Affordable, last minute outfit inspo for The Game Fair 2022

🌿 The Game Fair 🌿

29th – 31st July 2022

Country fashion is booming!
More than ever, making a statement with good style at an event is at the forefront of peoples minds! It is such an exciting time to get dressed up and pick out an outfit!

Whilst there is the excitement of picking an outfit. This can also be stressful.
Are you feeling the overwhelming urge to spend spend spend to compete with the Country style on the day?
Looking at social media at outfits made up of £1000’s?
Well… never fear. Your girl has your back. I understand it can feel daunting with so many posts of what may seem like unachievable outfit goals. It can be so easy for people to put together what feels like unachievable outfits, often that they themselves don’t even own. Whilst these outfits can look incredibly beautiful, they aren’t always realistic to recreate with every wardrobe.

Well … I am bringing you some ways to change up your wardrobe, without having to spend too much!

If it’s your first time to The Game Fair, why not catch up on my round up from last year – The Game Fair 2021 . It is such a fantastic event, which I have attended for SO many years – so I would like to think I have a good idea about what is practical and not on the day!

P.S… if you’re looking for the Best Dressed Lady tips and tricks – scroll down! ⤵️

The Game Fair Dress Code:

Luckily, there isn’t one!!! The beautiful thing about The Game Fair is that you really can wear what you want. Whether you love dressing up, or prefer keeping things casual, whatever your style – you WILL fit in! What do I always say ladies – the best thing you can wear is confidence. Feeling good and confident in your outfit is the best way to look good, and that has to be in an outfit you believe in, in a style that you feel comfortable in!

– An Unwritten Dress Code –

Now, whilst I said there was no dress code, with any event, there’s always an unwritten one! Whilst Country Fashion is continually adapting and evolving, with people now becoming more daring than ever with pushing the classic Country style, there will always be typical outfits that people will go for!

The unwritten dress code for so many at this type of Country event would be a pair of Fairfax & Favor boots or deck shoes, white skinny jeans, a shirt, schoffel and fedora.

L-R: Schoffel | Rydale | Joules | Fairfax & Favor

Another really classic style for Country Girls is a white dress. Now if you know anything about me, you’ll know I am somewhat OBSESSED with white dresses! I cannot get enough, and I probably have enough to last me the full season of Country shows. Team with classic F&F Regina boots, deck shoes or loafers, and matching accessories, and you just can’t go too far wrong.

For a slightly different Country style, sticking with the Schoffel, tweeds and boots is also a style you won’t be able to avoid at The Game Fair. Whether it’s tweed skirts or tweed jackets, tweed will always rule the Country shows, so if you have some already, now is the perfect time to get it back out, instead of buying new!

Whilst these outfits are the ‘traditional’ style, the Game Fair has become more and more of a catwalk for Country Fashion than ever before!

Where to start with outfit inspo:

Sometimes knowing where to start can be tricky, but the main place to start would be your own wardrobe. Before buying anything new, have a really good look at what you already have. There will be lots of items in your wardrobe which you can repurpose for the event. It can be really easy to tweak a piece of clothing or accessory to change it up. Have a look at my information below for some top tips, and budget friendly finds!

{disclaimer: please note, every reader will be shopping to a different budget and this is simply to draw attention to a variety of options to wear on the day!}

✨Tops✨

Having a wardrobe of basic, staple tops is a really good place to start. Whether it’s a white shirt, go to navy long sleeve, or a beloved wax jacket, every wardrobe needs those core pieces which you can build your outfits from. The likelihood is, that if you look in your wardrobe you will already have a suitable top, jacket and gilet. Unless you are working with a statement jacket or top, I would leave this until you have figured out your bottoms first! If you don’t have some basic neutral tops, this is a great place to start when trying to build a capsule wardrobe that will carry you through every occasion.

Blouses / shirts – For a classic country style at a show or Game Fair, you simply cannot go wrong with a blouse or shirt. This essential works perfectly under anything from a wax jacket to a schoffel gilet. Commonly at these type of events, you’ll see a classic white shirt, with some sort of Country print. These prints allow you to show off your unique style, whilst still maintaining a classic style. If you prefer something a little more plain, opting for white, baby pink or baby blue is a great option.

