STACY LOMMAN : NEW YORK - Luxury Apparel

STACY LOMMAN : NEW YORK  -  Luxury Apparel

7.30.2013

Harris Tweed Gets Feminine

 
STACY LOMMAN : FALL 2013
Harris Tweed plaid blazer with leather trim and pant

They call themselves the "Guardians of The Orb."  Established in 1993 through an act of Parliament, The Harris Tweed Authority is an organization responsible for promoting and maintaining the authenticity, standard and reputation of the world famous Harris Tweed cloth which can only be defined as: 

"Handwoven by the islanders at their homes in the Outer Hebrides, finished in the Outer Hebrides, and made from pure virgin wool dyed and spun in the Outer Hebrides."   



STACY LOMMAN : FALL 2013
Harris Tweed navy jacket with feather sleeves and pant

In the early 1900's Harris Tweed was highly sought after among the upper class of the Outer Hebrides and, over the decades, it has been embraced by the world.  To say that this fabric is special would be an understatement -- it is exceptional.  In today's world of mass manufacturing, it is extremely rare and most definitely refreshing to encounter such integrity, attention to quality and unwavering standards.  I consider my garments held to the same standards, so Harris Tweed seemed like the perfect fit and I felt quite fortunate to be able to work with this world famous cloth.

STACY LOMMAN : FALL 2013
Harris Tweed houndstooth coat with silver lizard buckle closure

Harris Tweed is typically used in menswear but, when styled the right way, it crosses over nicely into the women's arena.  I have always appreciated the structure of a men's jacket and the strength associated with men's suiting -- it definitely influences me as a designer.  So, when I started working with Harris Tweed last season, I was thrilled.  


STACY LOMMAN : FALL 2013
Harris Tweed herringbone vest and pant

I had an Edwardian theme in mind for Fall 2013 before putting pen to paper.  I looked through the Harris Tweed patterns, made my selections and started sketching.  This is, hands down, the most fun part of the design process for me!  I incorporated additional fabrics from other mills in the mix along with Harris Tweed and, as I sketched and played with the swatches, the initial Edwardian inspiration morphed into a slightly Gothic collection -- which I love.  The result is a group of mysterious, luxurious and strong pieces that straddle the line between masculine and feminine.

STACY LOMMAN: FALL 2013
wool check corset and wool plaid skirt

STACY LOMMAN : FALL 2013
brocade corset and silk/cashmere "bustle" skirt

STACY LOMMAN : FALL 2013
cotton moiré tuxedo jacket and satin pant


6 comments:

  1. Love this collection -- and the history of Harris Tweed!

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  2. Such a great post! I love the brief history lesson, I didn't know that much about the fabric!

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  3. I love the history behind the fabric and the way you incorporated that into your line. Great post!

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  4. Amazing architectural statements as always and such an informative post! I'm in love with the way the long plaid skirt falls.

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  5. Stunning work Stacy. It has been fun watching this collection develop. I love the Gothic theme.

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  6. Really great work Stacy! My family is from the Outer Hebrides and I doubt a one ever wore Harris Tweed. Good peasant stock was not rich enough for Harris Tweed.

    There is a Royal Tartan Society in Scotland that I am a member for -- defending the cloth, as it were.

    Hope all is well! :) Christine

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