Finding it hard to mix classic Scottish style with modern fashion? You’re not alone—many people do.
You are central in this fashion evolution, balancing heritage with today’s styles. We are here to help with our extensive knowledge of Scottish fashion and practical experience.
In this article, we’ll provide a clear plan to mix traditional Scottish attire with modern trends:
- Explore Historical Influences
- Understand Popular Fashion Styles
- Learn About Key Designers
- Recognize Major Influences
Start reading now to give your wardrobe a Scottish touch with modern style and see how easy it is to elevate your look.
Historical Evolution of Scottish Fashion
Scottish clothing has a rich history and shows pride in the Highlands. Tartan patterns, once practical, became clan symbols. After being banned, kilts and tartan returned in the late 18th century, boosting Scottish pride.
Queen Victoria’s fondness for Scottish fashion in the 19th century made it popular again. Today, Scottish clothing combines old and new styles, thanks to designers like Vivienne Westwood and Christopher Kane.
3 Centuries of Scottish Fashion
18th Century
Highland Dress: In the 18th century, Highland men wore the Great Kilt, a large tartan cloth wrapped around their body. It showed their clan’s pattern and was practical for rough terrain.
Bonnets and Brogues: Men also wore bonnets with clan crests and sturdy leather shoes called brogues. The bonnet showed clan identity, and the brogues were tough for rough conditions.
Women’s Fashion: Women wore long skirts, fitted tops, and shawls, influenced by European styles. Tartan sashes were used for formal events, adding a Scottish touch.
19th Century
Kilt Evolution: In the 19th century, the Great Kilt was replaced by a smaller, easier-to-wear kilt. The Prince Charlie jacket and sporran were added to update the Highland dress.
Victorian Influence: Mid-19th century Scottish women wore Victorian-style crinolines, corsets, and skirts. Tartan became more popular after Queen Victoria visited Scotland.
Highland Revival: After the Highland Clearances, people became more interested in traditional Scottish dress. The kilt and tartan were seen as symbols of Scottish Culture.
20th Century
Post-War Fashion: In the early 20th century, kilts and tartans were mainly worn for special occasions, not daily life.
Fashion Designers: Mid-century Scottish designers Jean Muir and Pringle of Scotland became well-known. Muir made simple, stylish dresses, and Pringle was famous for its high-quality knitwear.
Punk Influence: In the late 20th century, Scottish fashion became more rebellious. Vivienne Westwood used tartan in bold, new ways for the punk scene.
See Also Music in Scotland
5 Popular Fashion Styles in Scotland
Traditional Highland Dress
Kilts: Kilts are a key part of Traditional Scottish Clothing, worn by men for special events like weddings. They are made of tartan wool and usually come with a sporran (pouch), a sgian-dubh (small knife), and a Prince Charlie jacket.
Tartan Patterns: Tartan patterns are used in Scottish clothing to show different clans or regions. They appear in kilts, scarves, skirts, and more.
Ghillie Brogues: Ghillie brogues are traditional Scottish shoes with long laces that wrap around the ankles. They are worn with kilts to complete the look.
Streetwear
Description: In Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scottish streetwear features bright, global-inspired styles. Popular items include oversized hoodies, graphic tees, and unique sneakers.
Local Designers: New Scottish designers are mixing traditional tartan with modern clothes. This blend gives a fresh look that combines current urban fashion with Scottish heritage.
Sustainable and Ethical Fashion
Description: Scotland is now focused on sustainable fashion, using eco-friendly materials and recycling. This shows a commitment to protecting the environment.
Local Brands: Prickly Thistle and Ninety Percent are leading the way. Prickly Thistle uses local wool and avoids waste, while Ninety Percent uses eco-friendly materials and fair labor.
Casual Chic
Knitted Wear: Scotland is famous for its knitwear, with brands like Pringle of Scotland and Johnstons of Elgin leading the way. Scottish clothing often has cashmere sweaters, cardigans, and wool accessories that are warm and stylish.
Tweed: Harris Tweed, handwoven in the Outer Hebrides, is a key part of Scottish fashion. Its durability and unique patterns make it popular for jackets, coats, and caps.
Layering: Due to Scotland’s changing weather, layering is important. People often combine scarves, cardigans, and outerwear to stay both practical and stylish.
Sportswear and Athleisure
Description: Athleisure in Scotland is comfortable and practical, designed for active lifestyles. It includes clothes for activities like hiking, rugby, and cycling, offering durability and modern style.
Brands: In addition to global sportswear brands, Scottish companies like Findra and Meander are notable. They offer high-performance gear with innovative designs, made for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
See Also Sports in Scotland
5 Notable Scottish Fashion Designers
Christopher Kane
Background: Christopher Kane, born in 1982 in Newarthill, Scotland, is a famous designer. He studied in London and became well-known for his bold designs.
