Classic Attire for the Town and Country Gentleman
A Brief History of Traditional British Wear
What we now admire as traditional British wear began with a very practical purpose: function over form. Designed by farmers, for farmers, the earliest examples of English country gentleman clothing were born out of necessity. Enduring the changing British weather and challenging landscapes required clothing that was hard-wearing, weatherproof and comfortable. The result? A timeless style that’s as relevant today as it was generations ago.From moleskin trousers and waxed jackets to woollen jumpers and the iconic Tattersall check shirt, these staples of British traditional fashion continue to hold their place in the modern wardrobe.
Style Inspiration: From Royalty to Rural
You don’t need to look far to see this enduring style in action. Members of the Royal Family, particularly Princess Anne, have long championed traditional English fashion, re-wearing timeless outfits that are rooted in practicality, quality and understated elegance.
Of course, the true style icons of this movement remain the farmers, dog walkers, gamekeepers, and countryside dwellers who wear these clothes not for appearances but for daily use. Their wardrobes are built on tried-and-tested staples: garments that do the job and look good doing it.
A Heritage of Craft and Comfort
Here at James Meade, we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading outfitters of British traditional wear. For over 40 years, we’ve specialised in classic men’s clothing designed with the mature gentleman in mind. We understand that good fit, smart styling, and dependable quality never go out of fashion.Our in-house team carefully sources the finest fabrics from around the world to create garments that blend form, function and longevity, ideal for life in both town and country.
Designed for Town and Country Living
What sets our collection apart is its versatility. Our timeless pieces are just as suited to urban life as they are to rural pursuits. Whether you're heading out for a country walk, nipping into town, or planning a weekend away, you’ll find your wardrobe essentials at James Meade. Take our Lambswool Crew neck crafted in soft lambswool, it’s smart enough for a pub lunch in town but cosy enough for fireside evenings in the country.
Dressing Well at Every Age
As we mature, style becomes less about trends and more about dressing well for our age. At James Meade, we specialise in clothing for the older gentleman, where comfort and classic design go hand in hand. We don’t believe in baggy, ill-fitting substitutes; we create clothes tailored for a flattering, comfortable fit.From elasticated waist trousers that offer ease without sacrificing style to our expertly cut shirts that stay crisp all day, we help you look sharp whatever the occasion, whether it’s a country shoot, a stroll in the park, or Sunday lunch with the family.
A Year-Round Wardrobe
We know that dressing well in Britain means dressing for the seasons. Our British traditional fashion range covers everything from lightweight cotton shirts and tropical-weight trousers in summer to thick woollens and warm corduroy trousers in the colder months.
When winter comes calling, our thermal underwear, brushed cotton shirts, lambswool knitwear and quilted jackets become wardrobe staples. In warmer weather, you’ll find breathable classics to keep you smart and comfortable.
Read more tips in our blog: 10 ways to keep warm this winter
The Essentials of English Country Gentleman Clothing
To master the country gentleman look, consider investing in these classic pieces:Tattersall Shirts – Iconic British countryside pattern with wool-blend options for warmth
Corduroy or Moleskin Trousers – Durable and warm, perfect for town or field
Lambswool Knitwear – Soft, warm and always in style
Bodywarmers & Quilted Gilets – Layer-friendly and practical
Flat Caps – Functional and stylish finishing touches
Leather Footwear – Rugged, well-made shoes or boots built to last
Smart Accessories – Ties, scarves and gloves with traditional flair
Our Dedication to Preserving British Heritage
James Meade is British-based and British-designed. We pull our inspiration from the vast and varied landscapes and weather patterns we call home in the lake district. To celebrate the social fabric of British tailoring is something we take immense pride in, each fisherman jumper we knit and tattersall shirt we sew, we hope to share the rich tapestry that makes up country clothing.
James Meade: Trusted by Generations
In a world of fast fashion, finding traditional English fashion that truly lasts can be a challenge. That’s why our customers return to James Meade season after season, for exceptional quality, comfortable fits, and outstanding service.Our free returns policy means you can shop with confidence. If something’s not quite right, simply send it back, no questions asked.
Visit the James Meade Mens Clothing and view the full selection of Traditional Men’s Clothing.
