It is undeniable that Britain is seeing a rise in popularity of British heritage fashion. What was once a mainstay of the English countryside, has now become ubiquitous on the high street, and is also an essential element of British popular culture.
British Heritage Style
In a similar vein to the ‘preppy’ look of America (which has been exploited to full effect by the likes of Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle, & Gant et al.), which celebrated items such as vibrant sweaters & polos, Oxford shirts, deck shoes, and chinos; British heritage style celebrates traditional ‘rural’ classics, such as tweed blazers, plaids, knitwear, quilted jackets, tailoring, and exemplary footwear. Most importantly however, all of these items should come in an earthy colour palette of browns, greens & oranges.
If you wish to create this look for yourself, our guide to some of the key British heritage pieces will help you to create a look that can only be described as ‘quintessentially British’.
BARBOUR CLASSIC BEDALE JACKET
This mens Barbour jacket is undoubtedly a British heritage classic. The jacket is made from waxed cotton and features a front zip & placket, as well as Barbour’s classic tartan cotton lining.
Image Source: countryhouseoutdoor.co.uk
DUCK & COVER REESE COCOA BROWN CORD SHIRT
This exceptional shirt from Duck & Cover fits in perfectly with the British heritage look, owing mainly to its earthy cocoa brown shirt and corduroy material. Moreover, it would look as fantastic in a trendy bar as it would during a day of country pursuits.
Image Source: box-clothing.co.uk
VINTAGE RENEWAL SHETLAND CREW NECK SWEATER
An integral element of any rural inspired wardrobe is a classic thick knitted crew neck jumper. This particular piece of knitwear from Urban Outfitters is made from Shetland wool, and is guaranteed to keep you warm for a number of years to come.
Image Source: urbanoutfitters.co.uk
REISS BRIGHTLING CORD TROUSERS
Corduroy trousers are now available in a myriad of colours as well as a more contemporary silhouette. These straight cut cords are manufactured using pure cotton, and a deep pile cord finish, which would look fantastic as part of a British heritage style.
Image Source: reiss.com
CAHARTT RED HEATHER SOCKS
Why not roll up your cords a couple of times to show off a flash of colour? In my opinion, a good pair of thick woollen boot socks are an often overlooked element of a rural inspired wardrobe; these socks from Carhartt are an excellent choice.
Image Source: surfdome.com
FRACAP VIBRAM SOLED HIKING BOOTS
If you are want to look the part of an English country gent from head-to-toe, a pair of contemporary hiking/walking boots will help you set to create a unique rural aesthetic. This pair of expertly crafted walking/hiking boots will look exceptional, irrespective of whether you are dressed up or down.
Image Source: mywardrobe.com