Harris Tweed is more than a fabric, it’s a living tradition, protected by Act of Parliament and founded in 1846. Woven entirely by hand in the homes of islanders in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, every metre carries a story of rugged landscapes, artisanal skill, and national pride. Legally protected by the Harris Tweed Act of 1993, it remains the only fabric in the world governed by its own Act of Parliament.
The cloth is made from 100% pure virgin wool, dyed and spun in the Hebrides, and handwoven on treadle looms without electricity, a practice passed down through generations. It’s finished in the islands and authenticated by the Orb certification mark, which can only be applied after strict inspection by the Harris Tweed Authority.
Distinctive qualities of Harris Tweed:
Durability & Density: Exceptionally hard-wearing with a weight and texture suited to outerwear and tailoring.
Depth of Colour: Achieved by blending pre-dyed wool, creating complex flecks and heathers that mimic the local landscape.
Heritage and Sustainability: With a single-country supply chain, natural fibres, and low-energy production, Harris Tweed remains as sustainable as it is storied.
Etymology & Identity: The term “tweed” was born from a 19th-century misreading of “tweel” (Scots for twill), but Harris Tweed has long outshone the name, it is its own category.
Once favoured by the British aristocracy and Queen Victoria’s estate, Harris Tweed is now embraced by fashion houses, interior designers, and modern streetwear brands across the globe, from Chanel to Nike, from J. Crew to Brooks Brothers.
Three mills now produce Harris Tweed: Kenneth Mackenzie Ltd (Stornoway), Carloway Mill (Carloway), and Harris Tweed Hebrides (Shawbost). The cloth is woven by self-employed artisans, each following their own rhythm, preserving not just a tradition, but an identity.
