Country Garden
By Krissy Turner, fashion editor at Eliza
As a fashion editor and champion of the high street, Krissy Turner is our go-to woman when it comes to shopping for trend-led buys. In the first of her new season trend edits for La Redoute, Krissy covers the styling tips and the best pieces to buy when dipping your toes into the popular 'country garden' trend this spring…
The first signs of spring have sprung, and the 'country garden' trend is perfect for the lead up to summer, signalling a new season and (highly anticipated) warmer weather.
Thankfully, garish florals and bright gingham prints aren’t the only way to go if you’re keen. Timely blooms are cropping up all over the new-in section, and the subtle, chic interpretation of the trend by La Redoute combines a soft colour palette and fresh prints, with the signature classic silhouettes the brand is famous for. It means it’s take on 'country garden' feels modern, and the pieces are surprisingly versatile.
There are seven styles on my radar that’ll brighten up every look this spring…
The wear-anywhere floral dress
First up, is the one-stop-wonder floral dress. Look for one with light long sleeves (because, UK weather) and a flattering midi length which will work with a handful of shoe styles, just like this ditsy print number. For now, pair it with white canvas trainers, tortoiseshell sunglasses and a navy blazer.
The office-friendly trousers
Those typically keen on a minimal, slick look, take note: a pair of floaty wide-leg trousers in garden-green are exactly what you need to show office-face this season. The shade allows you to dabble in the country trend while avoiding print, offering a smarter take ideal for office environments. Team with a slouchy blue shirt, or a floral blouse to double up on the trend. Speaking of which…
The ‘It’ top
Rare is the top that looks just as good on its own as it does covered by a jumper, but this printed blouse ticks that tricky box. With a chic oversized Peter Pan collar, it’ll earn you maximum style points peeking out from under a navy knit. Wear it tucked into blue jeans or green trousers with a cable knit cardigan for now, then with a denim A-line midi skirt and wedge espadrilles later.
The sweet cover-up
Brits know better than to ditch the knitwear this early on. A cover-up is a must after dark for throwing on over a dress or top, though that’s not to say you’ll need to sacrifice your outfit in keeping warm. Look to an embroidered cardi with a subtle flowery print which won’t look too over-the-top with a gingham dress.
The pretty occasion frock
A dress that looks just as stylish with flat sandals and a straw tote for holiday evenings, as it does metallic heels and a pastel clutch bag for glam events, is a winner in the style stakes - not to mention the cost-per-wear potential. With its English country print and feminine frilled hems, this pretty one is a no-brainer for the summer months when garden parties and country weddings are filling up the calendar.
The practical mini option
Think ‘shorts’ and I’ll bet two pairs come to mind: a safari-esque khaki and festival-friendly blue denim. La Redoute’s latest offering is here to change that. This sweet floral pair combines fashion and function with aplomb. A grey T-shirt and denim jacket will make for a low-key pairing, but pastel mules and an ivory silk shirt will take you to summer soirees.
The statement accessory
Finally, for those who like to dabble in trends by way of an accessory, look no further. Enter the gingham waist belt, in a classic blue and white check that’ll add a new season spring feel to any look. Sporting an ivory blazer to work? Use it to cinch the waist in. Wearing a cream Broderie Anglaise dress for a picnic? Throw the belt in to add interest. Wearing a floral maxi? It’ll make for a fun, fashion-forward print clash.
We hope you enjoyed Krissy’s edit. Looking for more inspirational finds? Head over to the hub to see how stylist to the stars Gayle Rinkoff gets dressed for Spring.