Milan Fashion weekend to feature Harris Tweed

At a time of resurgence with tweed truly back in vogue, the specially curated selection celebrates Harris Tweed’s prestigious heritage with iconic designer, couture and Savile Row creations, as well as High Street counterparts.

The event, conceived by UKTI and the Harris Tweed Authority as part of a broader programme for V&A Dundee’s Adventures in Design show at the XXI Triennale International Exhibition, continues the theme by celebrating the international appeal of the indigenous Scottish fabric.

Vibrantly encapsulating the allure, modernity and distinctly British spirit of Harris Tweed, the presentation will commemorate the innovation, artisanal craft and unique design of this luxury fabric and the designers who have adopted it as their own.

Featured brands will include John Galliano’s couture Maison Margiela, Vivienne Westwood, Margaret Howell, Peter Pilotto, Huntsman, Kara Keddie, Kathryn Sargent and Topman, alongside contemporary interior pieces from Blackhouse.

Chairman of Harris Tweed Authority, Norman Macdonald says: “The opportunity to feature at the esteemed men’s fashion hub, speaks volumes of the position Harris Tweed IS now in and we couldn’t be happier to be bringing the brand’s special heritage to Milan.”

Having recently doubled production of its signature handwoven fabric to 1.7 million metres a year to meet increasing global demand from luxury brands, Harris Tweed is now exported to over 60 countries, supplying leading designers including Chanel, Comme des Garcons, J.Crew, Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen.

Celebrated British designer Margaret Howell commented: “A lover of wild open spaces, I feel an affinity for Harris Tweed.

“Weaving on hand looms creates a depth and complexity of texture that can’t be imitated by a mechanical process.

“The resilient wool, the designs in earthy colours reflect the landscape, the climate and the skills of the local people who produce it.”

Philip Long, Director of V&A Dundee, said: “Harris Tweed is an iconic Scottish design success, which combines authentic craft traditions with some of the most exciting contemporary fashion designers in the world.

“We’re thrilled this event in Milan is presenting global fashion houses alongside emerging designers such as Kara Keddie, connecting to our exhibition of British design innovation for the Milan Design Triennale.”

This prestigious installation will be in situ at BASE Milano across the weekend of 18-19 June as part of Milan Men’s Moda Uomo S/S17, alongside the V&A Dundee show Adventures in Design.