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When I first moved with my family from London to the Cotswolds eight years ago I did wonder how I would combine my love of fashion with my new-found enthusiasm for mud. I needn’t have worried – it soon became clear that this was an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in more ways than one, and the locals are extremely chic indeed.

I took the sewing machines and fabrics I’d used as a designer in my studio in Wimbledon and set up an atelier in Burford. A picture-perfect market town, Burford is a major draw for locals and tourists alike, and it didn’t take long for me to be able to spot the difference between the two.

It isn’t just the lack of mud on their Le Chameau wellies (or cars) but more how easily cliche creeps in to a tourist’s ‘Cotswolds Look’. If you’re visiting, you will, of course, find appropriate gear for your autumnal walk in the local country clothing specialist (I love Elm of Burford and William Powell), but unless you’re actually going on a shoot, remember less is more.

You just need a few key pieces that are both functional and necessary – top to toe tweed to pose on a bridge in Bibury? No, thanks. Shiny new shepherd’s crook and box-fresh Dubarry’s at a village fete? Ditto.

The goal is to combinine practicality and comfort with your own individual style. Think natural earthy tones, soft fabrics, lots of layering and always, and I mean always, a pair of wellies and a wax jacket in the boot of your car.

Dressing well at this time of the year means making sure you’re not fazed by the rain or the cold – nothing marks you out as a townie quicker than moaning about the weather. And when the opportunity arises for a bit of glamour, as it often does down here, relaxed luxe, shine and texture are the way to go.

Of course, dressing the part is a natural instinct, and we all want to get it right – so for your next trip to the country, take your inspiration from the outfits above and you’ll blend in and feel at home from Broadway high street to Bamford and beyond.

Dressing for a smart daytime event? These high waisted Holland Cooper trousers add a bit of shine, while a neutral, like this thick-knit Herd jumper, will bring your look back to relaxed luxe again.

This is the closest we have to a school gate uniform. An embroidered blouse with an oversized collar and enough width in the sleeve makes it clear it’s not workwear. And there’s detention for anyone who isn’t wearing a knitted vest (this one from Brora will get you a gold star). These Paige jeans will see you through to post drop-up coffee.

A velvet suit is the winter party staple down here – warm enough for draughty party barns, glam enough for the style set. This high lustre teal beauty from Aspiga is bang on while you save up for a Bella Freud.

Have you ever tried to shove wide-leg trousers into wellies? I’ve tried it – you’re better off with skinnies (or the Paige jeans – the slits mean you can wrap them around your ankles should you need to shove on your Le Chameaus). And of course you need a tweed jacket.

You may think that bold prints and bright colours are banned, but actually the Cotswolds attracts creatives in droves and brands like Hayley Menzies are much-loved with women seeking to inject a bit of fun in their wardrobes. Her belted cardigans are perennially popular – they’re also incredibly practical as they are super thick, so very warm!

Another staple look is a combination of wax jacket (doesn’t need to be Barbour, as long as it’s water repellent), long dress and boots. This cord dress from Monsoon is a must. It’s comfortable, the cord is soft yet warm and the print brings a nice contrast of colour, which in turn matches these Fairfax & Favor classic boots. Burford Garden Centre here we come.

The more room to roam the better – Just how the sheep like it too! A pair of dungarees like these from Toast is a versatile, practical and stylish choice. And though this particular cashmere jumper from Katherine Hooker costs a small fortune, you’ll save on the heating bill and it’s one for your daughter to love in the future too.