Budget friendly blouse linked – click here!

Budget friendly shirt linked – click here!

Tops – If a blouse or shirt isn’t quite what your style, opting for an easy top is just as good. Depending on the weather, I’ve worn sleeveless roll necks, as well as just plain tops and jumpers. Everybody should already have a plain, neutral top in their wardrobe, so you will always have something to start with! Creams, browns and navy, as well as bright pastels and bold colours work really well for a Country show. I would try to avoid a plain black top if possible!

Budget friendly top linked – click here!

Jackets – The Game Fair does have a tendency for showers! So it’s a great idea to pack a lightweight jacket. Even if you decide to leave it in the car, there’s nothing worse than travelling to an all day event, getting there, and getting soaked! Whilst the weather is currently looking good next weekend, we do still live in England, and anything is possible. My top suggestion would be a trusty wax jacket. Haven’t got one? Have a look at my link below for an absolute steal!
If you don’t want to pack a jacket, why not try a lightweight poncho, these are easy to pack, and still offer that additional layer.

Budget friendly jacket linked – click here!

Gilets – This is a given isn’t it. A schoffel gilet is the unwritten Country uniform. If you already own one, it’s probably going to be making an appearance at the show as part of your outfit, let’s be honest. If you don’t though, there are lots of other fleece gilet options if this is the sort of style you are wanting to go for, but on a smaller budget. A gilet is the perfect addition to your outfit, handy pockets to keep your phone and keys in, whilst offering some added warmth should you need it. This will forever be a key element of Country style – so if you want to look the part – this is a good piece to consider!

Budget friendly gilet linked – click here!

🛍 Exhibitors to look out for at the event: Ella & Cherry, Ginger & Jardine, Welligogs, Whale of a Time Clothing 🛍

✨Bottoms✨

You can’t get very far without these, and these are more likely to be a statement piece than your top or jacket. Consider first and foremost the weather, it’s a long day to be outside walking round if you aren’t dressed suitably. When you think of a Country show, if you’re anything like me, probably the first thing you think of is tweed, so if this is the case for you, a tweed skirt may be a good place to start. If you already own one, try changing up your top and accessories to create a fresh outfit using clothes you already own. If a skirt isn’t quite your style, opt for white jeans, or try statement coloured jeans for a daring Country look!

Skirts – Tweed is the automatic choice here, so if you already own a tweed skirt, you can’t really go wrong styling this! Team with a shirt and some boots or deck shoes, and you have a simple but effective outfit which was really easy to piece together. Herringbone or plain wool skirts can also work well in neutral colour ways. If you are opting for tights, always remember black or navy tights with the matching colour footwear, or neutral tights for any other footwear colour. Avoid dark tights with light footwear, eg black tights and tan shoes.

Budget friendly skirt linked – click here!

Jeans – If you don’t want to wear a skirt, or the weather isn’t quite right, jeans are a great option. Now don’t let the weather fool you, even in the rain you’ll see plenty of people in white jeans. If white jeans aren’t your style though, opting for navy or black is a safe bet. Should you wish to push the style boundaries, opt for some coloured jeans instead. Browns, reds, pinks and greens are commonly seen and worn across Game Fairs and Country Shows – this goes for the men too!! Everyone owns jeans in some form, so if you aren’t looking to spend anything on your outfit – start with a comfortable pair of jeans you already own, and work around your outfit from there!

Budget friendly jeans linked – click here!

🛍 Exhibitors to look out for at the event: Holland Cooper, Joules, Waring Brooke 🛍

✨Footwear✨

Footwear HAS to be comfortable – this isn’t a tip, it’s rule. It’s uneven ground, often wet, the last thing you need is sore feet that you are having to tip toe around on. `I would always recommend taking plasters with you in your bag, you never know if you, or something you’re with, may just need them! If your shoes do rub, you’d kick yourself if you didn’t have any. As I mentioned above, it is also good to be mindful of your tights colour if you are wearing them. Opt for neutral tights with neutral shoes, black tights with black shoes and navy tights with navy shoes – this helps to elongate your legs and create a seamless look.

