Nautical stripes aren’t just for the beach…
Stripes are my go to summer print – and shouldn’t be restricted to coastal jaunts. Her Burberry shirt dress is a prime example of why. The striped cotton and loose fit cut is super practical and makes for an easy base item to pile on the layers; something you’ve always got to think about on a distinctly English day in the countryside. Keep the mannish feel of the shirt looking smart with a well structured blazer like this from Purdy and add a flash of colour by layering items like this Campbell’s of Beauly yellow cardigan. Perfect for blending in with the daffodils that are so rampant at this time of year.
Tamara Warhurst is proof that there’s no reason to avoid stripes – or shop only from maternity brands – when you’re pregnant. I love the way she’s added a little bit of fun and texture to her nautical stripes with this Yves Salomon horizontally striped coat. Oversized coats are a clever way to disguise a bump and to take an outfit up a level. Tamara is about to launch her luxury lifestyle and bespoke furnishings business Teeka. Note too, her attention to detail: matching her Penelope Chilvers jodhpur boots with her dogs collars.
The beauty of a striped top is that it fits seamlessly into any country wardrobe. Rose Macdonald Buchanan has perfectly mismatched her colours and patterns with this outfit, giving off an impression of effortlessness I often strive to create but regularly fail to achieve. Her Portugese Monteria riding boots are also evidence that you should always look for hidden gems abroad – a mantra Rose is soon to turn into a business, starting her own boutique brand featuring clothing, accessories and homeware from exotic corners of the world. For a more summery take try teaming this style of boot with a midi dress.
