Blog written by Country Girls UKs Hayley Varney for their recent Blog Page
When it comes to country clothing, especially shooting attire for women, options are already limited. If you’re a curvier or plus-size woman, finding stylish, functional options can feel nearly impossible.
Hayley wears Chocolate Tweed Thermal Leggings
As part of The Country Girls UK community, a network of over 400 women, I often hear the same question: “Where can I find shooting clothing that fits and flatters a curvier figure?” Sadly, it’s a question we still struggle to answer.
Hayley wears Chocolate Tweed Thermal Leggings
To put things into perspective, the average dress size for women in the UK is a size 16, yet fashion brands often classify a size 10 and up as “plus-size.” Add to that the fact that women’s bodies naturally fluctuate, due to monthly cycles, pregnancy, and menopause and it’s clear that women deserve a more inclusive approach to sizing.
Whether it’s for everyday use, a special occasion, or a hobby like shooting, every woman has a unique body journey that should be celebrated and supported. Larger brands, in particular, need to step up. A recent experience drove this point home: during a simulated shooting day last summer, my gorgeous peg partner wore a beautiful shooting vest that I was eager to ask about. But to my surprise, she explained that, despite being a size 8, she had to size up to a 16 just to make it work! Sized up 4 sizes!! And it’s not just jackets or vests. In countless Facebook groups, women with larger calves share frustrating stories about squeezing into popular boot brands that simply aren’t made to fit them. When you’re spending £400+ on boots, they should be a perfect fit, comfortably without resorting to hair dryers, plastic bags, or tricks with wet newspaper.
I’m incredibly grateful for smaller brands like The Country Girls UK, Ginger and Jardine, and Foxy Pheasant, for whom I’m an ambassador. They go the extra mile to cater to us curvier plus-sized ladies with their inclusive extended size ranges.
Yes, custom-made country attire is an option, but with costs ranging between £800 and £1500 for a tailored vest and breeks, it’s far from affordable for most.
Hayley is wearing Foxy Pheasant Thermal Game Tweed Leggings
So, if you’re curvy or plus-size and love country fashion, here are a few tips to help you navigate this tricky landscape.
High-Street Finds & Supermarket Brands
High-street shops and supermarket brands have stepped up their game in recent years, offering more size-inclusive options. Right now, you can find pretty blouses with bird prints and even tweed accents, ideal for adding a countryside flair to your wardrobe.
Second-Hand Treasures
Check out platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Vinted for second-hand finds. These are great places to discover items from brands that may no longer be around. For instance, I found a beautiful shooting waistcoat from Gamebirds, a beloved company that’s sadly no longer in business. (And yes, I’m still on the lookout for other colours!) Recycling clothes is much better for the environment too!
The Men’s Section
Men’s clothing can occasionally be a good alternative if you prefer a looser fit, allowing room for layers without restricting movement. Many women’s jackets are tailored to fit snugly, which isn’t always practical for activities like shooting, so a men’s jacket might just be the solution.
Accessorize for a Feminine Touch
From hair accessories, brooches and scarves to ties, there are countless ways to add a feminine flair to your outfit. Accessories can make all the difference in personalising your look and making it feel like you.
Hayley is wearing Thermal Game Tweed Leggings
Some of my favourite Country Fashion / Shooting Clothing items.
Joules Blouses/shirts – size 6 – 26
Ginger and Jardine Roll neck tops – size XS – 3XL
Schöffel knitted Jumper with shoulder and elbow patches – size 8 – 22
The Country Girls UK Gilet – size XS – 3XL
Beretta Shooting Vest (mens) – size XXS – 5XL
Foxy Pheasant Leggings – size 8 – 26 (use code MISSHAYV)
Beretta Lightweight Jacket (mens) – size S – 3XL
House of Cheviot Shooting Socks Lady Harris range for curvier calves from On the Peg Clothing
Aigle Wellies Parcours – size 5 – 15 (also 1/2 sizes)
Accessories
Schöffel Tweed cap
Foxy Pheasant Hair scrunchies (use code MISSHAYV)
Foxy Pheasant Tie (use code MISSHAYV)
Clare Haggas Scarf
If you have any tips or great clothing recommendations for curvy / plus size ladies in the country, I would love to hear your thoughts on this blog also, please email Hayley at admin@thecountrygirlsuk.com
Thank you Hayley for including us in your blog.
