I always fail in the stakes to wear something pretty I can photograph in a pretty location when I go for walks. I see fellow bloggers who walk in wonderful ensembles that are somehow practical* yet stylish and fun. I don't seem to be able to do that. I guess, for me, that is a secondary factor. The main reason I want to go is to walk! Anything else is incidental. Thus, you won't really find me wearing anything particularly note-worthy when I walk. I have to wear something that I don't mind getting muddy since I am clumsy and am inclined to slip in mud or splodge with mud-spray as I wend my way along. It's a bonus if it is ever remotely stylish!
Walking in the South Tyne trail on a fairly sunny, but still early Spring day, here's one example of what I might wear.
1. Loose-fitting ideally. I don't like the thought of sweating in something tight!
2. Layers- my coat and cardigan go on and off like a yo-yo depending on the gradient of the walk.
3. Ideally a light cardigan so if it is warm, I still have protection from sunburn on my shoulders. Nothing thick or woolly for me- I get too hot too easily, even in the winter.
4. Hat. Always a hat. There is never a time I regret not taking a hat on a walk. In the summer, a straw hat- light but sun-protection but well-fitting enough not to float from my head on a high-up ridge walk. Winter, a beret that can go over my ears or a warmer hat like a beanie or deerstalker.
5. Walking boots/shoes- as aforementioned, I am clumsy. The last time I went walking in trainers on the Cat's Back in Herefordshire, I slipped down 5 times and ended up covered in mud. No matter what, I need to wear walking boots/shoes. Occasionally I have worn wellies but I can't feel totally comfortable, secure or confident in them, not enough control!
6. Usually trousers- fairly light-weight sun protection. I usually wear a pair of light cotton flares from French Connection I found in a charity shop. Totally unglamorous but light and substantial at the same time and roll-upable and easy to wash. Can't stand the feeling of tight-trousers either!
7. SOMETHING slightly colourful and quirky so I don't feel TOO like an extra from the Cotswolds Outdoors catalogue. In this case- navy and red polka-dot top (loose-fitting and thin) and a reversible polka dot scarf. Everything in this outfit except the walking shoes (from Mountain Warehouse) and beret (hand-crocheted by Mum) was from a charity shop. I don't own PROPER walking clothing- you know, the kind bought in Milletts/Blacks.
8. Bank card, £5, camera, phone and hand sanitizer- for emergencies. We forgot water- doh!
9. A coat of some sort. In the winter, it has to be waterproof. No way am I wearing a glamorous coat out in the country. In the summer, I keep a light mac in my bag but I WOULD like a waterproof one as opposed to my showerproof one. Still not got one as being fussy as would love a slightly pretty or fun one whilst being practical. Seasalt Cornwall is still in my steely-glaz.
10. A good sense of humour. I was a grumpy cow for part of a lovely walk with CBC last week and it doesn't help make the walk enjoyable and light and free. In the picture though, though I look unimpressed, I was having a fun light-heated time with CBC and WOMOMTM!
What are your criteria for a good walking outfit?
xxx
All the photos were taken by WOMOTM, my father-in-law
*Ok, so occasionally,they aren't totally practical...