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Cloth of identity: designing tartan
News Story
Tartan is one of the most recognisable symbols of Scotland. With historical roots in the display culture of medieval Gaelic society, this living tradition has constantly evolved to suit the social and cultural landscapes of the moment.
Tartan has always been a cloth of identity. Its grid can be used to tell all manner of stories. How are today’s designers crafting these stories?
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The art of weaving tartan
Textiles are a major industry in Scotland. From small batch producers to large commercial mills, how do different mills approach the production of the nation’s most recognisable cloth?
The evolving craft of kilt making
In contemporary Scotland, kiltmaking remains a rich and varied industry. How are different makers bringing their own styles, methods, and meanings to the craft?
Discover tartan stories
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Formal trews outfit from one of Scotland’s oldest Highland dress outfitters
This trews outfit from Kinloch Anderson, Edinburgh, is an example of formal wear popular among Scottish groomsmen. The peacock feather plume brooch and black leather Chelsea boots give a contemporary edge to what is considered a… - Discover
Traditional Highland wear: a formal kilt suit
The kilt suit collected from Chisholms Highland Dress epitomises the traditional approach to Highland wear, familiar to many both within and outside Scotland. This formal silhouette is a popular choice among consumers. It is often… - Discover
The art of weaving tartan
Tartan is one of the most recognisable symbols of Scotland. With historical roots in the display culture of medieval Gaelic society, this living tradition has constantly evolved to suit the social and cultural landscapes of the…