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All too often, Harris Tweed has conjured up images of your granddad’s itchy jacket and waistcoat. Times however have changed. Harris Tweed is now moving in more youthful circles, with the traditional material making waves in the fashion industry. The Future Of Harris Tweed Harris Tweed remains to this day, the only fabric in the world produced to commercial quantities by exclusively traditional methods. Supported by the Harris Tweed Act of 1993, the Orb featured on Harris Tweed jackets and garments protects production of this treasured material. In recent years, the Carloway Mill – the smallest of the three mills – received backing from Shandong Ruyi, a major Chinese textiles company. As a result, it produced a million metres in 2012, continuing to grow to this day. Relatively unknown in China, the potential growth of the Carloway Mill could transform the Harris Tweed industry forever. “Producing Harris Tweed involves very labour-intensive methods and a long logistic process. We have to ensure that we deliver the tweed to the expected standard, while we are determined to continue taking bespoke orders from some of our clients; these special projects can be very time-consuming but they are certainly worthwhile for both parties involved.” said Bruce Armitage, Operations Director at The Carloway Mill. Harris Tweed Jackets For The Modern Man As well as the potential expansion across the globe, Harris Tweed has also modernised the cloth itself. More versatile and lighter than previous blends, it is the perfect material for use on modern Harris Tweed jackets. Alongside their traditional tweed jackets, Harris Tweed has launched a new collection with modern materials and designs. Callum Blazer – A combination of old and new, the Callum blazer takes the classic heavy weight Harris Tweed fabric and pairs it with stylish touches and a more modern fitted cut. With a contrast red lining, this is the perfect jacket for the modern man. Rory Blazer – Made from more traditional Tweed, the Rory blazer is a great combination of old and new. Designed for a more modern fit, it features double slanted hip pockets and the traditional leather elbow patches. Laxdale Jacket – If you favour a traditional cut, the Laxdale is the ideal Harris Tweed jacket. Superbly tailored, hardwearing and warm, it is guaranteed to offer exceptional quality. For a modern twist, go for the black and grey herringbone tweed. Buy Harris Tweed Jackets Online From The Scotland Kilt Company To buy a certified Harris Tweed Jacket, browse our men’s jackets online today. Find exclusive online discounts and get yourself a piece of Scottish history. For sales enquiries email sales@thescotlandkiltcompany.co.uk or call 0131 553 3472.

National Tartan Day. 6th April 2014 The Kilt; From Rag To Riches To really appreciate Scotland's national dress we must consider its humble beginnings; plain colourless everyday wear in the Highlands of Northern Scotland, right through to its place in our modern society. From patternless wraps, outlawed by the English for fear of sparking revolution amongst the common people, it's ironic really that the kilt itself spawned revolution in the fashion world. Today you'll see the kilt legging it down just about every catwalk in the world. In 2002 an entire event was created in honour of the piece, which has evolved into one of the worlds most watched fashion events. Pulling in millions of dollars of interest, with top names in TV, film, fashion and media with even the most dilute relation to Scotland throwing themselves at the chance to sashay down the runway. Tartan; the kilts most iconic counterpart, has a global reach. So big has the pattern grown, an entire week is dedicated to it in the month of April. FromScotlandWithLove bred the fashion behemoth: Dress to Kilt; considered to be the 3rd biggest fashion event, aims to raise funds for select charities whilst simultaneously raising the profile of Scotland and its many famous exports. Naturally, whiskey makes an appearance. No sign of Irn Bru or anything deep fried as yet. As in fashion, tartan is also a form of identity. Clans and families throughout history bore their own personal brand of tartan which set them apart from the next. From woven wools right through to more modern approaches of leather and studs, kilts and tartans have evolved (or mutated, depending on where you stand) with the ages. Whichever you prefer, there is definitely a kilt and a tartan for you. Whether you know your family pattern or you're interested in a more contemporary material, The Scotland Kilt Company come well equipped to meet your needs. http://www.thescotlandkiltcompany.co.uk/

Tweed was once considered to be an itchy, thick unpleasant material worn by old grumpy men, but it has evolved over the years. Tweed went from the retired mans shabby coat to being worn by the rich and famous in the mid 20th century, and even more recently, Harris Tweed has become fashionable and popular appealing to a large young audience. Attitudes to tailoring in general have changed over the years and, with all of us looking to make the most of our money, quality cloth that lasts a lifetime is winning every time. Harris is the most famous brand of tweed wool there is because a Harris Tweed Jacket epitomises decorum, luxury and timeless appeal. Here at The Scotland Kilt Company, we bring you the finest collection of Harris Tweed Jackets that perfectly capture traditional sophistication with contemporary design.

