The Tweed
From Scottish fields to the wardrobes of powerful women, Tweed has established itself as a wardrobe essential. Le Lissier goes back with you to the origins of this timeless fabric, to the heart of 17th century Scotland.
MODEST ORIGINS
The history of Tweed begins in the heart of the Scottish countryside where farmers suffered from the hazards of a particularly harsh climate. To protect themselves from this, they weaved carded wool into twill. Result: a solid insulating fabric that protects against humidity . Our Granny Tweed continues to fulfill these roles wonderfully and fears neither rain nor stains! If, originally, the choice of colors was not carefully considered and depended mainly on the nature of the wool, Tweed lends itself very easily to coloring. Our magnificent Liseret Rouge are proof of this.
A LEGENDARY FABRIC
Legend has it that the name Tweed comes from the mistranscription by a London cleric of the Scottish word “tweel” (from the English “twill” which means twill) into “tweed”. Another hypothesis attributes the origin of the name to the Scottish River Tweed. It crosses Scotland and in particular the valley of the same name famous for making clothes.
A SEDUCED NOBLITY
In the 19th century, Tweed became a “gentleman’s” affair. » The English nobility took a liking to stays in the countryside and acquired estates to indulge in hunting and fishing. These outdoor activities obviously required suitable clothing. The noble city dwellers then discovered the qualities and comfort of Tweed. In its wake, the English middle class of the 19th century adopted it for sporting activities such as golf, cycling or tennis.
Quickly, the estates created their own Tweed to distinguish themselves. Around 1850, Prince Albert, the new owner of the Balmoral estate, was among the first to launch this trend with “Balmoral Tweed.” » This fabric became an element of identification in addition to being very useful and comfortable. Over time, Tweed has become a ground for creativity. Which allows us today to offer you models with pretty dressy patterns like Golden Tweed.
The son of Prince Albert, future Edward VII, a great fashion influencer, initiated the democratization of Tweed by integrating it into his urban wardrobe. Copied by the great world, he made it a fashionable attribute. Ultimately, the arrival of Tweed at Le Lissier was only the logical continuation of its evolution. From technique to fashion there is only one step: sneakers .
UNCONTESTED GLORY
In the 20th century, Gabrielle Chanel modernized Tweed. Alongside the Duke of Westminster, she discovered the fabric when it was still widely considered masculine. In 1954, she created a “chic and shocking” suit based on the model of an Austrian elevator attendant's uniform. This suit became emblematic of the House of Chanel. It was the essential piece of the great ladies of the second half of the century, Jackie Kennedy in the lead.
The success of Tweed has never been denied and it is certainly not our Grandma's Tweed that will say the opposite. It perfectly embodies what Tweed is: a resolutely contemporary historical fabric , with an elegance matched only by its solidity. No doubt Coco would have appreciated it…
Tweed spans the ages. From a peasant fabric, it has become a fabric synonymous with elegance and refinement. Worn by men as much as women, available in clothing, accessories and shoes, it remains a must-have. Thanks to its multitude of patterns, Tweed is ideal for combining comfort with unparalleled style and elegance .
Pictures :
Nick Wood: @thewhitewood
@Siredwards.com
@downton abbey
@journalduluxe.fr