Purdey has long been a name to know when heading out for a day of fresh country air. An authority on sporting pursuits and British craftsmanship, James Purdey & Sons has a rich history, boasting some truly impressive clientele, including two Royal Warrants: testament to its fine artistry, attention to detail and expertise.

Expanding into the world of clothing in the early 1970s with a collection of refined shooting wear and apparel for the field, Purdey is not a fashion name, per se. But as its autumn/winter collection, The Sporting Life, blurs the lines between city chic and country, the brand seems to have set its sights on high-end rural fashion with a sartorial celebration of Purdey’s sumptuous craftsmanship, formal tweeds and traditional style through reimaginings of its classic designs.

Full of chequered prints, cashmere blends and technical finishes, this season’s outerwear is unmistakably Purdey, imbued with elements of innovation and a contemporary elegance. Dubbed a ‘very British duffle coat’, the Felgate is a tribute to Purdey’s gunmaking heritage. Cut in a checked Shetland wool and fastened with toggles crafted in walnut, the wood of choice for Purdey gun stocks, the design is etched with the mark of the Purdey gunmakers. Unexpected pieces come in the form of voluminous capes, stitched entirely by hand in cashmere. The Double Face scarf cape is the epitome of elevated country style, offering feminine flair and taking the brand in the direction of designers such as Jil Sander and Maison Margiela.

A tribute to the brand’s past, the collection wouldn’t be complete without sport-inspired tailoring. Masters in the art of rural leisure, Purdey presents hand-tailored pieces traditionally worn for riding and shooting, and refines them with beautifully soft merino cashmere and pure double-face camel hair. There are also leather under-collars and ticket pockets as a subtle nod to the brand’s history producing leather luggage.

The essence of refined comfort, luxurious knitwear – new in the autumn/winter collection – accompanies the tailored outerwear. Authentic jacquard cardigans, cashmere skirts and peplum crew sweaters are knitted in relaxed, earthy tones, with exaggerated cable stitches for a cosy fit. Paired with a kilt-style skirt or chinos, Purdey’s autumn/winter knitwear collection elevates leisurewear, transporting the brand from the fields of the countryside to the stylish city streets.

Also new is a twist on black tie. Estate Evening, the season’s formal collection, conjures up old Scottish glamour, with a touch of the Highlands residing in the dark and moody colour palette of black, midnight and bottle-green. Black Watch tartans in fine weaves are cut into familiar styles such as the Duke jacket, Town & Country coat and Trench cape.

‘Ultimately, “being more Purdey” is a combination of respecting traditions, appreciating excellence and world-class craftsmanship,’ says first female board member, and seventh generation member of the Purdey family, Annika Purdey. ‘Enjoying classic British luxury style, striving to be the best you can be, while keeping a keen eye on the future.’

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