Here at The Scotland Kilt Company we are passionate about highland fashion and tailoring and believe that a Harris Tweed jacket is an iconic piece of clothing that will remain in your wardrobe for a lifetime. Harris Tweed is a blend of proud British heritage and immaculate tailoring and stitching that is second to none. Harris Tweed has a prestigious place in fashion history and is still featured in Autumn runway collections today. Where Was Harris Tweed Featured In Paris Fashion Week? Strong tailoring was a noticeable trend at this year’s Paris Fashion Week and featured on the catwalks of Givenchy and Maison Martin Margiela. Margiela embraced British Heritage and incorporated Harris Tweed in their coats and jackets. Online blog Trend Hunter said the show featured “mannish tailoring and menswear fabrics that Margiela tweaks with its signature quirk. Classic houndstooth, Prince of Wales check and Harris Tweed are thrown in the mix, emerging as coats with cropped fronts, trailing backs and jackets.”

The Scotland Kilt Company offers a wonderful range of tartan kilts and kilt packages to order or hire for any special event. When we look at fashion over the last century tartan has featured in many different styles and trends. Although Scottish inspired prints can be found on the high street there is nothing better than having your clan tartan crafted by the hands of specialist tailors. Special occasions are the ideal place to celebrate your heritage and wear your clan tartan with pride and honour, so much so, it is not uncommon to find a celebrity sporting a kilt or tartan prints to a red carpet or televised event. Who Has Been Spotted In Tartan Kilts? The past winter season has seen a rise in tartan pattern again with designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Karl Lagerfeld using tartan print and highland influences in their 2013 winter collections. Everyone from Kate Middleton to Cara Delevingne has been seen sporting the print, the UK’s own Glamour magazine says Tartan is “the classic print hailing from the Highlands with which fashion has an enduring love affair – and this season Tartan is very much back on the style agenda.” *

Dating back to the 16th century, the longstanding tradition of the kilt means that its wear is surrounded with custom and expected behaviour. The modern kilt is roughly 100 years old, barely changing in style since that time. If you are new to this traditional Highland dress, we have highlighted the most important things to know before buying men’s kilts. After this, choosing a kilt should be simple. Here is our simple guide to buying men’s kilts.

Scottish Whiskey Month Homecoming Scotland 01st May - 31st May Who is known more for their love of whiskey? For an entire month the nation will raise a glass to one of its most famous exports; malt whiskey! Not typically known for its cuisine, Scotland does seem to churn out some tasty drinks and as part of the countries profile boosting year long Homecoming event; for 31 fluid filled days, Irn Bru's grown up brother will be the toast of every town from John O'Groats to Annan. No doubt every man and his dog will be carrying a cheeky flask in his inside pocket and you should be no exception! Most major cities shall be holding events in the aim of raising Scotland's profile as a producer of fine food and drink, culture and tourism. 'Drammers' from far and wide will share in exploring the vast subtleties of the malt through-out the entire month of May by emptying thousands of barrels. Edinburgh seems to be hosting the majority of the Months events, with practically every Whiskey bar and restaurant holding special events in honour of the tipple. For all the who's and where's you will need to get yourself down to VisitScotlands website (http://www.visitscotland.org/media_centre/a_dram_fine_month_of_events.aspx) but you need look no further to equip yourself with the essentials, namely a stylish tartan hip flask! We have a huge range of tartan designed, chrome containers that are perfect for storing your emergency nip. Something a little more traditional? Say no more. We have dozens of plain chrome flasks with various designs. Stop thinking and start drinking... with one of these beauties! Get your own Scottish inspired hipflask at The Scotland Kilt Company (http://www.thescotlandkiltcompany.co.uk/catalogsearch/result/?q=flask)

Ryder Cup Gleneagles, Scotland September 23rd-28th What To Wear At The Ryder Cup It is fast approaching that time of year again where Scotland will host one of the biggest sporting events in the world; The Ryder Cup. Dozens of golfs' big hitters and thousands upon thousands of enthusiast will descend upon Gleneagles in Perthshire to take in the historic event and hopefully pot a few balls themselves. It is then inevitable that for almost a week, the worlds' eye shall be on Scotland once again. If you are thinking of going or are lucky enough to be watching by the rough, you will no doubt want to be seen looking your best. Whilst it might be difficult to pull off an Ian Poulter we are certain to have something for you. The fashion world was alight with tartan and tweed this year. So start there! For the gents, take a more casual approach with a Harris Tweed Jacket over a shirt. This will undoubtedly give off an effortlessly casual feel whilst maintaining the luxery and quality that Tweed lends its wearer. Muted trousers and a smart shoe will serve you well. Ladies, tartan kilts and skirts are back. Dig deep into those drawers or invest in a classy tartan knee length number. No pattern is too bold in these days of pioneering style. Though we remain ever hopeful, we need to remember we are in Scotland and Scotland means wind and the very possible/more than likely chance of rain. Fortunately, we are in Scotland so that means tartan is cool, no matter what the season. Keep a scarf handy. Again, no tartan is too vivid. Ladies can ensure they look their best for the cameras in a classy tartan skirt. Ladies Tweed jackets are very popular this season with its revivial on the internation runways so consider a Kate or Sarah to really make a good impression. Stuck? Fear not. We're here to help. Contact us on 0131 553 3472 or at sales@thescotlandkiltcompany.co.uk for more details of our fantastic clothing!

