Hunting breeches might be one of the more practical pieces in your country wardrobe, but that doesn’t mean they demand any less attention

Jun 7, 2017 | Uncategorized

WEAR YOUR BREECHES OFF DUTY TOO

These breeches served me well during the winter months, because the structured yet roomy cut meant I could pile layers underneath. But strip those layers away and you’ve got yourself a great lightweight trouser for a variety of spring summer country jaunts from horse riding to long walks to Sunday lunches. The neutral beige colour also means they can be teamed with nearly any other color or pattern and the cropped style ensures they’ll work with any boot or trainer. Adding gold jewellery and basics with a touch of luxe – like these pony-fur heel Stan Smith Adidas trainers – keep simple trousers looking interesting, too.

Above: Shirt Zara, Blazer Alice & Olivia, Gillet Vintage, Trousers Oliver Brown, Trainers Adidas
A BESPOKE VERSION WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN

Whether gardening, partying or riding her beautiful horse Marmite, Claudia Rothermere is rarely seen in anything other than an immaculate ensemble. The inherent English traditionalism of being pristine when aboard a beautiful horse is something Claudia nails with these linen Bernard Weatherill bespoke breeches, John Lobb brown boots and a well tailored Ralph Lauren jacket – as a supporter of The Chalke Valley History Festival I would expect no less. I would cite Davies Riding Boots as a good place to track down handmade hunting attire.

LOOK OUT FOR STYLISH ALTERNATIVES TO BREECHES

There are alternatives to the traditional breeches, as proven by Eleanor Harmsworth’s moss green jeans here. Ellie, as she’s known to her friends, is studying at Oxford University but escapes to the country most weekends to ride. Teaming these jeans with a lightweight Miu Miu tweed coat and slightly more summery Alice & Olivia floral shirt makes this the perfect balance for a typically English spring weekend.

These 100% cotton breeches are perfect for the summer months. You can also get them fully tailored and adapted with additional features, such as leather patches.
Lightweight cotton hunt breeches, £145, oliverbrown.org.uk
Ditch your riding jacket in favour of a neutral linen blazer. This Zara version will work just as well for jaunts around town, too.
Linen blazer, £59.99, zara.com

You can’t go wrong with a wardrobe full of bright floral loose-fitting tops that you can throw over hunting breeches for a cheerful post-ride look.
Embroidered tunic, £306.40, aliceandolivia.com