What To Wear To The Game Fair 2026
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1 week ago
A huge celebration of the British countryside (and its many pursuits) is just around the corner
Swathes of open fields, galloping horses and more tweed than the eye can see – that’s right, The Game Fair is back in town. And this year, it makes a triumphant return to Ragley Hall in Warwickshire. Already have your tickets lined up? If the answer is yes, then you’re likely pondering your wardrobe choices. Whether you’re leaning towards casual or dressy this summer, here’s what to wear to The Game Fair 2026.
The Game Fair: A Style Guide
The Game Fair is undeniably one of the hottest dates in the British summer calendar. An annual showcase dedicated to the countryside – its heritage, modern pursuits and conservation for the future – the event takes place in late July, with visitors invited to explore a range of sporting displays and exhibitions. This includes everything from shooting, fishing and falconry to horse and hound events, as well as sections dedicated to exploring the latest in rural innovation).
The fashion, as expected, lives up to the event’s subject matter. People have been wearing tweeds, woollens and wax jackets to the Game Fair for decades – and it’s expected to remain a trend at this year’s event. ‘I think part of the joy of the Game Fair is the continuity of its aesthetic, and this element of nostalgia is appealing in a world dominated by ever-changing trends and fast fashion,’ says stylist and fashion writer Alice Hare. ‘Because there’s a focus on classic country style, the outfits people wore to attend when it first began in 1958 would look as at home there today. There’s focus on heritage and craftsmanship and this is exemplified by the brands that have stands at the Fair.’
But unlike the layers you might see in the colder months, July gives country fashion a noticeably more summery feel. ‘We so often associate country fashion with winter dressing – tweed, wool, wax jackets – but the Game Fair is unique in that it provides a summer stage for country fashion,’ says Hare. ‘It’s always interesting to see how people reinterpret their country staples through clever styling to make them July-appropriate.’
Is There A Dress Code?
There isn’t an official dress code for The Game Fair, but most people tend to ‘dress up’ in their finest British countryside regalia. Think tweed, wax jackets, gilets, flat caps and wellington boots. It’s also recommended that attendees pack a few layers for the weekend, in case the British weather takes a turn for the worst. (Umbrellas may also be a good shout.)
Some of Hare’s top items to pack for the Game Fair include: ‘easily peel-off-able layers like a tweed gilet, maybe with a pussybow shirt under for some 80s Sloane Ranger factor. A linen midi skirt is an elegant choice; I love it styled with a safari-style jacket and equestrian boots for a summer-appropriate reinterpretation of country classics.’
And, if in doubt, you can always pick up a few extras at the event itself. The Game Fair will play host to a huge range of British labels specialising in heritage and countryside fashion, from Fairfax & Favor and Joules to Holland Cooper and Schoffel. Backup sorted.
The Edit: Game Fair 2026 Outfit Ideas
Need For Tweed
It might be the middle of summer, but it’s never too hot for a yard or two of tweed. The ultimate British staple, today’s tweeds are worn as sturdy jackets, smart gilets, tailored blazers and even as fine detailing on clothing and accessories.
All-Weather Layers
You never know, but the British weather is fickle – especially the further you get from the city. While you can get away with jeans and T-shirt on warmer days, the chill might encourage a wax jacket and an extra shirt.
Turn It Up A Notch
While casual dress is more than welcome at The Game Fair, some do like to dress up for the occasion. We’re talking full shooting tweeds, homespun suits and summer dresses accessorised with fedoras and wedges. (Or wellies, weather permitting.)
Practical Bits & Finishing Touches
Did we mention you might need wellington boots? And a hat? While the finishing touches might not be a pair of heels or ornate jewellery (we’ll leave that to Glyndebourne), you’ll certainly look every bit the rural dweller in these countryside add-ons.
A Stylist’s Top Tips: What To Wear To The Game Fair
Below, stylist Alice Hare shares her top style tips for the Game Fair.
Prioritise Practicality
Above all, it’s recommended to pack layers for a day at the Game Fair. ‘I’m not exactly renowned for my practical approach to dressing, but even I concede practicality is an important Game Fair consideration,’ says Hare. ‘It can be baking hot during the day and you’ll be doing plenty of wandering around the stands, so you’ll want to be careful not to overheat – but that said, by evening it can get quite chilly. Layers are therefore essential. Think gilets, cotton shirts and even wide brim straw hats that will help keep the sun off.’
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’re also likely to spend most of the day on your feet at the Game Fair, which means ‘shoes you can march around in all day’ are another important item on the checklist.
Keep Your Hands Free
Hare’s top tip for the weekend? Invest in a crossbody bag. ‘This way, you’ll have your hands free to explore the stands’ offerings and eventually carry anything you might buy.’
When Is It?
The Game Fair takes place every summer in the British countryside. This year, it falls on a long weekend – starting on Friday 24 and wrapping up on Sunday 26 July 2026. Use the discount code House20 for a 20 percent discount on tickets. thegamefair.org
