Dress code: Country Chic

Dear Mrs Ribbing,

Of course, country elegance, or country chic, is not a traditional dress code and it is more ambiguous than Morning dress for instance. But it does not take much of my tweedy imagination to figure out that for a “Garden Party” in Scandinavia the dress code “lantlig elegans” must be inspired by the attire of rural England. A clothing style as well known and liked as British murder stories. But if in doubt, asking the hosts is a good suggestion.

For the gentleman the odd jacket is perfect, preferably in tweed, but a navy blazerA usually dark navy single or double breasted jacket with brass or horn buttons. will do. Add a country check shirt, or a lightly coloured oxford shirt, a tie or even better a cravat. CorduroyCorduroy is a textile composed of twisted fibers that, when woven, lie parallel (similar to twill) to one another to form the cloth's distinct pattern, a "cord." Modern corduroy is most commonly composed of tufted cords, sometimes exhibiting a channel (bare to the base fabric) between the tufts. Corduroy is, in essence, a ridged form of velvet. In Sweden known as "Manchester" trousers, or if wearing a blazer, boldly coloured cotton twillA fabric woven in parallel diagonal ribs, by passing the weft thread alternatively over and under one or more warp threads. Tweed, gabardine, cheviot and denim, for example, are all twills. trousers. Do not forget to casually slip a pocket squareA handkerchief worn in the breast pocket of a jacket. Traditionally in silk, cotton or linen. into your jacket’s breast pocket. As for the shoes, definitely brown brogues.

For the lady there are number of possible routes, but stay out of those high heels. Slim jeans and a tailored tweed jacket? A pencil skirt and a cashmere jumper? A flowery dress with a large brimmed hat? Yes, yes and, if warm enough, yes! I think you ladies have got the picture by now and there is plenty enough room for your imagination as well.

Yours,
Mr. Tweed