London, Paris, Milan these are the typical places where youd expect to spend a fashionistas weekend. The real fashionistas (Kate Moss, Stella McCartney and Sienna Miller) visit the Cotswolds of course. What better way to spend a chic weekend than exploring some of Britains most gorgeous spots and enjoying fashion in the Cotswolds? Theres more for the fashion lover than you might think, and your perfect weekend in the country awaits!
Fashion In The Cotswolds - Planning Your Perfect Weekend Away!
Friday evening
Its been a long working week and were sure you just want to catch up with your friends and relax - the perfect way to get ready for your weekend of fashion in the Cotswolds. Fortunately, our Jigsaw properties have all the luxuries you need to enjoy an evening in with the girls. Tyne Hill Barn is the ideal self-catering cottage for you to stay in, with its own swimming pool and stunning deck area which is ideal for lounging around with your friends. Make the most of the BBQ in the summer, or the fully equipped kitchen and treat yourselves to some in-house catering whatever you need to make your evening special. Finish the day by retiring to your very own super comfortable bed, to rest ahead of a full day's worth of fashion in the Cotswolds.
Saturday morning
Enjoy a nice, light breakfast out in the garden or in the chic dining room. Go continental with minimal effort or the chef amongst you can serve up something tasty (provided the rest of you do the dishes!). Get ready in your most Instagram-worthy outfits, pile in the car and head to Burford.
Independent Shopping in Burford
Burford is a treasure trove of cute and quirky shops which have something for everyone. From special occasionwear through to country casuals, youll find some wonderful pieces from fantastic designers. The shops themselves are housed in beautiful stone buildings which are a joy to walk around. Be sure to stop at the Madhatter Bookshop, which, besides a cool collection of books to purchase, sells hats in all styles for whatever occasion youre looking for just try not to buy everything! Stop for an early lunch at the gorgeous Priory Restaurant and soak up its charming dcor. If the sun is shining, kick-back in the lush garden area and celebrate your new fashion finds.
Saturday afternoon
Its time to get back in the car and drive through the Cotswolds to fashionista favourite, Bath. Wind your way through the countryside and enjoy the breath-taking views, as you go. First stop in the Georgian city is The Fashion Museum, which not only houses permanent collections but some wonderful temporary exhibits too. Be sure to check out A History of Fashion in 100 Objects exhibit, as well as having a go at one of the many workshops and sketching classes the museum puts on; a great way to boost your existing sartorial knowledge and indulge your passion for fashion. After a couple of hours at the museum, you can then turn your full attention to Baths high street, where youll find the usual popular high street, designer brands, and a number of health and beauty stores - many of which are hard to find in standalone stores outside of London. Shop til you drop and enjoy the luxury that Bath has to offer. If youve got time and fancy an extra drive, the Mulberry Factory Shop in Shepton Mallet is approximately a half-hour drive from Bath and features a huge selection of iconic Mulberry bags at prices you cant resist.
Saturday evening
Book a table at the renowned Wild Thyme restaurant in Chipping Norton which features a lovely selection of artwork as well as tasty dishes. Order a bottle of Veuve Clicquot and toast to a fabulous day of fashion in the Cotswolds!
Sunday morning
Sadly its time to pack up, but the fun isnt over yet. Head to the stylish Cowley Manor in the Cotswolds for some pampering with the girls. The spa is housed within the Manors magnificent grounds and features both indoor and outdoor (heated, of course) swimming pools as well as an impressive treatments list. Enjoy lunch at the manor restaurant and leave feeling completely refreshed and energised for the journey home.
If you have an extra day
If you find yourself with an extra day in the Cotswolds, take the opportunity to trek along some of the areas most popular walks and enjoy the invigoration that comes from being truly outdoors. Walking is a very effective exercise and makes a nice change from sweaty, air-conditioned, fluorescent gyms and overcrowded park runs. With your extra day, you can also take the time to explore the town of Cheltenham, which is also home to a number of familiar stores, as well as the racecourse which may have events to coincide with your visit. You can also book a table at Le Champignon Sauvage which comes highly recommended by The Guardian, Cond Nast Traveller and others, and take in some of Cheltenhams trendy bars too.
Top tips for making the most of your stay
To get the most out of your weekend, youre going to need a car, but if plenty of bubbles and cocktails are a part of your plans, you may wish to arrange some driver services or taxis to ensure everyone can enjoy themselves. What better way to live a weekend of luxury than with your own driver for hire? Whilst heels are the most glamorous of shoes, theyre not very practical for walking the cobbled streets of Cotswold towns or exploring the country flat shoes can still be chic, whilst boots are a great alternative for the fashion-conscious. Make the most of your cottages facilities from spacious kitchens to relaxing living spaces, remember that your chosen Jigsaw property is your home from home. Bring some of your favourite chick flicks with you and you can all enjoy a giggle and a lounge at the end of your long days of shopping. The Cotswolds offers something for everyone, and fashionistas wont be disappointed with whats on offer. Take a look at our full list of properties, get the girls together and plan your fabulously stylish weekend that will be sure to make others green with envy as you discover fashion in the Cotswolds.