The sun is intermittently shining, the blossoms are out, the clocks have changed in the UK and we are fully in the midst of spring. And, while it may be off-season for shooting here (though our Sporting Agency is still enjoying trips further afield; and Purdey at the Royal Berkshire is open for those looking to refine their skills), it’s new season time for the Purdey Spring / Summer 2024 collection.
This collection is made for those who love the great outdoors as much as we do. It tells stories of British makers, and welcomes warmer days ahead – though, the pieces make equally good layers in all weathers. As ever, the Purdey benchmark is clear in classic timeless styles and craftsmanship that exudes attention to detail, quality and practicality.
There’s ultra-light outerwear made from the finest of fabrics, knitwear inspired by vintage stitches of the Scottish Isles and shirts in breezy linens, cottons and silks. These are pieces that will take you from one occasion to next, whether shopping in town or enjoying a long weekend in the countryside. A visit to Audley House to try them on for size is highly recommended, but until then, let’s hone in on a few SS24 favourites.
In menswear, it’s all about the springtime jackets. A good wax jacket – such as the Latch Coat, with clasps inspired by vintage firemen’s jackets; or The Range, in a new cotton-linen fabricated in Scotland – is a classic for a reason. As is the Padded option, in technical cotton that keeps you cool and dry. Essentially, the brief here is light enough to throw on as the weather starts to warm up, reliable enough for the inevitable showers that punctuate any given day.
As we move into the summer months, linen comes into its own, exemplified by the Ravenscourt Jacket’s relaxed tailored cut. And for layering knits that work with every outfit: the merino Audley Cardigan (in a deep loden green that suits everyone); or the Rosehall Estate Jumper, in versatile lightweight cashmere, made in and inspired by the heritage patterns of Scotland.
In womenswear, this season’s outerwear is exceptional. The Hanover Trench Coat is an investment for years to come, classic cashmere-wool houndstooth woven in Scotland, with a water-resistant membrane and soft jersey backing, as practical as it is beautiful. For those with a penchant for capes, the Spring / Summer version of the Connaught delivers, in voluminous (but crucially lighter) double-face wool-cashmere with a leather belt and Purdey Rose & Scroll buttons. The Welbeck Poncho makes a strong sweeping statement too, Prince of Wales check on one side, plain camel on the other, hand-finished with a blanket stitch – it’s one to pack for summer picnics.
Light summer alternatives to classic field jackets make the most of linen-cotton: the Wilton with a subtle herringbone; and the Linen, with a dry wax finish and draw-string waist. Linen is also the material of choice for the new Oxford Stripe Dress, an effortless summer piece. And for layering with all of the above, the textured cotton-cashmere Aran Tank or Cable Knit Sweater would be perfect.
There are silk scarves, super-lightweight sweaters and cardigans, relaxed-fit trousers, linen shirts and more besides. Explore the latest pieces in our collection, here.