raincoat — Notes on a Wardrobe

By the time we’ve got around to Lockdown 3.0, it’s pretty clear to all of us, just how important it is for our mental health to get outside for some fresh air and exercise – with or without a pal. I was self-isolating last week – awaiting Covid test results (fortunately negative) and the lack of fresh air and physical exercise brought on some fairly dark depression and feelings of desolation in me. But even when the option is there to exercise and we know just how vital it is, on these cold, short, dark days, it’s sometimes tricky to make yourself get out there and just do it.

But as Alfred Wainwright wrote in his book Coast to Coast, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”. So what kit do you need to incentivise you to get out when it’s bucketing down? These are the pieces I’m hankering after now.

It may seem a strange item to top a stylist’s wishlist, but for walks in muddy parks and fields these Stutterheim rain boots are the perfect addition. Whilst I love the contrasting sole, in a pale or bright colour, they will serve to knock an inch of the length of your leg. Keeping it in a dark contrasting colour, you can still make the most of the design detail without sacrificing crucial leg length. Your trousers should meet the top of the boot, so there is very little sock on show.

Patagonia Retro-X Fleece — The Fleece

Patagonia’s Men’s Classic Retro- Fleece Jacket, £180, eu.patagonia.com

Remember when fleeces were the ultimate signifier of geek-dom? No longer. Everyone from Miu Miu (candy pink and £1145, in case you were interested), to Frame have launched fleece jackets and pullovers for that WFH wardrobe. I love the retro vibes from this Patagonia style. It is quite boxy (it is menswear) so I would go down a size, and wear it as a jacket, as opposed to a layer. Patagonia also has some really noteworthy, genuinely altruistic sustainability credentials too.

Berghaus x Kestin — The Windcheater

Berghaus Blueprints by Kestin Mera Mid-Layer, £199, kestin.co

While we’re talking of borrowing from the boys, outdoors brand Berghaus has collaborated with some Scottish talent in the shape of Kestin Hare to launch a collection of retro inspired kit. They have some brightly coloured old-school cagoules that I love, but my wardrobe is crying out for the Mera Mid-Layer. It’s insulated with a breathable fleece but the characteristic that makes it so great for us girls, is the adjustable cord hem. When tightened and tucked under itself, it won’t shorten legs the way that a hip-length jacket will, nor will it finish at what (for a lot of us) is our widest point.

M&S faux leather trousers — The Vegan trousers

Marks & Spencer Faux-Leather Evie Trousers, £14 (reduced from £39), marksandspencer.com

OK – so these may seem a bit rogue on a list of outdoor essentials, but there really is nothing worse than wet denim. Wipe clean and at the very least, water resistant, they’re faux leather (or vegan, if you prefer) and are super comfortable. I purchased them in black before Christmas (now sold out) and have recommended them to a couple of clients who have also loved them. They look great with trainers now, but will also look great with a flat pump or sandal when we’re allowed ‘out out’.

Rains rain coat — The Rain Coat

Rains belt jacket, £89, uk.rains.com

This is the second week running that I’ve recommended a Rains jacket (and also the second time I’ll urge you to ignore the model’s miserable posture), but there is a simple reason for that. A cagoule needn’t lack style nor be unflattering to be practical. This belted style has a feminine shape and is a good length for actually keeping you dry. The belt is attached, so won’t get waylaid, and it comes in six shades including this iridescent khaki that is perfect if you’re looking for something with a bit of lift – sheen next to the face is really flattering, especially on older skin.

Colourful Standard Hoody — The Bright Hoody

Colourful Standard Unisex Hoody in Sunny Orange, £60, colourfulstandard.co.uk

I’m a sucker for some Instagram marketing, especially when it comes in a shade as jolly as this Sunny Orange. Made from 100% organic cotton, with environmentally friendly dyes, Colourful Standard specialise in delivering great basics (think organic cotton tees and sweatpants, merino jumpers and beanies) in a huge array of colours (this hoody comes in a staggering 41 shades). This style is Unisex, so the brand recommend women go down a size which is great if you have an athletic, straight body (a tight hem will give you some shape). However, if you’re on the curvy side, you want the hem to hang loosely so that you can nail that perfect French tuck. Make sure you buy the size that works for your shape.

& Daughter Snood — The Snood

& Daughter Vera Striped Cashmere Snood, £110, and-daughter.co.uk

And finally, the snood returns in this 100% cashmere style from British brand & Daughter. & Daughter focus on producing quality products in limited runs from natural yarns sourced in Britain and Ireland. Their styles have that homespun feel to them, but with a professional finish. As well as that, 20% of the profits from sale of this snood go to Refuge to support women and children who are survivors of domestic abuse, so it’s a win-win.

And remember, Spring is coming. By the end of this week, sunset will be as late as 4:30pm, so there is cause for optimism.