Choosing tartan or tweed colour
Colour isn't just a detail in a tweed or tartan bag, it's the story the bag tells.
Tweed
Tweed often holds the colours of the landscape: heathered purples, moss greens, peat browns, sea-washed blues.
Iconic tweed- Lovat Mill, Harris Tweed, Bute, Lochcarron,
Understanding tweed colour depth
Tweed often contains five to ten colours woven together, creating rich texture and surprising versatility. The final look depends on the yarns, the weave and the pattern, many mills will have there own designers and style but also weave cloth for other companies and designers. They will produce both patterned and single-colour cloth in traditional heritage ranges but may also weave very contemporary ranges too.
Tartan
Tartan carries the colours of identity: clan heritage, family history, colours of the landscape and a sense of belonging.
Understanding tartan
Tartan is a world of its own there are thousands of patterns, colours and stories woven into cloth. You'll find generic tartans, clan tartans, regional designs, and even charity or commemorative tartans, which makes tartan a genuinely meaningful, timeless choice for gifting.
Tartan is a world of its own there are thousands of patterns, colours and stories woven into cloth. You'll find generic tartans, clan tartans, regional designs, and even charity or commemorative tartans, which makes tartan a genuinely meaningful, timeless choice for gifting.
Bold vs subtle
Bold tweeds and tartans make a statement, and suit someone who loves colour and creativity. Subtle patterns blend effortlessly with most wardrobes and offer a more timeless elegance, neither is more “correct” than the other, it's really about what you'll reach for.
Matching colour to your wardrobe
A few starting points, depending on what you already wear most:
Neutrals for everyday versatility
Bold colours for personality and statement
Soft tones for a classic look
Patterns that complement what you already wear, rather than fight it
Choosing tartan for a gift
If there's a family tartan - MacGregor, Cunningham, or otherwise - that's often the most meaningful starting point. Place-based tartans (Edinburgh, the Isle of Skye) or a favourite charity tartan are lovely alternatives if there's no family connection, and more generic tartans like Grey Granite or the Spirit of Scotland work well when you're choosing more on colour than heritage.
If you cant decide then you can always mix them together!