DRESSED TO KILT
Let this historic fabric become a stylish staple in your home, write Colin and Justin.
Tartan Day in Canada, a focus on all things Scottish, was celebrated across Canada this year on April 6. Sure, we're somewhat biased, but tartan is undeniably woven (excuse the pun), into the rich history of Scotland (and beyond), as tightly as the strands that encompass each bale from which the beautiful fabric is constructed.
Across history, the various linear patterns have dressed kings, queens, military divisions and civilians, and have come to symbolize specific families — and their battles. The punkrock fraternity (not least The Sex Pistols), and style-setting innovators such as Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood, introduced the fabric's rich history to a modern generation of rebellious fashion aspirants.
Today, admirers can express their love for all things Celtic by exploring the glens and valleys of the World Wide Web. And who better than two canny laddies to guide you!
For a unique source of Scottish items, visit anta.co.uk — a magical brand that stocks plaid cushions, tartan throws, checked carpets and thistle-based table lamps. One peek, and you'll be whisked off to the breathtaking land of Outlander. Lang may yer lumb reek!
Find moody tartan wallpaper at Wayfair: perfect for those who'd like to adorn their digs with traditional Scottish drawing room esthetics. Add time-worn leather sofas and horn chandeliers, then reach for your crystal decanter ( brim full of smoky Lagavulin), and imagine yourself bundled up in a Glencoe farmhouse.
Scope out Laurel Foundry, Modern Farmhouse Classic Plaid Wallpaper at wayfair.ca.
And how about tartan carpet? A timeless choice, historic and refined, the Dress Stewart Tartan Khaki Rug features an oatmeal background accented by vibrant tangerine and teal blue graph work for a subtle, yet colourful, interplay. Visit ruggable.com.
We admire design that nods to the past — the Scottish Deer Major Malcolm print from fabfunky.com is especially appealing. With various matting styles, our favourite is the “antique book” option.
On the wider commercial plane, designer powerhouse Ralph Lauren has made plaid part of his DNA. Over the years, the fabric has appeared as fashion, upholstery and accessory dressing, his now synonymous range appearing as the heritage-inspired motif across “Hudson” barware, an indulgent crystal collection that features delicate tartan patterns fused into glass.
It's worth checking out the Dressed To Kilt website, (dressedtokilt.com). Its subject, a glittering annual event that's billed as the world's most prestigious Scottish fashion show, was co-founded in 2003 by Sean Connery and philanthropist Geoffrey Scott Carroll.
This year's theme was: “Dress for Adventure — From Caledonia to Canada” and the fun party rolled out as a tribute to Scottish fashion, the pursuit of camaraderie and the great outdoors, in both Canada and Scotland.
Hitting the runway was a roster of strutting boldface names, as well as, yours truly!
But wait: let there be no mention of another Dressed to Kilt outing (that time in New York), where one of us — who imbibed a lil' too much whisky — tumbled from the runway, literally taking out a gaggle of front row fashionistas.