Designers of tomorrow help shape future of heritage brand Harris Tweed

IT is one of Scotland’s most famous brands and has been handwoven by islanders for centuries.

Now fashion business students from Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) are helping to shape the future marketing of Harris Tweed.

The fourth year students have created a range of official products through a 12-week project in partnership with Harris Tweed Hebrides.

Creative director Mark Hogarth challenged the students to design innovative garments and accessories that move the fabric into new markets. They had three months to research and design their own range, working from the university’s Fashion Factory to bring their designs to life.

Harris Tweed is handwoven in the Outer Hebrides from pure virgin wool and protected by statute – the distinctive orb stamp highlighting its authenticity. Harris Tweed Hebrides was formed in 2007 at Shawbost Mill on the Isle of Lewis and has led the revival of the industry, repositioning it as a fashion fabric used by labels including Chanel and Alexander McQueen.

Mr Hogarth said: “We have managed to diversify the Harris Tweed industry beyond the traditional gent’s jacket, but we are constantly looking for inspiration.

“Investing in the talented students at GCU is a mutually beneficial partnership where we get to see our fabric in conceptual design and the students get to work with a luxury fabric.

“We feel there is room for growth in womenswear, childrenswear and streetwear and we will look to promote this partnership to a worldwide audience.”

Senior lecturer Linda Shearer said: “To work with Harris Tweed Hebrides this year has been brilliant. They are an established Scottish heritage brand now recognised globally.”