Deciding what to wear is never easy. You may think it’s hard coming up with an outfit for work, but wait till you have to dress for the country. When visiting the picturesque parts of rural Australia, it’s important that you dress in a comfortable and functional way in order to enjoy the scenery to the fullest. But let’s be honest, you also want a couple of great Instagram photos and wearing your old, washed-out leggings is not the way you want to present yourself to the public. So, you’re faced with the dilemma of whether to dress for functionality or style. I say, why not both? Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect balance.
Style Tips
If you want to look as fashionable as possible, I’d suggest adopting a style that was created to allow you to withstand the countryside conditions with style. Namely, the cowboy look. Cowboys and cowgirls have always been a cool bunch, not only because of their sass but also because of their powerful and unique style. Consider creating outfits consisting of denim, leather or oilskin cowboy coats and jackets, denim jeans, chequered shirts, Stockman or Roper boots and other traditionally Western pieces. You can find stylish cowboy-inspired pieces at any country and Western clothing store selling brands such as Levi’s, Ariat, Wranglers and similar names.
Functionality Tips
While cotton and polyester clothes may be just fine for the city, the countryside is a whole different story. While a simple cotton Tee is certainly very comfortable, it won’t stand a chance on a walk in a nearby prickly forest. And while your Converse sneakers may feel like you’re walking on air, once you step on the rough and dusty rural terrain, you’ll curse yourself for not bringing sturdier boots along.
With that being said, it’s really important that you’re dressed in a functional way. So, when it comes to clothes, try to stick to hard-wearing fabrics. Pants and cowboy coats and jackets made of denim or moleskin are a great option. Denim is especially suitable if you want to stay cool and protected at the same time. And on the other hand, if you’re going on a countryside vacation in the autumn or winter, it’s important to stay dry and warm. With that being said, moleskin, oilskin offer great insulation, are wind-resistant and often treated to be waterproof as well. Similarly, choose boots that are waterproof and have a thick sole which soften the impact from rocks and uneven terrain. You can also bring along a pair of flip-flops if you want to let your feet breathe as you’re lounging.
