What to wear when gardening this summer

As “allotment chic” has been touted as a latest fashion trend, with high-fashion houses like Dior and Hermès having incorporated horticultural features into their runway shows, perfecting your gardening look has never been so pertinent.

Of course, hardy gardeners know that nothing beats wearing the appropriate clothes for comfort, durability and ease of movement, which usually results in an old pair of denim shorts and a T-shirt that predates Tony Blair’s time in office.

But this intertwining of fashion and gardening has stirred up a storm on social media, with influencers showcasing their green thumbs and stylish gardening attire on platforms like TikTok, and even prioritising events like the Chelsea Flower Show over traditional fashion weeks.

So if you’re a style-conscious horticulturist, here’s how to cultivate a great outfit while gardening this summer.

Light in fabric but not in colour

“Practicality is key when gardening,” says Cotswold-based gardening and fashion creator Josie Irons, “but there’s nothing wrong with looking and feeling fabulous while you’re tending to your blooms!”

Her go-to is a strappy, lightweight dress, “probably one that’s a few years old and already has a scuff or two on it, but most importantly, one that washes well!”

White may be a summer favourite, but not in the seed beds. “Even though I love to wear white usually, I’ll avoid lighter colours if I’m sowing seeds or doing any digging,” Irons says.

H&M Denim Bermuda Shorts, £22.99

Know your fabrics and fibres

Fabric matters – especially in high summer. “Polyester is a no-no,” says Irons, “not only from an environmental point of view but also because it’s not breathable; so you’ll be getting seriously toasty and uncomfortable on hot days.”

Seasalt Cornwall Earth Colours Kaftan Dress in GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton Voile, £69.95

What to wear on your feet

Footwear often falls into the ‘functional’ category when it comes to gardening – but that doesn’t mean style always has to suffer.

“I’m always dashing in and out of the house, so something that I can slip on and off easily is essential at this time of year,” says Irons.

And while she loves to be barefoot in the garden – there’s a good alternative if you want some more protection: “The next best thing are my slip-on Vivobarefoot trainers which are my go-to gardening shoes.”

Barbour Quinn Ladies Clog, £39.95 (was £44.95), William Powell

A lot lies in the accessories

Spending long days in flowerbeds means sun protection is non-negotiable, but there’s no harm in looking good while staying safe.

“Accessories are essential!” insists Irons, “a billowy blouse over your shoulders offers great protection, while a sun hat and sunglasses will provide comfort and style.”

If you sport your jewellery while doing all odd jobs, there are some pieces you may want to take off.

Zara Printed Top with Cutwork Embroidery, £27.99

From trug to table 

You may not want to head straight from compost to cocktails – but a swift refresh is sometimes all it takes.

“I must say, I tend to do a quick outfit change if I’m transitioning to a lunch or supper with friends; you simply can’t beat that feeling of a fresh shower after you’ve worked hard in the garden for a few hours,” says Irons.

Daisy Jewellery Double Daisy Flower Earrings, £99

Best brands for the garden

“My lightweight dresses and linen shorts more often than not are affordable options from H&M,” she says, as it’s crucial not to be precious while pottering about in flowerbeds.

Because as any fashionable gardener will know: the best outfits are less about labels and more about what survives a run-in with a rose bush.