This time of year always brings with it that new start feel – the leaves are starting to turn autumnal, there’s a freshness in the air, shoot days are filling our weekends again and wardrobes are ready to welcome knitwear back in. We’re not quite ready to embrace the chunkiest of knits yet though, all in good time. Instead, this is the perfect time of year for light cashmere, merino and wool, plaid shirts that are made for layering, ribbed cardigans that double as outerwear, and padded jackets and ponchos that can be thrown on and off with ease following the whims of the weather.
As we move between seasons, the unpredictability (otherwise known as classic nature of) British weather calls for classic attire. Combining heritage styles with innovative materials and neat design details, our latest lifestyle pieces are smart, versatile and adaptable to all environments. Whether you’re out for a walk with the dog, working in town or spending time in the countryside with friends, these pieces are made with autumn in mind.
Transeasonal outerwear
In both mens and womenswear, the Winchester Quilted Jacket sees an evolution in walnut-coloured technical cotton that will successfully keep the rain off, with super lightweight HD wool wadding – which regulates temperature as the weather changes – corduroy details and Purdey snap fastenings. It’s one of our most versatile outdoor pieces, the ideal weight and style for layering. The corresponding Cambridge Quilted Gilet comes in matching walnut and as with all of the quilted pieces, the wool is sustainably sourced in the UK, keeping you warm when it’s cool and vice versa.
The cape is a silhouette that we look to every autumn, a Purdey signature that stands out from the crowd and is something you'll wear time and time again, as effortless as it is a luxurious statement piece. The Carrington Cape is one of our newest styles, a silhouette that turns the volume up compared to previous seasons. In soft, mid-weight wool cashmere and a neutral stone colour, it can be dressed up or down with almost any outfit. The Wellbeck Poncho, reversible with a checked artwork on one side, is another elegant and practical top layer to keep handy at all times.
Layering knits
Then there’s the Devonshire Cardigan, a hybrid that combines the aforementioned quilted outerwear with a knit, super versatile and ideal for everyday wear. The Orkney ribbed zip-front cardigan in lambswool, with an internal lining, also cleverly walks the indoor-outdoor line. As does the women’s Rosebank Cashmere Tweed Cardigan, more structured than its slouchier counterparts, the Anabel Cashmere Linen Roll Neck and merino-cashmere Clifford Ribbed Cardigan. These knits are our new favourites for late summer evenings and crisp autumn days, reassuringly substantial without being too heavy.
The potential for layering is always front of mind when putting together our collections; and this season’s lighter blends of cotton-cashmere, merino and cashmere-linen bring versatility and breathability in abundance. Lightweight merinos in men’s and womenswear are the knits that you’ll wear all year-round; while the textured Hertford Herringbone Crew Neck breaks up the neutrals and makes transeasonal dressing easy. Not forgetting the Travel Merino Crew Neck and Polo Shirt – specifically designed for ease on the move, they’re a great layer even if you’re staying exactly where you are.
Shirts for all occasions
Our shirts are the foundations upon which every good outfit is built, in materials that wear well and keep you smart and comfortable all day long. Checked styles abound, with heavier weights making the perfect mid-layer pieces. Taking the Merino Field Shirt for example, made entirely from Merino wool it offers comfort and warmth without compromising on breathability, thanks to the mesh vented back. Cotton styles are perfect for warmer days, too; while materials like Flannel and Chambray will expand your relaxed shirt collection for more casual occasions.
Throughout the collection you’ll notice the ‘JP’ monogram, developed from an evening slipper found in the depths of the archive at Audley House. Whether a subtle emblem on our knitwear this season, embroidered onto the cuff or collar of our shirts, or carved into some of the domed horned buttons, it adds refined Purdey gravitas to every style.
Shop our latest arrivals, here.