Style: Kane uses unique materials, bright colors, and futuristic styles. His work often explores themes like sexuality and nature.
Achievements: Kane has won awards such as Designer of the Year. His brand, Christopher Kane, is known for its innovative fashion and impact on Scottish clothing.
Bill Gibb
Background: Bill Gibb, a Scottish designer from Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, gained fame in the 1970s. His distinctive approach to fashion significantly impacted Scottish clothing.
Design Aesthetic: Gibb was known for his elaborate knitwear, patchwork, and decorative details. His designs used historical costumes and folklore, making clothes with a dramatic and imaginative look.
Achievements: Gibb’s creations were favored by celebrities like Twiggy and Elizabeth Taylor. His influence was strong in the 1970s fashion world, and he remains a celebrated figure in British fashion history despite his death in 1988.
Jonathan Saunders
Background: From Glasgow, Jonathan Saunders studied at the Glasgow School of Art and Central Saint Martins. He launched his label in 2003, earning recognition for his skills in textile design and print.
Design Aesthetic: Saunders uses bright colors and patterns with flowing shapes. His style is modern and clean.
Achievements: He has won awards and was chief creative officer at Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) from 2016 to 2018, updating the brand.
Holly Fulton
Background: Holly Fulton, born in 1977 in Edinburgh, is a well-known Scottish designer. She studied at Edinburgh College of Art and the Royal College of Art in London.
Style: Fulton’s designs include Art Deco patterns, detailed decorations, and bold prints. Her work combines bright colors and different textures with both modern and classic styles.
Achievements: Fulton started her label in 2009 and quickly gained fame. She has won awards, including the Elle Style Award for New Designer.
Graeme Black
Background: Born in 1968 in Dundee, Graeme Black is a Scottish designer celebrated for his work in high-end fashion. He has collaborated with prestigious labels like Armani and Ferragamo.
Style: Black’s designs are elegant and use luxurious materials with careful tailoring. His approach combines classic techniques with modern touches.
Achievements: In 2005, Graeme Black founded his label, focusing on luxury womenswear. His work has received numerous awards and he is highly respected in the fashion world for his creativity and expertise.
4 Key Influences in Scottish Fashion
Historical Events and Politics
The Highland Clearances: During the Highland Clearances of the 18th and 19th centuries, many Highlanders were forcibly removed from their lands, which significantly impacted Scottish culture and fashion. This period marked a reduction in the everyday use of traditional Highland attire, while tartan and kilts became romanticized symbols of a bygone era.
Victorian Romanticism: Queen Victoria’s fascination with Scotland and her frequent stays at Balmoral Castle in the 19th century sparked renewed interest in Scottish fashion. Tartan gained widespread popularity across Britain and Europe during her reign, reinforcing its role as a key element of Scottish Costumes.
Scottish Climate and Landscape
Weather: Scotland’s cool, rainy, and windy weather has shaped Scottish clothing significantly. The focus is on practical and durable items like wool coats, waterproof jackets, and layered outfits. Wool, tweed, and cashmere are preferred for their insulating qualities.
Natural Scenery: Scotland’s varied scenery, from the rugged Highlands to the green Lowlands, inspires fashion choices. Colors such as heather purple, moss green, and deep blue are common in Scottish clothing, reflecting the country’s natural hues. Patterns found in kilts and other garments often echo the textures of Scotland’s environment.
See Also National Food of Scotland
Art and Architecture
Art Movements: Scottish designers use ideas from art styles like Art Nouveau and modern art. Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s geometric and floral designs have a big influence.
Contemporary Art Scene: Art in Edinburgh and Glasgow inspires Scottish fashion. Designers use current art trends for prints and patterns.
Architectural Heritage: Scotland’s buildings, from old castles to modern structures, inspire fashion. Scottish clothing often includes strong lines and detailed patterns that reflect this architectural
Media and Celebrities
Media Influence: Scottish clothes are featured in local and global magazines like Vogue. The TV show Outlander has made kilts and tartan more popular worldwide.
Celebrity Endorsements: Scottish stars like Ewan McGregor and Shirley Manson wear Scottish clothes, increasing their popularity. Global stars like Sarah Jessica Parker also wear them, and the Royal Family’s use of tartan shows its style.
Influencers and Fashion Events: Scottish fashion bloggers and Instagram influencers mix old and new styles for younger people. Fashion events in Edinburgh and Glasgow highlight local designers and attract global buyers.
Scottish Fashion: A Recap
Scottish fashion combines traditional styles like kilts and tartan with new designs. Brands like Harris Tweed and Christopher Kane offer both classic and modern Scottish clothes. Today, Scottish fashion is also using eco-friendly materials and digital tools to update styles, mixing old and new trends.