Wellies – Wellies are such a great option if the ground is damp or wet, and they won’t look out of place at all! Many people will opt for these as their Game Fair footwear, and you can see why. They are often the most comfortable pair of shoes we own, and they are really practical for the day ahead. They will also match any outfit – so if you want to wear yours – go ahead!!

Budget friendly wellies linked – click here!

Boots – This is probably the most obvious choice for the Game Fair. Whether its your favourite tall suede boots with matching tassels, or a short pair of ankle boots – whatever your style, boots are a practical option, and a great piece that you may already have in your wardrobe. I have always said in this blog that investing in good footwear really is worth it. So if you’ve got a pair of boots to hand, get those out and get styling them! Top tip – if your boots have tassels and you want to change up your outfit – why not try a new pair of tassels!

Budget friendly boots linked – click here!

Shoes – Deck shoes and loafers will be plentiful at the Game Fair, and are another really great option to go for. If you already own these, this is your best option, as you don’t want to be breaking in ANY footwear during the Game Fair – any shoes which may rub are a no for me!

Budget friendly shoes linked – click here!

🛍 Exhibitors to look out for at the event: Fairfax & Favor, Nicola Sexton, Bredon Hill Shooting 🛍

✨Accessories✨

Accessories are so powerful, and have the ability to really dress an outfit up or down, they can also make or break an outfit – so there is lots to consider here! Accessories should be practical and fun, and they should always add ‘something’ to your outfit – otherwise what’s the point! Use accessories to tie the colours in your outfit together, to finish off the look, or to create a show stopping element to a more simple, neutral outfit.

Hats – In my opinion, a hat is an essential for your Game Fair outfit! They finish off the Country look perfectly, as well as being extremely practical, helping protect your hair and face from the elements of the day – rain or shine! A fedora is perfect styling all year round, so don’t shy away just because its summer, and if you have a lightweight summer fedora -even better! If you already have a fedora, try tying a scarf round the base of the hat, above the rim, or using a statement hat pin to change the look. Both of these are simple ways to change up a fedora hat you may often wear.

Budget friendly hat linked – click here!

Budget friendly hat pin linked – click here!

Belts – Belts are a great way to add a subtle colour or print to your outfit, or pairing one with matching accessories will create a really sleek look! Not only are belts practical, they have become such a key feature of outfits, and they have the ability to transform an outfit. It is through the little accessories that you are able to make your outfits your own! If you have invested in a good quality belt – wear it! No doubt you will have chosen a colour that will match an array of outfits, so choose this and team with a matching colour bag – if you can make the footwear tie in too – bonus!!

Budget friendly belt linked – click here!

Bags – Now for the Game Fair it is important that your bag isn’t too heavy if you need to carry it round all day, but also that it can fit all the essentials in. Now I am so guilty of overpacking for any occasion – a clutch bag is usually a struggle for me! Something with a cross body or shoulder strap is ideal so that you don’t have to carry it in your hand all day. Make sure everything fits in your bag comfortably. I would rather pick a bag that slightly doesn’t match my outfit, but has everything I need, than compromise on something I might need – it’s a long day!!

Budget friendly bag linked – click here!

Jewellery – Perfect for Country shows and Game Fairs, anything which ties into Country or classic theming. Any snaffle or equestrian jewellery as well as classic pearls would be a must for me. Now I love silver jewellery, but you can take your pick, I would say that the jewellery probably won’t be the talking point of your outfit, unless you are wearing something really show stopping, so don’t worry too much! Stick to your classic jewellery and if you can add a Country twist to it – even better!

Budget friendly jewellery linked – click here!

🛍 Exhibitors to look out for at the event: Bethany Rae, County Equestrian Jewellers, Fable England, Hi-Ho Silver, Hicks & Hides, Mackenzie & George, 🛍

Creating a show stopping Style:

Showstopping outfits are not owed to an individual idem, but the individual who is wearing its ability to pull together an outfit. When thinking about a show stopping Game Fair outfit, all elements of an outfit combined must be considered.

