Moving abroad has given me the joy of discovering some new British clothing brands that I wasn’t exposed to in the states. I’ve always been drawn to classic style – the likes of J.Crew, Ralph Lauren, and Kate Spade (luckily, all three are in the same two blocks on Regent Street, so they’re never too far away).
But the Brits have classic style perfected. Think tweed jackets for the country, Breton tops for the seaside, wool sweaters for the winter, and wellies for the rain – all with the tailoring and fit that makes it polished.
I’ve gotten to know new household names (or “high street” brands as they say here) that provide that classic style I can get without a trip to London. Here’s a list of some of my favourite British clothing brands for classic style (in alphabetical order). And lucky for you, all of these have international shipping.
Comment below if I’ve missed any of your favourites. And happy browsing!
If you’re looking for classic British countrywear that will keep you protected from the elements in style, head over to the Barbour site. Grab yourself the OG of Barbour pieces – the waxed jacket – or the more modern quilted jacket to look undeniably British.
If you’ve been around here for any period of time, you know my love for Boden. [Full disclosure, I’m in a working partnership with Boden, but absolutely would spend (and have spent!) my own money on this brand.] Their focus is on colour, classic pieces that brighten up your day while also acting as wardrobe staples. Snag a colourful tweed jacket or their famous Breton tops to jazz up your work wardrobe.
Crew is the iconic British coast clothing – think stripes in red and blue, cable knit sweaters, and relaxed but polished chino trousers. Their first piece was a rugby shirt (which they’ve thankfully now made a women’s rugby dress), but pick up a striped sweater for the ultimate in coastal style.
This is where you shop if you need polished clothing to wear to work, a wedding, or a garden party. I have fallen in love with their pencil skirts (which are the perfect balance between comfort and style) and trench coats (for those of us who won’t be springing for a Burberry).
Okay, of course I’d heard of Hunter before I moved to the UK. But did you know they do more than rain boots? The best umbrella I own is from Hunter, and they will more than prepare you for any festival you’re headed to this summer with weatherproof bags.
Joules is your traditional British clothing (for both country and coast) with a twist – think one button with a photo of a fox or a beautifully printed lining of a jacket. This is the place you go for not-so-basic basics like this navy quilted vest over a pheasant insartia sweater.
Welligogs was a country show discovery for me, where their luxury tweed jackets begged me to visit the tent. I went home with a gorgeous blue jacket and have since ordered a feminine-cut wax jacket that has carried me through countless rainy days at the track. And don’t forget about their boots with signature tassels.
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11 August 2019