To create the perfect tailor made kilt, we’re going to need your measurements! In this handy guide from The Scotland Kilt Company, you can learn how to take your measurements to help us create the perfect kilt. How To Measure Yourself For A Tailor Made Kilt? Ideally, you should always have a partner available to do the measuring. All you’ll need to begin taking your measurements is a friend or family member and a tape measure! Follow the below steps to get your vital statistics: Chest – Place the tape underneath the armpits and make sure it is covering the shoulder blades. Measure snugly after this. This will give us your jacket measurement. Jackets are an integral part of creating a traditional Scottish outfit. Kilt Waist – Kilts are generally worn higher than trousers; roughly 1-2 inches above the belly button. Measure how you would someone’s waist but measure their naval. This will give the kilt waist measurement. Kilt Length – To find the correct kilt length for you, kneel down on the ground with a straight back and keep looking forward. Then, take the tape measure and measure from the floor to above the belly button. Remember to keep looking straight ahead. If you don’t the measurement will change! Seat – Put your feet together and then measure the broadest part of your hips to find correct size seat for your tailor made kilt. Inside Leg – This can be done without measuring yourself! Simply measure the inside leg of a well fitting pair of jeans or trousers from the crotch down to trouser hem to find your inside leg measurements. Collar Size – Measure around the neck, just underneath the Adam’s apple, but leave a finger’s space. You want to be able to breathe after all! Waist To Ankle – This measurement is for ladies looking for full length kilts. As the name suggests measure from your waist down to your ankle.

Every country has a national identity. For Scotland, one of our national symbols is the traditional kilt. Kilts are made from hardwearing materials and traditionally feature tartan patterns. But what is a tartan and how did they develop? A Guide To Tartans The tartan patterning of traditional kilts has much to do with Scottish clan, or family, heritage. In the 19th century, specific records on tartans began to be recorded more frequently. The symbols and patterns adorned on a kilt were particular to a family or clan and this was a clear way of having a clan identity. It was, and remains, a manner in which families and clans have bonded as they take solace in their common pattern or design. The pattern on a kilt is always arranged vertically and horizontally. The weight of thread used in production affects the size of a single “sett”, which is the block of colour which forms a pattern and repeats. Colours used can very even if the shades are similar, due to the process where the thread is dyed being variable with each batch. A clan may have more than one colouring associated with it, and there is no limit to how many one must have. Modern And Traditional Tartans There are four main groups of tartan. An ancient tartan is made to look aged. This is done in order to replicate the vegetable dye which was used in the manufacturing process many years ago. Weathered tartans have a similarity to ancient tartans as they are also made with an old look in mind, but the weathered tartan in particular is designed to look as if it has been affected by the elements rather than the rigours of time. Muted tartans are understated, and more of a homely feel to them, with colours such as olive and dark red. A recent addition to the types of kilts available is the modern kilt. These are more vivid and feature more vibrant colours than traditional kilts. These colours and shades have been made possible due to utilising modern dying techniques and processes. Although kilts are traditionally made from woollen tartan cloth, something to remember about kilts is that they can be made from other materials. Tweed, for example, is another popular alternative to standard kilt materials. Traditionally, kilts are worn at special occasions such as weddings and funerals. However, there are two distinctive types of complete kilt outfit: evening wear and day wear. Evening wear is worn at more formal occasions and features more ornamentation in the tartan patterning and kilt accessories. For everyday use, day wear is used. Day wear kilts are more rugged and plain, as they’re meant to be worn on a daily basis. For the best tailor made and traditional kilts please browse our range at the Scotland Kilt Company today. We have over 100 different tartan variations so you’re sure to find the right clan tartan for you! To learn more about our collection of tartans, please send us an email at sales@thescotlandkiltcompany.co.uk, give us a call on 0131 553 3472 or send us a message via our online contact page.