When dreaming up the designs for our dressy special occasion looks, we couldn’t help but think back to all of the lovely lace we set eyes on in Scotland. As it turns out, the Scots have mastered a lot in the way of the textile world – from their famous Fair Isle patterns to their iconic Harris Tweed – and lace is yet another craft they lay claim to their repertoire. Follow along to learn more about the inspiration behind our Scottish lace inspired designs!
On the magical Isle of Hebrides, under cozy thatched roofs of traditional “blackhouses”, crofters have been hand-weaving Harris Tweed for centuries. See how our designers found inspiration in age-old techniques.
While in Edinburgh, we had the unique opportunity of touring the beautiful Heriot-Watt University (HWU), a highly specialized school, world renowned for its innovative approach to education. While the school has many amazing undergraduate programs, their Textiles and Design production facilities have been named the best in the UK by international fashion icons like Vivienne Westwood. When planning for the season, we thought it would be an incredible opportunity to collaborate with their students on exclusive Tea designs.
In typical creative fashion, we drafted a design brief explaining the collaboration. Students were given the chance to submit their original designs to be featured as a part of our winter collection. So many fabulous concepts were submitted! We’re thrilled to share the inspiration and unique technique behind the designs of our talented finalists.
Take a trip back in time, when hand-weaving was a way of life in the Highlands, and follow our steps below to create your own hand-woven patterns!
We are makers. Twice a year, Tea designers pack their bags and set off to a new destination in search of inspiration. They immerse themselves in the culture and customs of foreign worlds, taking in all the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions, and seeking to make them familiar. What they come back with? A deep appreciation for the local people who preserve the country’s unique history, tell its stories, and practice its time-honored traditions.
They arrive back in our San Francisco headquarters with suitcases filled with unforgettable memories, experiences, and a genuine passion and understanding for this newfound place. Then they get to work, translating it all into globally inspired, thoughtfully-made clothing to be shared and experienced by little citizens everywhere.
Follow our talented team of designers to the rugged and remote Shetland Islands, where local artisans have been spinning and knitting virgin wools into colorful Fair Isle knits for centuries.
Furry faces are everywhere in Scotland…in fact there are more flocks of sheep than there are Scots! Away from the busy streets of urban Edinburgh, lies miles of cozy, rural countryside where hill farms are the way of life and counting sheep is near impossible. We learned a lot about Scottish farm life on our visit, and made many farmyard friends along the way. Here are a few fun facts about our favorite cuddly creatures.
This fall, Scottish florals are blooming all around…and we’ve got a bouquet of beautiful new prints for your little ladies! Learn more about Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the famed designer who inspired many of the lovely floral graphics featured on our girls dresses and tees.