Scotland Fashion Week: A New Rhythm from Scottish Veteran-Turned-Designer
Scotland Fashion Week came to a heartfelt close this year with a celebration of Scottish creativity, and we were proud and delighted to be part of it. Thistle & Cloth made its runway debut with a fashion collection that created a bit of a stir. Our collection was noted for its wearability and style, with a distinctive tartan theme running throughout! It certainly did turn a few heads for its style, wearability, and unmistakably Highland flair.
Taking part in Scotland Fashion Week was a milestone moment for Thistle & Cloth, marking our official debut in the world of sustainable Scottish fashion.
From Military Music to Modern Design
After more than 13 years serving with the Royal Air Force Music Services and the Royal Corps of Army Music, I’ve swapped marches and parades for patterns and pleats.
My journey into design began during my time with the Royal Regiment of Scotland, where I became fascinated by the craftsmanship behind traditional kilt construction. That passion has now evolved into Thistle & Cloth, a brand that blends heritage, creativity, and purpose.
A Tribute to Heritage and Harmony
Our debut collection is a personal reflection of that journey, honouring Scotland’s iconic tartans while embracing modern, sustainable design.
Every piece was created using Scottish-woven fabrics, from historical weaves like Black Watch to newly designed tartans such as Outlandish and Rebel.
Highlights from the collection included:
- A reversible tartan wrap dress, designed to flatter a wide range of sizes and minimise fabric waste.
- A full-length ladies’ kilt in The Skirl tartan — a nod to the sound of the pipes that once set the rhythm of my military days.
- A modern interpretation of the Great Kilt for women, created in memory of the heroines of Scottish history.
Each garment combines hand-finished detailing, clever cutting, and timeless design, championing the values of slow fashion and circular design.
“Windswept Highlander” on the Catwalk
When asked backstage what look we were going for, my answer was simple: Windswept Highlander.
It captured exactly what I wanted to express: the raw beauty of the Highlands, the strength of our culture, and the individuality that defines Scottish design.
Our collection at Scotland Fashion Week was about more than clothes; it was about celebrating Scottish craftsmanship, creativity, and community. For one night, the spotlight was firmly on our special corner of the Highlands, and I couldn’t have been prouder.
Building a Brand with Purpose
Beyond the catwalk, Thistle & Cloth is about community and craftsmanship. I work exclusively with Scottish mills to keep production local and sustainable, and I’m developing collaborations that offer training in textile skills, pattern cutting, and hand-finishing.
Supporting veterans, serving soldiers, and their families is also a key part of my mission, helping others find new purpose and creativity, just as I did.
Fashion has become my new rhythm — a way to blend the discipline of my past with the creativity of my future. At Thistle & Cloth, every stitch tells a story, and every design is made with heart, heritage, and hope.