How to Dress Country Chic

Country-chic style is a generic name that includes several different styles, ranging from Western cowboy style to English country style. Contemporary reinterpretations of Western and English country style are currently very trendy, and many famous designers have included country elements in their recent collections.

Cowboy Western Style

Although cowboys are part of the American culture, people all over the world have embraced the cowboy lifestyle and cowboy-inspired fashion elements. The most recognizable Western-style features are, without a doubt, the cowboy boots, the cowboy hat, and the cowboy belt. These traditional elements can be very similar to the original ones, or they can be reinterpreted.

For a basic Western style, you can just throw on a pair of cowboy boots or a cowboy hat. Try to choose only one of these elements to style your outfit, otherwise, it might be too much. Choose one classic cowboy style element and build your outfit around it. A wide leather belt with an oversize decorative buckle can also give your look a Western vibe.

Our advice is to invest in a pair of high-quality cowboy boots. Not only will they last for years, but they will also look amazing with any outfit. Boots and hats go well with plaid shirts, so make sure to have a couple of plaid shirts in your wardrobe. You can go for any color combination you prefer, as long as you keep your boots on the neutral side.

Jeans are also a must-have for the Western style, but not just any kind of jeans. Bootcut or slim fit jeans, with a light wash and discolored look, are suitable for cowboy-inspired looks and go well with tall boots, plaid shirts, chunky sweaters, and wide leather belts. Denim jackets with fringes and shearling jackets also match with cowboy hats and tall leather boots.

Lastly, don’t forget about jewelry, for the final touch. For a country-chic cowgirl look, jewelry definitely needs to be on the chunky side, such as statement necklaces or bangles. Jewelry that combines leather strings with oversize pendants is also a good choice. Native American-inspired pieces of jewelry, with turquoise stones, are a must-have for Western outfits.

English country style

This style is inspired by what English countrymen typically wear. If you enjoy living in the countryside, gardening, or hunting, certain clothing items are essential. As you are pruning roses or setting up chipmunk traps, like these really good ones, you can also look stylish. Instead of cowboy boots, go for practical rubber boots and instead of jeans, opt for riding pants.

Colors are also very important when it comes to the English countryside style. Natural earth-tones are preferred, including beige, brown, and brick red, as opposed to vivid or neon colors. Darker shades are also specific to English-inspired outfits, as well as traditional patterns such as Argyle, plaid, Herringbone, and Houndstooth.

Natural fabrics are another essential element of the English countryside style. Polyester should definitely be avoided and replaced by cotton, linen, wool, and silk. For a stylish look, experiment with layering. Midi skirts and riding pants are the typical options for bottoms, but there are several options for tops, including poplin or flannel shirts, blouses, sweaters, and cardigans.

The most common accessories in English-inspired looks are hats and gloves. You can choose from a variety of hats, ranging from felt hats, caps, and berets to straw hats, which are more appropriate for the warmer seasons. Gloves are usually made of leather and are a must-have for both men and women.

For a contemporary style, you can combine elements from the two main country-chic styles, or you can introduce contrasting elements.