Tweed – no gentleman’s wardrobe would be complete without it. Originating in Scotland in the 18th Century, tweed is a rough, woollen fabric that can be woven with a plain weave, twill, check or herringbone structure.
There are thought to be over four thousand unique tweed colour combinations and patterns in use. The name tweed itself is said to be down to a slip of the tongue, whereby a cloth merchant in London misread the word tweel, the Scottish version of twill, for the name Tweed, a river in Scotland.
Style icons including Madonna, HRH the Prince of Wales and our beloved childhood friend Mr Toad have all given tweed the seal of approval. A three-piece tweed suit in brown or grey is perfect for making a style statement at a formal event, but tweed doesn’t have to be reserved for weddings and business.
Here are five modern and easy-going ways to wear tweed.
1. The Checked Tweed Jacket
Khaki & Orange Check Harris Tweed Jacket with Velvet Collar, £199, Hawes & Curtis
Show off in this Check Harris Tweed jacket with velvet collar – quintessential British style at its best. Made from genuine Harris Tweed, this single-breasted jacket comes with notched lapels, three exterior pockets with flaps and breast pocket.
The jacket is finished beautifully with bespoke touches including a luxe velvet collar and burnt orange lining.
2. The Tweed Herringbone Blazer
Signature Harris Tweed Herringbone Tailored Fit Blazer, £60, F&F at Tesco
Look sharp in this Signature Harris Tweed herringbone blazer by Florence & Fred – handwoven from genuine Harris Tweed cloth, the price might make you blink.
Style with a white shirt, navy chinos and brown loafers and belt for an easy smart casual look. For an edgier look, style with a t-shirt and black skinny jeans.
3. The Stretch-Tweed Field Jacket
Musto Shooting Checked Stretch-Tweed Field Jacket, £495, Mr Porter
This checked stretch-Tweed field jacket by Musto Shooting from Mr Porter is a modern way to wear tweed. Added stretch provides extra comfort and wearability combined with the refined luxury of tweed.
Field jackets are a big trend for men and this iconic brown and red check print will always be in style.
4. Lighten Up in Pastel Shades
ASOS Slim Blazer in Blue Summer Tweed, £70, ASOS
Tweed doesn’t have to be traditional or austere. Lighten up for warmer months with this pastel tweed blazer from ASOS in pink or blue summer tweed.
5. Tweed and Trainers
Work the athleisure menswear trend by adding a pair of tailored tweed jogging bottoms to you daytime look.
ASOS Slim Smart Joggers in Tweed, £30, ASOS
Vans Tweed Sk8-Hi, £39, End Clothing
Another option is a pair of slim-fit cropped trousers in tweed like this pair from River Island. Style the look with a white t-shirt, bomber jacket and Converse or white plimsolls.
Black Tweed Slim Cropped Trousers, £35, River Island
