Tartans and tweeds, synonymous with the Scots have played a very big part in fashion over the years. In the seventy's for instance, tartan seemed to be always part of the fashion scene mainly due to the pop culture at the time, instigated initially by the Scottish band the Bay City Rollers, then Rod Stewart and at the end of the decade it played a key part of punk fashion. The predominant pattern throughout this decade was the red Royal Stewart tartan, with these previous associations it did fall out of favour for a while but soon bounced back as part of the country look. Tartan and tweed fabrics have been around for hundreds of years, so it's no surprise their fashionability does ebb and flow.

Tartan unbelievably was indeed banned once by an act of law. In 1746 the English brought in the Dress Act. This was an attempt by the government to control and suppress the Scottish highland clans who hated being under the rule of the English. This was eventually repealed in 1782 and was instantly adopted as Scotland's national dress. Contrary to popular belief the original tartan patterns were simply different regional patterns and the wearer simply chose the pattern and colour they preferred and interestingly it wasn't until the nineteenth century that tartan patterns were associated with particular clans and families. 

2018 sees the welcome return of tartans and tweeds in a big way and ahead of the fashion trend is the Duchess of Cambridge who wore a fabulous tartan coat by Miu Miu at Sandringham over Christmas. All the big fashion houses such as Versace, Balenciaga and Alexander McQueen are leading the charge and it looks like a trend that's not going away any time soon. The predominant theme seems to be a mix and match of various tartans and tweeds.

Accessorising is a great way of adding this fashion fabric to your outfit and we have the perfect collection to help you achieve this. Our stunning range of Bonfanti handbags have married Italian style with traditional Harris tweeds and tartans that are trimmed with luxury Italian leather. With a range of styles, patterns and colours, there's bound to be one to suit your taste. There is also the option of a trendy weekend bag and wash bag. 

Images: Courtesy of Vogue