideas, you have a waterproof jacket on standby or a sun hat ready for whatever the day brings!
About the Author
Sarah Holland
With her extensive firsthand experience of farm life and a keen eye for quality, Sarah Holland's advice on women's country clothing reflects her genuine appreciation for the joys and comfort of rural living. Whether it's a smart tweed jacket for a formal occasion or durable wellies for muddy walks, she knows what works for life in the countryside. Sarah loves sharing her knowledge and insights to help others discover the perfect attire for their outdoor lifestyle.
