Style Lessons From Classic British Films Set in the Countryside

Where tweed meets timelessness, and muddy boots are worn with pride

Rural Fashion Through the Lens of British Cinema

There’s something magical about British countryside films – the rolling hills, the misty moors, the sleepy villages… and the wardrobe that whispers stories of tradition, utility, and understated elegance.

These films have done more than capture our hearts – they’ve defined how we dress the countryside dream. At The Mad Hatter of Durham, we see daily how film influences fashion choices. From fedoras to scarves, wax jackets to bobble hats – let’s take a walk down the cinematic path and unearth real style lessons from classic British countryside films.

**1. Far from the Madding Crowd (1967 & 2015)**

Key Style: Rural resilience meets feminine freedom
Julie Christie (and later Carey Mulligan) gave us a masterclass in strong-willed, practical style. Think long coats, billowing scarves, natural fabrics, and hats that blend seamlessly into the landscape. Their looks were soft yet commanding – perfect for navigating wild moors and social expectations.

🧣 Get the Look:

Style takeaway: Countryside fashion is all about earthy tones, layered textures, and freedom of movement.

**2. The Remains of the Day (1993)**

Key Style: Classic country gentry
Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson’s attire reflected 1930s English refinement. The staff uniforms, wool overcoats, stiff collars, and riding gear all added layers to the social class commentary. For countryside fashion? It was a nod to polished, formal wear, even in the rural heartland.

🎩 Consider pairing a fedora with a smart coat and accessorising with subtle flair, such as a feather pin or lapel brooch.

🪶 Feather Hat Band Accessory

Style takeaway: Small, tailored details turn a practical outfit into a dignified ensemble.

**3. Calendar Girls (2003)**

Key Style: Cosy, cheeky countryside chic
A true celebration of Yorkshire warmth – both literally and figuratively. Between the cardigans, headscarves, bobble hats, and a hint of rebellion, this film made country women look relatable and radiant. Their winter layers were worn with pride – and plenty of personality.

🧶 Channel that warmth with:

Style takeaway: The countryside wardrobe is often playful and full of heart. Layer up and wear what makes you smile.

**4. The Go-Between (1971)**

Key Style: Edwardian elegance with countryside roots
Think parasols, delicate blouses, straw hats and starched linen – set against Norfolk gardens and sticky summer heat. The contrast of social formality in a rural setting showed how the countryside could be relaxing and refined.

👒 The Plain Straw Hat

Style takeaway: Light materials, muted pastels, and wide-brimmed hats are the ultimate countryside summer statement.

**5. Withnail & I (1987)**

Key Style: Grunge meets the countryside
This cult classic didn’t scream fashion, but it inspired a generation. Mismatched layers, oversized coats, well-worn scarves, and bohemian hats became iconic. It was city-boy-in-the-country, stumbling stylishly through mud and misadventure.

🎩 Add personality with:

Style takeaway: There’s beauty in the mess – countryside style doesn’t always need polish. Just confidence.