Tweed is a timeless fabric that has been around for centuries and has been an essential part of fashion in the UK for just as long, thanks to the thickness and heaviness of the fabric, which makes any tweed garment perfect for withstanding cold temperatures and wet climates. While you may think of tweed as something that stuffy old men wear, we’re here to tell you that that’s not the case at all, and tweed suits, sport coats, overcoats, and even accessories can seamlessly fit into every dude’s wardrobe.

Read on for everything you need to know about tweed, the different types of tweed, how to style tweed suits and other garments, and more.

What Is Tweed?

Tweed is a rough, woven fabric that’s thick, heavy, and somewhat stiff. It is typically made from wool and is often woven using different colored threads to give clothing garments a patterned look, usually in vertical lines or small squares. Tweed is also moisture-resistant and durable, as it’s been a staple in British and Scottish fashion for centuries, and can stand up to the country’s wet climates.

Historically, tweed was worn while hunting, riding, and/or shooting, and is the perfect fabric to withstand harsh weather conditions and cold temperatures. Additionally, tweed is mainly used in semi-formal to formal outerwear; you won’t find button down shirts, shorts, or casual clothing items made of tweed. 

Are There Different Types of Tweed?

There are actually a few different types of tweed: Harris Tweed, Donegal Tweed, and silk tweed. Harris Tweed is a luxury brand known for its extremely high-quality fabric and is made in literally only ONE location in the world: the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Think of Harris Tweed like champagne: if it’s not made in the Champagne region of France, it’s just sparkling wine.

The same goes for Harris Tweed; if it’s not made in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, it’s just regular old tweed, my friend. What makes Harris Tweed so special is that it’s hand-woven in a weaver’s shed on the island, specifically by crofters who live on the island. Harris Tweed is also known for its iconic logo.