The rising trend of “allotment chic” is transforming gardening wear into a bona fide fashion statement. Prestigious brands like Dior and Hermès have recently incorporated horticultural elements into their runway shows, making fashionable gardening outfits more sought-after than ever. For seasoned gardeners, comfort, durability, and ease of movement remain paramount—typically achieved with classic denim shorts and well-worn tees reminiscent of styles from decades past.
This stylish blend of fashion and gardening has sparked enthusiasm across social media platforms, with influencers showcasing their chic garden looks and even prioritizing events like the Chelsea Flower Show above traditional fashion weeks.
If you want to garden in style this summer, follow these expert tips from Cotswold-based gardening and fashion creator Josie Irons.
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“Practicality is essential when gardening,” says Irons, “but that doesn’t mean you can’t look and feel fabulous while tending your blooms.”
Josie’s go-to choice is a lightweight, strappy dress—ideally one with a little character, like a few scuffs, but crucially one that’s easy to wash. She advises steering clear of delicate fabrics like silk, which can snag easily on thorny plants. While white is a summer favorite, Josie avoids light colors when digging or sowing seeds to keep stains at bay.
For a more grounded look, she recommends olive linen shorts paired with an oversized floral blouse and a wide-brimmed sun hat—a perfect ensemble for working in the kitchen garden.
Fabric choice is vital during hot weather. Irons cautions against polyester, both for environmental reasons and because it traps heat, making you uncomfortable on sunny days. Instead, she prefers breathable, natural fibers like cotton and linen, selecting loose-fitting pieces for maximum airflow.
When it comes to footwear, style need not be sacrificed for function. Josie favors slip-on shoes for quick trips in and out of the house and often opts for her Vivobarefoot trainers—a barefoot shoe designed to support natural foot posture and ideal for gardening activities. Alternatively, she recommends comfortable clogs that offer protection without compromising ease of wear.
Sun protection is non-negotiable during long gardening sessions, and accessories can add a stylish touch. Josie emphasizes the importance of a broad sun hat, sunglasses, and a breezy blouse to shield skin from the sun while maintaining a chic appearance. She advises removing bulky rings and bracelets but encourages keeping favorite earrings and necklaces that won’t impede gardening tasks.
Though a day in the garden rarely flows straight into social events, a quick refresh can make all the difference. Josie suggests a fast hair brush, a swipe of lipstick, and some statement jewelry to elevate a gardening outfit for a casual lunch or supper with friends.
For combining practicality and style, Josie leans toward country classics like Schoffel, Boden, and Holland Cooper, while often sourcing affordable and durable pieces from brands like H&M. Her philosophy is clear: the best gardening clothes are those that stand up to nature’s tests, especially the occasional run-in with rose bushes.
With Josie Irons’ tips, looking fabulous while digging in the dirt is easier than ever—embracing the charm and functionality of “allotment chic” this summer.