Royal Stewart Scottish Wool Scarf

Few patterns are as instantly recognised as the Royal Stewart. It is the personal tartan of the British monarch, and the pipers of the Black Watch, the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and the Scots Guards wear it. It takes its name from the royal House of Stewart, a family whose name comes from the office of High Steward of Scotland, first held by Walter fitz Alan around 1150. The sett was first published in 1831 in James Logan’s The Scottish Gaël, and it has since become a universal tartan that anyone may wear. It has been a favourite of musicians and designers, and its bold red remains one of the most celebrated colours in Scottish dress.

This scarf is made in Scotland from 100% pure extra fine lambswool in a mill with 250 years of heritage. A vivid red ground is crossed by bands of blue, green, yellow, black and white, and the check holds its bright colours in a lively, assured balance. It gives a leather jacket, a plain white tee or a charcoal coat an easy flash of colour.

Twenty-nine patient stages bring each scarf to completion, and the last is the most traditional: the lambswool is brushed by hand with teasels, which raise the fibres into a soft, billowing finish. The result is a scarf of understated luxury, light in the hand and gentle in warmth, its fringed ends adding a graceful finish, made to be worn on any occasion and treasured for years to come.