What better excuse than Wool Week to share with you one of my all time favourite British brands?
An initiative set up by the Campaign For Wool, Wool Week is a week long festival of events and workshops celebrating wool in all its guises. The Campaign for Wool is a global endeavour initiated by its patron, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, to raise awareness amongst consumers about the unique, natural and sustainable benefits offered by wool. Encouraging collaboration between an international community of woolgrowers, major fashion designers, retailers, manufacturers, artisans and interior designers, the Campaign has been instrumental in educating consumers about the versatility of wool, and reconnecting them with its myriad uses.
Founded in 1797, Johnstons of Elgin is steeped in over 200 years of history, producing some of the finest fashion, accessories and homewares from British wool. The company prides itself on its philosophy of reducing their environmental impact and making sure that they treat their employees, suppliers and partners in a positive and responsible way. My family have long been fans; having visited Elgin often over the years Johnstons was always a pit stop. I am still the proud owner of a Johnstons Tam-O-Shanter, though admittedly no longer wear it as it was bought when I was four, and I have been the receiver of many a Christmas scarf over the years. I currently have a beautiful fuchsia and purple lambswool throw that takes pride of place on my bed during the winter months, and I can but dream of saving my pennies for a cashmere version.
In honour of this legendary establishment, and of course of Wool Week, I've picked my top five favourite pieces from Johnstons' current collection. The Double Breasted Tweed Coat (£295) is perfect for the chilly autumn weather that's now upon us, while the Cashmere Wrist Warmers (£25) will undoubtedly be a godsend when the chilly winter sets in; fingerless gloves are an essential for social media upkeep during the winter months. The stunning Shawl Collar Cardigan (£339) in 100% cashmere is an ideal piece for layering over my favourite winter tea dresses, and of course who could do without a cosy pair of Fairisle Socks (£34.95) to keep your tootsies warm? But my ultimate favourite has to be the Cashmere Tartan Stole (£299), a sweepingly glamorous Scottish statement piece if ever there was one. If only they made it in my mother's Farquharson tartan!
Love Laurel x
