Bougie or Bargain: Getting the Country Look Without the Price Tag

Helen
Sep 9
3 min read

Updated: Sep 11

Country wear collage with a brown hat, bags, boots, navy vest. Text says "Bougie or Budget Country Wear Edition" in center.

Being a lover of British country wear can be expensive. The well-known and much-loved brands we see on social media often come with a hefty price tag — even in the sales.

I’ve seen countless comments in online groups from people who adore the look but can’t always afford to splurge on the latest season’s pieces or sturdy wardrobe staples. As much a fan of budget finds as I am of bougie buys, I wanted to explore how you can still enjoy that classic country style without the big spend. If you don’t need the technical features of certain garments and are mainly after the aesthetic, there are plenty of great-value alternatives out there. Here’s my guide to some of my favourite budget-friendly swaps and getting the country look without the price tag.

Dubarry Galway Boots

Two pairs of brown boots labeled "Bougie" and "Budget" against a two-tone background. The left boot is upright, the right pair is one up, one down.

If there’s one item I couldn’t live without, it’s my Dubarry Galway Boots. I’ve owned several pairs over the years in different colours, and they’re my everyday boot — waterproof, comfortable and built to last. But at £380 a pair (and rarely discounted), they’re not cheap.

If you want the look without the spend, consider the Rhinegold BEAUMONT Unisex Country Boots. They’re waterproof, insulated and priced under £90. For a lighter option, the Rhinegold Country Boots come in at £70. Both are solid alternatives if you’re not ready to splash out.

Schoffel Gilet

Two navy vests with brown trim on a split background. "Bougie" on left with seamless zip, "Budget" on right with visible zip pull.

The Schoffel Gilet is another classic, retailing at around £160. It took me years to finally buy one, but before that I had two great options that delivered the same look and performance, the JACK PYKE Ladies Countryman Thermal Fleece Gilet – £32.95 and the Rydale Ladies Huggate Waistcoat – £44.99.

Both give you the classic countryside feel at a fraction of the cost.

Le Chameau Wellies

Two pairs of boots on a split background. Left: labeled "Bougie," green boots with blue lining. Right: labeled "Budget," brown boots.

Le Chameau wellies are as much a fashion statement as they are practical, with styles costing anywhere from £180 to £380. I bought the Chasseur neoprene-lined boots (£330) to help with Reynard’s Disease — and while they are cosy and comfortable, they’re pricey.

For a similar look and function, the Rydale Neoprene Lined Wellington Boots (£66.99) are hard to beat.

Hicks & Brown Hats

Two brown hats with feathers are shown side by side. The left is labeled "Bougie" and the right "Budget," set against a split background.

You can’t go to a shoot, The Game Fair or Cheltenham Races without spotting a Hicks & Brown Fedora. Stylish, yes, but at £115 they’re not exactly budget-friendly.

The Rydale Wool Felt Fedora is £49.99 and gives almost the same look for less than half the price.

Fairfax & Favor Boots

Brown knee-high boots comparison; left labeled Bougie, right labeled Budget. Beige background with wavy division, showcasing subtle style differences.

It’s not my birthday or Christmas without at least one Fairfax & Favor voucher. I love their products — especially their boots — and their marketing is outstanding. But the look doesn’t always have to cost £400.

Rydale Spanish Riding Boots – £158.99, very similar to the flat Regina.

SJJH Women’s Knee High Boots – £38.99, a vegan-friendly option with the elegant Regina heel.

Timberland Boots – a great alternative to the Boudica. In fact, my Fairfax Boudicas had to be replaced twice — so next time, I’ll choose Timberland.

Quilted Gilets

Two quilted vests on a split beige background; left titled "Bougie," navy with crest, right titled "Budget," black with brown trim.

Holland Cooper and Barbour are known for their quilted gilets, but a diamond gilet from Holland Cooper will set you back £145.

For a smarter buy, the Women’s Quilted Bodywarmer Jacket on Amazon is around £35. It’s available in sizes up to 22 (more inclusive than the premium brands) and offers extra room in the bust.

A Great-Value Bag

Two brown leather bags side by side; left labeled "Bougie" on tan, right "Budget" on cream. Wavy line divides background.

Finally, a bag I think is brilliant value: the Firu Handmade Vintage Leather Crossbody Bag (£36.99).

It’s similar in style to the Dubarry Clara Bag (£139) and my Hicks & Hide cartridge bag (around £120). While not suited for cartridges, it’s bigger than the Clara and fits the countryside aesthetic beautifully.

Final Thoughts on Getting the Country Look Without the Price Tag

You don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve classic country style. With so many affordable alternatives, you can create the look — and often get the same practicality — without the premium price tag.

Have you spotted any other great country wear bargains? Share them in the comments — I’d love to know!

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