From the top down, for me a large hatpin and fedora is a must. This is such an easy way to draw attention to a special outfit. A large hatpin will speak for itself, and can easily turn a plain outfit into something special. If you are wearing a neutral outfit, why not offset with a coloured fedora – there are so many beautiful colours out there now – you could use this as the colour pop for your outfit!

I have worn many bold and bright shirts and tops in the past. Last year my Game Fair outfits really played on the Orange colours – and they are such fun. Playing it safe is great when making a good outfit, but if you want a showstopper, often you’ll need to push the boundaries with colours, prints and style to create something which stands out from the crowd.

I recommend using tweed skirts or white jeans as part of your outfit. They have an easy way of tying into any Country outfit, and usually you’ll have one of these in your wardrobe already to utilise. Teaming this with a pair of boots is the easiest way to create a classic Country look. If you have boots with tassels, even better! Utilise the tassels as a way of tying the colours in your outfit together.

Using your final accessories is a great way to finish off the look. Matching belts and bags to your boots is a seamless finish to your outfit. Otherwise, use your belt and bag as a way to tie in some more colour into your outfit. This could be a really striking or bold colour. It won’t feel too overdone if it is present through your accessories.

The most important thing with any show stopping outfit is … CONFIDENCE. Whatever you choose to wear, if you love it, show that to the world. Honestly when they say confidence is the best thing you can wear, its true!! Confidence shines off women like nothing else. So pick your favourite outfit, and get out there and show it off. I believe in you! You WILL look fantastic!

The Best Dressed Ladies Competition 2022:

The first day of The Game Fair welcomes back the annual Ladies Day. This day is the perfect day to dress up, show off your favourite statement outfit, and dress to impress. There will be scouts looking for the most fabulously dressed woman throughout Friday morning, inviting those best-dressed ladies for the final judging.

The best dressed ladies competition is sponsored by Welligogs, and the final judging will take place at their stand at 2pm. Should you wish to take part, but were not spotted during the morning, simply turn up to the Welligogs stand in time for the judging, and you too can be included!

There is a £1,000 Wellgogs gift voucher, as well as prizes from Mackenzie & George on offer – it really isn’t toe be missed if you are attending on the Friday!

🌟Top Tips 🌟

The best thing ANYONE can wear is …. CONFIDENCE! – pick something you feel confident and comfortable in.
A good tip – if you’re wearing a statement outfit, tone down the accessories, if you’re making a statement with your accessories, tone down the outfit.
Try on your outfit before the day – something I am guilty of NOT doing. Planning ahead can help there to be less stress on the day – you’ll already know you are happy with how everything looks that way.
Look for originality in your outfits. Letting your personality shine through is key in these competitions.
Don’t be afraid of adding in colour, this is a great opportunity to add a pop of colour through your outfit or accessories.
Be creative, and make your outfit your own. Everyone can shop at the same places – but no one can imitate your unique style! Use accessories, layering pieces or your footwear to finish off your look.
Dress for the weather – it’s a long day if you’re too hot, too cold, soaking wet or have the wrong footwear on! It’s hard to have confidence in your outfit if it’s been planned for the opposite type of weather!
Going for a fedora hat? Utilise a hatpin to tie your outfit colours together, or create a real statement through a large, bold hatpin design.
Don’t forget, it isn’t about the latest trends or most expensive items – it is about finding and styling a unique but timeless outfit.
Items not to forget: Sunglasses, a suitably sized bag, comfortable footwear.

If you don’t already follow my social media pages, be sure to check these out for even more outfit inspo!

That’s all for now my Darlings…. BUT believe it or not, there is another blog scheduled this week! Tomorrow evening yet another blog will go live, and if you’re going to The Game Fair – you won’t want to miss it!!!

I’ll see you then!

Lots of love, Lucinda xo

The best thing you can wear is confidence!
– unknown