While our obsession with effortlessly chic French-Girl style is an enduring one—I find it’s the Brit-girls who take more style risks, exude an edgier aesthetic, and are decidedly individual in their style choices. Call me biased (I am British after all) but I always find the outfits across the pond exceedingly more interesting and exciting to observe. There’s a certain eccentricity within a Brit-girls wardrobe, a quirkiness that manifests itself in the form of chunky hand-made sweaters, heritage fabrics, elements of vintage and off-beat accessories—where convention and rebellion meet head on. This much is true: There’s outfit inspiration to be found wherever you go in England.
While there’s no doubt the lines are blurred when it comes to global fashion nowadays, there are certain markers of British fashion that feel unique—in part, due to factors such as the weather, its history, and the ever-changing zeitgeist.
As someone who grew up in England and observes British fashion a lot, today I thought it would be fun to share what cool pieces British fashion people would buy (and what they’re likely to bypass) should they find themselves wandering into a Nordstrom. (We’re keeping things hypothetical since there are no Nordstrom retailers in the U.K yet). If you’re curious keep scrolling for plenty of shopping inspiration.
From combat boots to knee-high boots—stylish Brits favor comfy, practical, and cool chunky lug soles (particularly in versatile black) that are easy to walk in and ideal for the British weather. They’ll pair their chunky boots with everything from floral dresses to jeans.
For everyday dressing (outside the gym), the Brits forgo the yoga pants in favor of jeans. While we see the whole gamut of denim styles in England—from Kate Moss inspired skinny jeans to trendy baggy jeans—it’s the versatile straight-leg styles we see on cool fashion girls time and time again.
From oversize leather bombers to biker silhouettes and blazers, a black leather jacket remains a British staple encapsulating the rebellious rock n roll era of the ’70s and ’80s and the off-duty supermodel style of the ’90s.
Whether layered with chunky boots, cardigans, and coats in the winter, or worn with sneakers or sandals in the summer—no matter what fashion-forward spin they put on them—floral midi dresses are an item the Brits embrace and wear no matter what the season.
Cozy, charming, and eccentric—colorful hand-knitted sweaters (or sweaters that at least look like they could have been hand-made) are an integral part to dressing for the colder climate and add a nerdy quirkiness to everyday basics. Brits generally favor these a lot more than sweaters emblazoned with logos.
British fashion girls don’t let the gray skies and year-round rain jeopardize their style. While puffers are certainly a part of British persons wardrobe, when they want to look polished, they’ll opt for long wool coat to brace the weather in style.
One staple you’ll always find in a stylish British woman’s wardrobe is a relaxed, slightly oversize blazer in a timeless neutral hue or heritage check print which they’ll throw on over everything from dresses to graphic tees. Classic and cool.
A relaxed crew neck sweater is an essential staple in a British wardrobe and serves as the backbone to outfits featuring statement prints or accessories. Stick classic and neutral hues that have the utmost versatility.
From plaid to leopard print, cool Brits know how to cleverly integrate statement prints into their outfits to add interest and excitement to their looks. Whether it’s a skirt or scarf, skip the neon highlighter hues and opt for a vintage-inspired pattern instead.
If there’s one item practically every woman owns in the U.K, it’s a trench coat. Not only ideal for the rain, it’s a stylish and versatile topper to wear over your work or weekend outfits.
Whether a classic silhouette or a chunky sole, loafers are the flats of choice for stylish Brits wanting to add a polished and cool touch to their everyday outfits.
British women love to pair loose tailored trousers with heels and sneakers alike, adding a smart touch to even the most casual of ensembles. A statement accessory will finish the look.
The U.K is predominantly a walking culture so when it comes to comfortable footwear, the Brits skip the flip flops and opt for retro and vintage-inspired sneaker styles to complete their casual outfits.
Next, A French Girl Walks Into Nordstrom—11 Items She’d Buy (and 11 She Wouldn’t)
