We may have had a super sunny April but it looks like luck may not be on our side throughout May, with potentially some rainy weekends ahead. For many of us at the moment, daily walks are providing some much needed fresh air and a change of scenery during isolation, and I’m sure I’m not the only one who looks forward to finding a reason to wear my favourite clothes that otherwise haven’t seen the light of day lately.
Although it may be harder to motivate yourself to get out the house if it’s pouring outside, fear not, I’ve got the perfect outfit inspiration tips for any rainy days ahead. Whether you need to update your wardrobe with a few key extras, or you just need some new ideas on how to pair up your existing pieces for the ultimate outdoorsy look, consult this guide to staying stylish, as well as waterproof.
The perfect coat
First and foremost, the raincoat. The key is to pick a lightweight coat that you can layer over knitwear and jeans. Avoid fabrics that will get heavy in the rain like suede, velvet or faux-fur. Trenches have made a comeback lately, and now come in every colour, print and fabric you could dream of. Whether you prefer an understated classic like Arket’s fishtail parka or APC’s chic cotton piqué coat with a peter pan collar, there is something for everyone. As the weather is certainly warmer (albeit maybe wetter), a short raincoat could be the perfect option to remain cool but dry. Petit Bateau’s waterproof jacket is guaranteed to go with pretty much anything in your wardrobe, or for a bolder brighter option, Topshop’s Marigold belted jacket is the perfect statement.
Printed cotton piqué coat, £350, APC; Cotton raincoat, £125, Petit Bateau; Polyurethane belted jacket, £59, Topshop; Cotton parka, £150, Arket
The base layers
In typical British fashion, the weather is unpredictable at the moment, so make sure if you’re heading out for a long walk you have layers. Tie dye is a huge trend for 2020 so Ninety Percent’s organic long sleeve t-shirt is the perfect investment for your wardrobe this year. It'll see you through lockdown and beyond.
Organic cotton-jersey top, £70, Ninety Percent; Cotton t-shirt, £27, Hush; Polyester T-shirt, £185, Maje; Organic Cotton Crew Neck T-Shirt, £11.20, John Lewis
The thin knits
To avoid overheating on a walk and having to carry bulky layers, stick to thin knits which you can layer over your tees and tie around your waist if you start to work up a sweat. Zara’s peachy polo knit is the perfect pop of colour to add to a simple outfit. For a luxury knit investment, Bella Freud has an array of beautiful slogan jumpers in bright, cheering colourways.
Cashmere jumper, £420, Bella Freud; Merino wool jumper, £165, Sunspel; Merino wool jumper, £24.90, Uniqlo; Knitted viscose polo shirt, £25.99, Zara
The jeans
There is nothing worse than soggy trousers in the rain, so when dressing for long rainy walks steer clear of flares or any long trousers that will drag and soak up the puddles. Cropped jeans are ideal, like E.L.V Denim’s zero waste vintage jeans that also sit high on your waist for a super flattering cut. If you’re not a fan of black jeans, Whistles’ dark green corduroy jeans are a great alternative.
Cotton jeans, £39.50, Marks & Spencer; Upcycled jeans, £315, E.L.V Denim; Cotton jeans, £35.99, Mango; Cotton corduroy jeans, £99, Whistles
The comfy shoes
Comfy shoes are essential on any walk - stick to flat shoes with good thick soles. Toast’s hiking boots are the ideal option if you’re out walking in the countryside, and the padded heels mean you won’t get nasty blisters. If you’re city based and taking your strolls around the streets, Axel Arigato’s Clean 90 trainers in all black are an easy stylish alternative.
Leather boots, £139, Dr Martens; Leather hiking boots, £275, Toast; Leather trainers, £160, Axel Arigato; Suede boots, £95.99, Zara
The finishing touches
Don’t forget accessories - these are key to pulling any outfit together, but be sure to keep them practical. If your trench is lacking a hood, Lock & Co’s waterproof bucket hat is the perfect addition, and means you can be hands free on your walk. For bags, cross-body styles are ideal as they won’t get in the way whilst you’re walking and don’t weigh you down. Opt for Charles & Keith’s yellow woven bag for a lovely pop of colour.
Gore-tex waterproof rain hat, £195, Lock & Co; Polyurethane cross-body bag, £480, Stella McCartney; Polyethylene umbrella, £35, Hunter; Faux leather cross-body bag, £55, Charles & Keith
Need some more inspiration? Here are some outfit combinations to try...
Outfit 1:
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