Tartan is a patterned material, mostly consisting of horizontal and vertical bands criss-crossing and intersecting with each other in multiple different colours, forming either square or rectangular shaped patterns. Tartan was traditionally made with woven wool but is now manufactured in several materials. Tartan is an immediately recognisable tradition of Scotland and over the years, has become a symbol of not only fashion, but also family, oppression, and rebellion.
Perhaps the most well-known use of tartan was for the identification of Scottish clans. A different tartan would represent a different clan from each geographical area. These tartans were developed by dyeing the cloth with plants, berries or trees and weaving simple check patterns of two or three colours into wool. These tartans were worn by the people of that area or district; thus, the clan tartan was born.
Although tartan is considered the traditional dress of Scotland, tartan is popular across the world. The V&A’s latest exhibition “Tartan” celebrates the global influence that the pattern has had and our Operations Director, Jacqui, decided to enjoy a wee bit of culture at the weekend with a visit to the exhibition. Keep reading to see how she got on!
Jacqui started off with a spot of lunch at the Apex City Quay hotel conveniently located on the right just as you come over the Tay Bridge from Fife. It was then a short walk along the waterfront which has seen lots of development recently including the Dundee Cycle Hub as the area is very popular with cyclists. There are also water features, lovely gardens and a man-made beach.
Arriving at the V&A there was time for a few photos outside as Jacqui modeled the new Best of Scotland Holidays tartan which was designed to celebrate our 40th year in business this year. All the team have lovely serapes and the Chief Executive Duncan has a very fetching pair of trousers. The colours in the tartan are taken from our company logo with the green mountains and countryside and the blue representing rivers and lochs.
The exhibition was a real journey through time looking at different clans and their tartans and then bringing it right up to date with pieces from well-known designers such as Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood. The exhibition is running until Sunday 14th January 2024 and is highly recommended to any enthusiasts of Scotland, history, fashion, or all of the above!
For more information and to book your tickets, visit the Tartan exhibition at V&A Dundee. If you’re planning to attend, we can customise your East of Scotland tour to include even more of the region’s top attractions.
