One of the key trends spilling off the top designer runways in Europe and the United States recalls cosy autumnal country walks, horseback riding through fern-lined trails, hayrides and hoedowns.
In something of a nod to the leisure pursuits of the season, when temperatures drop and leaves turn golden, clothing is specifically designed to be worn outdoors. But what is happening within the trend is about much more than Ugg boots, jodhpur pants and shearling lined coats from brands that specialise in outerwear. For autumn, uptown labels and others, such as Tory Burch, Rodarte and Proenza Schouler, have veered surprisingly into Burberry and Hermes territory, turning out their versions of country-gentrified dressing in cropped tweed coats and ankle-sweeping prairie skirts.
While the aesthetic would suit Corgi walking at Balmoral, it has its roots in rural lands across the ocean. Kate and Laura Mulleavy, the design duo siblings behind hip brand Rodarte, have said that their most recent offerings were inspired by the endless flat plains of Nebraska and Kansas. 'It's our very own heritage,' says New York-based stylist Colin McDonald. 'But you don't want to look like you just stepped off the farm.'
That, indeed, is the trick to embracing this trend, as it is with many definitive and directional ones: how to adopt it, keep it relevant, yet still have it work with other aspects of your wardrobe without looking too literal.
'I would try not to overdo it and just wear one or two pieces of this style,' says blogger Sophia Aloia, of intruefashion.wordpress.com. Her recommendations: a sweater with shearling detail, a pair of leather wedge booties or tall, flat boots, a plaid dress or sweater with a neutral-coloured floppy or wide-band hat.
Hong Kong based stylist Cheryl Leung advises wearing country-inspired pieces separately and choosing fabrics wisely. 'Go for wool bonded with leather coats and cashmere tweed for the most up to date feel. Think modernity, especially dressing rural and for winter in a city such as Hong Kong,' she says.