Purdey's most technically advanced clothing yet...

We caught up with Purdey's head clothing designer, Corinne Metcalfe, at the launch of their exciting new Autumn Winter Clothing Collection at their famous Mayfair store. Having tried on the new Fieldcoats, the fit and technological advancements Purdey have produced are really quite special...

How long does it take to put a Purdey collection together?

"For an Autumn Winter Collection it takes around 18 months from concept to customer."

What does the process involve?

"We start by presenting the design to members of the shooting, sales and marketing teams, and following their feedback pull the styles together with our suppliers and factories. We then talk to our Brand Ambassadors and key customers, do wear tests and work on fit.

Searching trade fairs to find new fabrics and trims is key, as well as visiting our Mill in Scotland to develop the new tweed patterns and colours from the new colour palette for the season. For example, the colours in this new collection take inspiration from the feathers of Britain’s best known game bird, the cock pheasant.

We are usually working on 3 seasons in different stages at once!"

What makes the new technical tweed so fantastic?

"From newly engineered pockets and the fit of the field coat, to the new technical tweed fabric.

The tweed is key and was developed with our Mill in Scotland to reduce the weight by 30% compared to a traditional tweed. This has been achieved by weaving nylon threads into the tweed fibres, making it both lighter and more durable.

To ensure the coat is waterproof we have included a 'Sympatex Z' drop liner in-between the outer shell and lining. We have also added a durable water repellent finish to the outer tweed surface. This truly gives the wearer the traditional look of tweed plus the reassurance of knowing they will be warm and dry. The technical tweed is also available in breeks, shooting vest and cap."

Why have you decided to use Sympatex?

"Sympatex is a highly respected manufacturer of waterproof and breathable membranes. and the company has always been one of the front runners in this field. As well as producing a top performing product their strong environmental policies fit well with the Purdey name."

Which piece in the collection is your personal favourite?

"That's a tricky one...the ladies cashmere coat is beautiful and also I love the fitted tweed long coat on the front of our brochure. The ones I'm most proud of though have to be the new technical field and Snipe coats as they are core to the Purdey heritage."

What are you planning next at Purdey?

"We have a great collection for safari and travelling coming out for Spring Summer '19 and have been working on some exciting new developments for Autumn Winter '19, but will have to keep those a secret for now!"

To find out more about the Purdey Autumn/Winter Collection or to see the range, visit the Purdey website here.