Eight different types of tweed

22^nd October 2022

The editorial unit

The editorial unit

22 October 2022

The tweed garments may have originated from the Scottish Highlands, but it was the upper classes from the British Isles who gave them the stately charm that they have today. From the common farmers who relied on this durable fabric to perform rugged work, tweed has elevated its position and became the fabric choice preferred by the elites during hunting sessions and other sports activities for over a century. With its durability, earthy aesthetic and natural allure, it is no wonder tweed garments remain a popular item of clothing for people from all walks of life. Here are some examples of types of tweed for anyone looking to learn more.

Harris tweed

Marked with a trademark Orb stamp, Harris tweed is an incredibly soft and warm fabric that can be worn all winter long to provide comfort even in the coldest weather. The best thing about Harris tweed is that it is woven by the islanders in the Outer Hebrides who conform to the high-quality standards of the Harris Tweed Act of 1993. With Harris tweed, the fabric with the trademark Orb stamp has been handwoven to perfection and durability.

Donegal tweed

Manufactured in Ireland’s County Donegal, the Donegal tweed is a popular example admired for its numerous options in terms of patterns and styles. Donegal tweed may be known for its plain-weave cloth that features colourful warp and weft, but it also has other popular style options including herringbone and checked patterns. Indeed, garments and accessories made of Donegal tweed are not only aesthetically pleasing but versatile as well.

Saxony tweed

Saxony is a charming German state known for its world-famous traditional handicrafts – and Saxony tweed is one of them. Saxony tweed is made of the long, soft and smooth Merino wool that’s considered the best in the world. Merino wool is popular for its porosity, which allows the fabric to absorb any sweat and moisture from the skin. It is also UV-resistant, which makes it a great fabric option no matter the season.

Herringbone tweed

This tweed type got its name from its herringbone pattern that visually resembles the skeleton of a herring fish. It is one of the most favoured tweeds in modern fashion because of its elegance and versatility in style. With its distinctive V patterns, beautiful aesthetics and balanced symmetry, one can instantly recognise a Herringbone tweed even at first glance.

Shetland tweed

The Shetland is a small breed of sheep that originates in the Shetland Isles in Scotland. The tweeds made from Shetland wool feature colours and patterns in multiple varieties. What makes the Shetland tweed stand out is the crimped structure that makes it more elastic than other types of tweeds. Having a garment made out of Shetland tweed will allow the wearer to stretch comfortably and move with ease.

Beloved for its earthy colours, versatility and practical appeal, tweed is a wonderful fabric, and having a few garments of this kind in any wardrobe will bring a sartorial advantage. Garments made using tweed are durable and provide real insulation, serving the wearer for years or even decades to come.

The editorial unit