To mark out this occasion and make it into a bigger holiday, many escape to the countryside for a UK staycation. However, packing for these events can be tricky due to the unpredictable weather and sometimes limited space.
To help those heading off on a staycation in the countryside, Joules, has revealed their staycation staples, exploring practical and stylish combinations.
The brand has also partnered with wellness experts Dr Sham Singh and Amanda Strowbridge to reveal the well-being benefits of spending time in the countryside.
Opt for practical pieces that will withstand unpredictable weather:
“When for a trip to the countryside, the weather is a huge and important factor – so be realistic and pack for the predicted weather rather than what you wish it to be. This mindset will save luggage space as all the combinations should fit in a weekend bag.
“Select practical pieces that can be layered and dressed up or down depending on the occasion as this allows you to mix and match.
“A waterproof coat that is parka style and a lighter raincoat with a hood is ideal for countryside breaks. A bold colour such as yellow or green adds a statement or one that’s a different pattern such as quilted allows you to play with textures – adding dimension to any look.
“When choosing – prioritise one with a hood as we lose a lot of body heat from our hands and our heads, so coats with warm pocket linings, hoods and drawcords ensure the cold stays out and the warm stays in.”
Focus on layering pieces such as fleeces and chunky knitwear that will keep the warmth in whilst staying on trend:
“Fleeces are the perfect layering piece for long walks and ones that are a brighter shade allow you to tap into trends such as colour blocking. Or choosing one with a bold design such as striped and spotted helps incorporate more patterns into your wardrobe for the trip.
“The same can be said for knitwear pieces as these can be easily dressed up or down depending on the neckline, pattern and colour. A knit sweater vest with a shirt underneath paired with straight-leg trousers and loafers instantly takes the look to nighttime whilst a cable knit jumper embodies country chic.
Incorporate base layers like long-sleeve pieces, t-shirts and thermals to build the base of any outfit:
“Depending on the season, thermals are a good and practical option as they are designed to keep the heat in. These can come in leggings, tights or tops and can be styled with skirts for a dressier look or sweatshirts for a more comfortable combination.
“Opt for packing neutral basic tops that go with multiple items and can be layered. A white t-shirt is great for building the base of any outfit as it can be dressed down or up with the right accessories.”
Opt for suitable and comfortable footwear for long country walks:
“Choosing comfortable footwear doesnt mean you have to sacrifice style. Wellies are an ideal option for keeping your feet warm and dry on walks. Opt for plain black for a casual country-chic look or patterned for a statement.
“Or play with a different silhouette by choosing shorter ones that cover your ankle. Another option that’s perfect for grabbing a quick bite to eat at the pub is plain white trainers or canvas pumps as these will keep your feet supported or go bold with pink to add some colour to the outfit.”
Go bold with accessories to add a statement to any outfit:
“Accessorising is an easy way to elevate any outfit and pieces such as scarves, snoods and beanies are also a good way of adding warmth. Opt for a tartan or checked scarf to tap into the country manor aesthetic or a silk one to dress up an evening outfit.
“Going bold with your beanie colour allows you to add more colour and dimension to any outfit. The material also allows you to play with different textures.”
For those dressier evenings, opt for rich materials and colours to elevate looks:
“For evenings, midi or maxi dresses are the perfect option. These pieces allow you to experiment with various patterns such as floral or gingham whilst the length offers warmth.
“For two pieces – opt for ruffle or frill neck blouses to add sophistication to your evening looks. Go bold with a paisley pattern or keep it simple with a darker red. A simple way to add luxe to any look is to choose richer materials such as chiffon, velvet and satin.
“Blouses are great versatile pieces as they can be paired with jeans, skirts (both midi and short) and smart trousers. If you’re feeling like making a statement – opt for different patterns on your top half and bottom half to tap into the clashing prints trend. Chuck on a longline wool coat or blazer to add more patterns and warmth to the look.
Escaping to the countryside and spending time with friends is not just enjoyable; it’s also beneficial for the body and mind. Wellness experts Dr Sham and Amanda highlight the importance of spending time outdoors.
Carving out dedicated time to spend with friends has a positive impact on emotional well-being through lowering stress and feeling understood:
Amanda explains: “Being able to carve out time to spend with friends can have enormous positive benefits for your mental and emotional wellbeing. It can strengthen self-esteem and promote feelings of peace. Choosing who we want to spend time with gives us a sense of control over our lives which can help us feel more confident – leading to a more positive self-image”
Dr Sham adds: “Getting together with friends, can be super impactful for emotional well-being and stress management as it offers an escape from daily pressures.
“Gratitude evokes positive feelings that might make us feel better and more resilient. This could also lower feelings of loneliness by reminding us that we are all connected through shared experiences and things appreciated.
Being surrounded by nature provides the opportunity to practice mindfulness:
Dr Sham explains: “We have fewer distractions and move at a slower pace outdoors which allows for much-needed relaxation and connects us on a mindful level to those we are with. These breaks allow us to rest our minds so we can think clearly. Over time, such connections and times in nature reinforce belonging, resilience, and emotional stability that contribute to well-being.”
Amanda adds: “When we are outside in nature all of our senses are engaged which boosts mindfulness and allows one to become more present. We can overcome overwhelmed feelings which helps boost hormones such as serotonin and oxytocin. These can promote feelings of relaxation and trust – which in turn helps us feel secure, safe and nurtured.
“Spending time outdoors lowers cortisol which is the body’s stress hormone. Fresh air and natural light also have a positive effect on our circadian rhythms which help promote sleep and relaxation.”
Quality time with friends helps reinforce a sense of belonging:
Dr Sham explains: “Quality time in the countryside among friends bond cements social ties and a sense of belonging. In this relaxed environment, natural surroundings may let us be freer and oftentimes more vulnerable which can strengthen friendships.
“Activities like preparing meals together, and exploring trails create the fabric for meaningful conversations and reinforce the sense of community. These breaks away offer much-needed doses of bonding, unwinding, and rejuvenation.”
Amanda adds: “Away from the usual demands of work and daily life, the countryside can provide a slower pace of life allowing for more meaningful and unhurried conversations.
“Without distractions and other commitments, we can feel more at ease with ourselves – creating a safe space without judgement that allows us to be more vulnerable.
“We can look back on unique shared memories that foster a sense of community and love. These experiences can create feelings of empathy and understanding that others may not share with us or fully understand.”
For all your countryside and staycation outfit inspiration, visit the Joules website.
About Joules:
Founded in 1989, in Market Harborough by Tom Joule, Joules is proud of its heritage and believes in classic clothing with a tasteful twist, and preppy style with a playful side. Joules loves being clever with colour, is dedicated to detail and always on a quest for quality.
Today, Joules is focused on surprising and delighting customers by designing clothing, footwear and accessories for women, men and children.
