Essential Clothing Items to Pick Up in Scotland

Leave it up to the Scots to make it the only cloth in the world protected by an Act of Parliament. Entangled with a legacy as rich as the rest of Scotland, ‘Harris Tweed’ stems from pure craftsmanship and an affinity with the land. Invest in an expertly tailored classic blazer made from the finest ‘Harris Tweed’ and prepare to be the talk of the town. Both women and mens’ options can be found throughout multiple fashion houses across Scotland. Take matters one step further and look the epitome of country chic in a ‘Harris Tweed’ flat cap.

Are you a true Scotsman? Bursting with character, a kilt is a trusty staple that, despite criticism, will never go out of style. Head to the likes of Kinloch Anderson and Geoffrey (Tailor) Kiltmakers in Edinburgh, MacGregor and MacDuff in Glasgow, or House of Henderson in Stirling, and choose your sett. From clan names and colours, a kilt is a fail-safe option for casual and classy occasions.

Ditch the trews and rules to embrace the contemporary kilt. Who says you can’t wear it every day of the year? And no, tartan doesn’t always have to steal the show. Make a scene and opt for a smoldering black option with a sleek leather jacket. Add a splash of personality and blind the haters with gold and purple denim, captivating camouflage, or timeless pinstripes. Make an appointment with Howie Nicholsby in Edinburgh, the brainchild behind bespoke designer boutique 21st Century Kilts, and go against the mundane grain.

Price: £550+

Who says cashmere is reserved for middle-aged prudes in pearls and pink lipstick? Hawico is proof that cashmere can be contemporary and cool. A perfect Christmas gift for the guys and gals with a penchant for the finer things in life, Hawico is flawless. From the men’s tailored cashmere herringbone zip jacket to the women’s cashmere polo neck and cashmere skirt, wear a silky piece of Scotland like there’s no tomorrow.

Punctuated with intricate patterns and adorned with colour, Fair Isle is an iconic traditional knitting technique that stemmed from Fair Isle, an island that forms part of the Shetland Islands in Scotland. Whether a traditionalist or a stickler for craftsmanship and hipster prints, make sure to steer clear from the replicas and source authentic Fair Isle jumpers straight from the Scottish artisans. This timeless sweater style gained widespread popularity in 1921 when the Prince of Wales was spotted sporting a Fair Isle tank top.

Another Scottish jewel to take the fashion industry by storm, Pringle of Scotland is celebrated worldwide for continuously producing high quality garments. Known for cashmere, Argyle and the trusty twinset, celebrities and fashion followers can’t get enough of Pringle. From the women’s hand-knitted chunky Icelandic Fair Isle jumper (complete with on-trend exaggerated sleeves and a triple roll neck), to the dapper men’s dark green tartan check jacket, Pringle is a shining symbol of Scotland and a gateway to fashionable comfort. If jackets and sweaters are too costly, Pringle socks will always suffice!

Christopher Kane, Scotland’s very own design rock star, commandeered the fashion scene when he first emerged in 2006. From bandage tight dresses exploding with colour to empowering off-the-wall designs, there is nothing he cannot do. Anything from his 10 Capsule collection will be the gift of the century for fashion fans. A celebration of his look-at-me prints throughout the years proudly printed onto street-style sweaters, highlights of the 10 Capsule collection include the much-loved chimp, brain, Frankenstein, and Botanist prints from previous seasons.

A touch of tartan adds a bit of flair to even the greyest of days. Whether high street sought or luxury designer, it’s here to stay. You don’t have to search far for it in Scotland, so take your pick from countless stores. However, Marchbrae is known for hosting a never-ending supply of countless colours and clans. Those who like to make a statement should opt for the oversized scarves. Pair it with a leather jacket and all will be well.