What to Wear for Your Next Country Event
Photo by Arthur Smouk on Unsplash
Country events have a unique dress code that calls for a balance of smart, practical and classic country charm. With numerous world-class country events coming up, including the renowned Burghley Horse Trials in September, Naylors has put together information on the upcoming event along with country-inspired outfit pieces you can take with you to your next country event.
What are the Burghley Horse Trials?
Dubbed the 'world's greatest 5-star equestrian event', Burghley Horse Trials is a three-day eventing competition that tests riders and horses, comprising dressage, cross-country and jumping. The event hosts 80 of the world's top competitors and over 170,000 spectators.
When are the Burghley Horse Trials?
The Burghley Horse Trials 2026 event spans four days from Thursday 3rd to Sunday 6th September.
Where are Burghley Horse Trials?
Burghley Horse Trials is set in the majestic historical grounds of Burghley House in the market town of Stamford in Lincolnshire, England.
How do I get to Burghley Horse Trials?
For those travelling by car, follow directions for the postcode PE9 3JY, which will lead you towards Burghley House. From there, follow the temporary yellow road signs that will lead you to the event.
For train passengers, the train line to Stamford runs from Birmingham, Leicester, Nuneaton or Peterborough.
What should I wear for Burghley Horse Trials?
Burghley Horse Trials describes its dress code as ‘country chic’, requiring a polished country look that can handle everything from muddy pathways to sunny grandstands.
Naylors has put together some country inspiration for those struggling to find their fit with different styles to get all avid country women and men ready for event day.
Classic Country Chic
Create a classic country chic look with a checked or striped country shirt or a half-zip knit. These lightweight layers make it easy to adapt to changing weather conditions while maintaining that polished country aesthetic. Sleek, practical waterproof country boots that can handle muddy, slippery conditions are a must for all country events.
Barbour Women's Bredon Regular Long-Sleeved Shirt Hessian Tartan
Timeless country shirt that pairs effortlessly with trousers and boots for a classic, polished event day look.
Barbour Women's Croton Casual Jacket Olive
The perfect outer layer which will complement your country outfit, delivering that heritage-inspired style. Featuring a casual four-pocket style, classic cord collar and internal waist drawcord for a tailored silhouette and the perfect country fit.
Barbour Women's Zaria Half Zip Jumper Black
Made with a soft cotton blend, the Zaria Half Zip features a classic half zip neckline and a regular fit for easy layering. Finished with subtle Barbour branding and ribbed cuffs and hem
Relaxed Countryside Style
Opt for comfortable layers that balance practicality and effortless style. A classic Breton top paired with a quilted gilet creates a timeless look equally suited to exploring the event village or watching the action unfold.
Joules Womens Harbour Striped Boat Neck Breton Top Cream & Navy Striped
A comfortable classic, supremely comfortable whilst still stylish, it has a relaxed fit and shorter fit through the body, ideal for a relaxed countryside look.
Joules Womens Minx Showerproof Diamond Quilted Gilet Navy Blue
An outdoor essential, the Minx Showerproof Diamond features a diamond quilted design, a zip-through fastening, pockets with exposed metal poppers, an elasticated back channel with popper-adjusted tabs, fitted side panels for a flattering look and it is finished with a Joules embroidered hare to the hem.
The Modern Country Gentleman
For a modern country gentleman look, consider a checked shirt paired with a smart half-zip to create a polished yet practical base layer. A lightweight waterproof jacket or quilted gilet will keep you protected from the elements and keep your outfit event-ready. Finish with practical country trousers and waterproof country boots for a look that is as much at home in hospitality as it is alongside the cross-country course. Here are a few pieces to consider when creating your modern country gentleman look.
Barbour Mens Bretby Quilted Gilet Navy
The perfect year-round layer that would pair exceptionally well with a range of country outfits. Integrated with a baffle-quilted outer and FibreDown filling for lightweight warmth. Featuring a two-way front zip, a stand collar for versatile wearability, and two in-seam side pockets for added practicality, ideal for carrying essentials around for country events.
Barbour Mens Cotton Half Zip Knitted Jumper Olive Marl
A tasteful country layer crafted from a lightweight cotton knit, featuring a half zip which is trimmed with tartan to the inner facing, a signature ring puller, and finished with subtle Barbour detailing including a tonal embroidered logo to the chest.
Hoggs of Fife Mens Inverness Cotton Tattersall Shirt White/Blue/Green
Smart, soft, breathable and wicks away moisture from your skin, this is an excellent choice for comfort and a fashionable country fit.
Hoggs of Fife Mens Kincraig Waterproof Field Trousers Olive Green
No gentleman’s country outfit is complete without a sturdy, practical pair of trousers.
Combining country chic with practical comfort and protection, the Kincraig is designed to utilise a technical two-tone shell fabric no matter the weather on event day. Reinforced knees and convenient adjustable cuffs allow for a comfortable country fit.
Country Boots For Every Occasion
Every country outfit needs the perfect pair of country boots to complete the look. Besides providing timeless style, boots are crucial for navigating muddy pathways during country shows, with enhanced stability and control, allowing you to focus on having a great time at the event.
Ariat Womens Telluride II H2O Lace Boots Dark Brown
The Telluride II H20 features a moisture-wicking footbed which allows you to stay dry, cool and comfortable throughout changing event day conditions, while the Gel-cushioned footbed with added heel stabiliser allows for total comfort.
Barbour Womens New Tempest Wellington Boots Olive
The Barbour Women's New Tempest Boots offer a durable and robust vulcanised rubber outer, making them ideal for a country event. With insulation and extra cushioning, the non-slip rubber sole and adjustable leg strap ensure a comfortable fit throughout the day.
Shop Country at Naylors
Whether you're attending Burghley Horse Trials or another country event this season, the key is finding the right balance of comfort, style and practicality. From heritage-inspired shirts to outer layers that keep you weather-ready and country boots that expertly balance look and practicality, Naylors has everything you could need for your next visit to a country event.
Get the latest country clothing, footwear and accessories for your next country show at Naylors -
