Essentially, tweed is a resilient workman’s fabric, famed for its warmth and water resistance. It’s made by dying and tightly weaving wool, usually in a plain, twill or herringbone pattern.  

Its roots are in 18th century Scotland, where dense woolen cloth was woven by layfolk to keep them warm as they worked outdoors. It spread over the years from the working class — those working the land — to the landowners themselves, who had become taken with its eye-catching colour palette. 

Indeed, it’s believed to have inspired the idea of camouflage military uniforms for the way it blended in so smoothly with its surroundings. The tailors of Savile Row meanwhile, who always have their finger on the fashion pulse, became lauded for their ability to cut handsome tweed weekend and adventure wear for their middle – upper class clientele. 

Thus, tweed became the unofficial uniform for shooting and hunting trips, fishing excursions and even mountain hikes. 

Today however, as we mentioned above, it’s being worn by multitudes for its striking look, superior comfort and smart casual air.