5 Scottish menswear brands that you should be wearing
From a handsome heritage label to a sunglasses start-up, here are our favourite fashion brands from north of the border…
Words: Jonathan Wells
When it comes to national dress, Scotland has one of the strongest. And, whether its sporrans or sgian-dubhs, the garments that make up the nation’s famed threads are known the world over. But, for all its pomp, ceremony and sophistication, there’s nothing outwardly practical or up-to-date about these traditional outfits.
Thankfully, a new guard of sharp Scottish dressers and designers have whipped out their shears, threaded their needles and established a new tradition; of sustainable, stylish modern menswear. Below, we’ve rounded up five of our favourite fashion brands to hail from north of the border — from a handsome heritage label to a sunglasses start-up. And not a kilt in sight.
Johnstons of Elgin, from Moray
First up, a heavy hitter (and consummate knitter) of Scottish style. Johnstons of Elgin was woven to life in 1797, and the brand pioneered the use of natural-toned tweeds as camouflage for Highland hunting parties. Over the years, the label perfected the arts of dyeing, spinning, weaving and finishing on site — and is now world-renowned (and holds a royal warrant) for its natty knitwear.
Each piece is an investment. But, if you’re looking for mainstay of your menswear collection, there’s nothing better than the brand’s roll-neck cashmere jumper — exceedingly soft and knitted with a soft rib to reduce weight. Johnstons of Elgin has also blended its world-famous cashmere with silk to create basic-but-elegant T-shirts — and used it to create simple scarves. We like the understated option below, in ‘Silver Bannockbane’ tartan.
Kestin, from Edinburgh
With almost two decades of fashion industry experience under his (presumably beautifully buckled) belt, Kestin Hare founded his eponymous label in 2015. Headquartered in his hometown of Edinburgh, the designer set out to redefine Scottish style by taking traditional ideas and introducing innovative techniques and materials into the mix. The result has been rousing to witness; the focus on sustainable sourcing and responsible manufacturing particularly praiseworthy.
It’s the colours that we like, with pops here and natural tones there. Take the below ‘Rosyth’ jacket, for example — a masterclass is statement dressing with a practical edge. Or these ‘Melrose’ socks, woven from premium merino yarn and created completely under one roof in Scotland’s best sock factory. The ‘Gladsmuir’ vest, with its two-way tonal zip closure, patch pockets, is another smart-casual stalwart.
Begg x Co, from Ayr and Hawick
Begg x Co has been making beautiful scarves, wraps and stoles (women’s fur shawls) in Scotland since 1866. But it’s a brand that has moved with the times handsomely — and today produces knitwear, accessories and homewares perfect for our stripped-back, sustainably-minded modern lifestyles. As with Scotland’s other leading labels, Begg x Co also upholds the highest standards of production — and can trace every fibre from goat to garment.
Finished with horn buttons, the ‘Aspen’ cardigan elevates the eco-credentials of chunky shawl collar designs by crafting it using undyed wool. The pea-green ‘Isla’ sweater is a unisex delight; a classic fit crewneck reimagined with a bright, bold pop of colour. And, a loungewear essential, the ‘Crovie’ casual knitted trousers have a certain slouch, cuffed hems and lashings of supersoft appeal.
Finnieston Clothing, from Glasgow
Built in Glasgow — a city renowned for its tough, reliable shipbuilding skills — this premium lifestyle label was launched in 2017. Using solely Scottish suppliers, materials and craftspeople, each garment is stitched to life with the spirit of this hard-working heritage, with collections featuring contemporary workwear-inspired garments — some of which even bear the names of long-closed local shipyards as a nod to the city’s past.
We particularly like the ‘Vancouver’ jacket, the heavier version of Finnieston’s ‘Anderston’ overshirt, with double chest pockets and a material patch recreation of a shipyard overtime ticket stitched on its inside. The ‘Conic’ beanie, manufactured exclusively by Robert Mackie, features characterful flecked detailing. And the ‘Stewarton’ sweater, with ribbed cuffs and collar, has a statement chest pocket cut from boiled wool.
Tens Sunglasses, from Aberdeenshire
The story of this sunglasses start-up began with a 2014 road trip through the Scottish Highlands — in search of sunshine. A creative cadre of photographers found they were spending much of their post-production time adding warmer shades and colours to their images, so decided to develop sunglasses that would apply these filters and tones to real life. One crowdfunding campaign (and many prototype pairs) later, and Tens was born.
And there are tens of different designs on offer. Mostly made from Italian acetate, all the frames are designed in Scotland — and some of our favourites include the Clubmaster-mimicking ‘Larsson’ sunglasses, the aviator-style ‘Forrest’ frames and the double-browed ‘Dakota’ design.
Want more Scottish brands? From tailors to whiskymakers, these are the top Scottish Royal Warrant brands…
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