All Creatures Great and Small
Channel 5 has announced the return of the beloved 'All Creatures Great and Small' for Seasons 5 and 6, along with a highly anticipated Christmas Special arriving this coming Christmas. Recreating the original series from the 1970s, viewers have fallen in love with the vibrant characters, picturesque landscape, and, of course, the periodic clothing. As we begin the countdown to colder days and darker evenings, perhaps you are considering giving your wardrobe a touch of 1930s Yorkshire inspiration. Well, you're not the only one!
Samuel West, Nicholas Ralph, Callum Woodhouse, and Anna Madeley in Masterpiece’s All Creatures Great and Small.Photo: Matt Squire © Playground Television (UK) Ltd.
James Herriot, the vet whose stories the series is based upon, is the character whose clothing and style changes the most through the first season. Having arrived from Glasgow, James can be seen wearing a grey woollen suit, reflective of the monochrome style of urban Scotland in the mid-twentieth century. However, once he embeds himself within the culture of the Yorkshire Dales, James can soon be seen rocking a number of classic, vintage looks. He is often seen in a pair of chestnut brown corduroy trousers, coupled with a knitted tank top, as shown above. The knitwear is a versatile piece to pair under a suit or formal jacket, or even just on top of a shirt. The cord trousers have already seen a resurgence in popularity with the usual brown, green, and black colors being a perfect addition to any winter wardrobe. Whether this be a high-waisted double-pleated design as worn by James or a more modern low-rise option, you are unlikely to find a comfier or more stylish pair of trousers.
Channel 5/Jay Brooks
Helen, a local farmer and James’s soon-to-be wife, has wooed viewers with her classic dungaree and corduroy outfits throughout the series. Her navy-blue dungarees are a fan favorite, reflective of the comeback made by this vintage clothing to wardrobes across the country. Adding a chunky pair of Wellington boots is truly the ideal way of bringing the countryside into your wardrobe. However, it is not only Helen’s work attire that has left viewers envious. Vibrant summer dresses have been added to her wardrobe, such as the one pictured above. A similar style, with green and red patterns, was also seen in 'The Last Man In' episode. The idea of a modern sundress but with a vintage twist is enough for many viewers to have sent in requests as to where they can find a copy. What better way to spend a summer’s day than bringing the 1930s into the modern day?
Of course, we cannot forget the standout silk and lace wedding dress. As a statement of fact, this would attract anyone’s attention. The pattern and shape of the dress are beautiful, and of course, actor Rachel Shenton makes it look dazzling. Don’t forget, this outfit should only be contemplated with a wedding in mind!
Playground Entertainment/ MASTERPIECE
As the lead veterinarian and owner of the business, Siegfried dresses accordingly; conventional and classic. In contrast to the two younger vets at the practice, he tends to opt for a more modest color palette, with browns and greys being the most common (and most practical in the countryside). He is the epitome of showcasing the timeless tweed suit, often coupled with a wool waistcoat and even a trilby hat. When out and about tending to cattle or admiring horses, a brown cotton coat is worn to protect against the elements. Although the opportunity to wear such an outfit daily is likely in the past, rocking up to a special occasion Siegfried-style is guaranteed to turn more than a few heads.
Anna Madeley as Mrs. Hall ©Playground Television UK Ltd & all3media international
As the hard-working housekeeper of the veterinary practice, Mrs. Hall is often seen in a simple yet practical outfit. Her clothes tend to be quite modest and professional, and only in the later seasons do we start to see a more vibrant color palette being worn. When cooking a hearty Yorkshire dinner, she is often seen in a floral pattern apron. An eye-catching accessory like this brilliantly lights up the room and gives a homely air to any Sunday dinner! The cardigan worn by Mrs. Hall in the above picture is a staple in most episodes, with Anna Madeley claiming this to be one of her favorite items. Such cardigans are growing increasingly popular, and this resonates with a cozy winter’s evening spent in front of the fire.
Channel 5
Tristan, Siegfried's younger and frequently more incompetent brother, is regularly shown in a colorful Fair Isle vest. These patterned jumpers would have been all the rage in the 1930s and 40s, and truly resonate with country living. As Tristan grows into a more professional and responsible veterinarian, so too does his wardrobe. In comes a dapper look largely based on suits, or at the very least a shirt and tie. It is reflective of the formal style worn throughout the early twentieth century by both city-goers and rural dwellers. But that is not to say it cannot be brought into the modern day. The woollen trousers worn by Tristan (and many of the other male cast) are a timeless staple of any smart casual wardrobe. Knitwear can also be seen everywhere, and could well be the fashion piece of the coming winter. So, if you’re feeling a little brazen, why not stand out with the iconic Fair Isle pattern? Wear it to your local pub, and you will be transported to the cosy hearth of the Drovers Arms.
