Welsh wool stands out amongst many other natural fabrics for its ease of use, durability, and its ability to be sustainably sourced and repurposed. With the right creative talent working with Welsh wool, it can also be a timeless and chic addition to any wardrobe.
There are some fashion brands that support the ethical sourcing of Welsh wool directly from sheep, collaborating with farmers to support sustainable farming techniques. The skill and craftsmanship that goes into working with Welsh wool can be seen in each of these brandâs design portfolios.
Celtic & Co
Celtic & Co is a family-owned business that specializes in working with Welsh wool and creating modern, easy to wear clothing for the family. Fresh off the success of the Ugg boot, which the two owners created, they started the Celtic Sheepskin Company, now known as Celtic & Co.
The brand is a powerhouse of not only clothing, but accessories, homewares, slippers, and more. The womenâs line is highly developed with intricate knitwear, basic tees, dresses, and outerwear. They also pay homage to their beginnings in footwear with woolen slippers for the family.
A large portion of Celtic & Coâs designs feature Welsh wool reimagined into modern and accessible pieces, while mixing in other high quality materials that will last years in your wardrobe. Celtic & Coâs aim is to use sustainably sourced material that has longevity and versatility for anyone with any fashion aesthetic to work these materials seamlessly into their wardrobe.
Clare Johns
Clare Johns has a philosophy of creating clothing and accessories âfrom farm to hangerâ with a focus on Welsh wool. The brand was started by Clare Johns, who actually raises sheep herself on her own farm, utilizing their wool in her designs. While Johns received formal training in fashion, she didnât have much experience working with wool until she was able to start working on the farm.
The rest was history, and now Clare Johns expertly crafts clothing and accessories for men, women and children, working with local farmers to get material to supplement her own wool. Her designs are refined and classic, honoring Johnsâ Welsh heritage and the beauty of wool with a country twist.
Designs from this fashion brand are approachable, easy to incorporate into any wardrobe, and streamlined enough that they will stand the test of time both practically and in fashion. One can find basic knitwear that can be worn each season, or items with special details that stand out.
Clare Johns is perfect for the laid back fashion lover who wants to invest in pieces that will work in their wardrobe for years to come.
Melin Tregwynt
Melin Tregwynt has been able to honour the tradition of Welsh weaving through their eclectic range of clothing, homewares, and accessories. One of the things that sets this brand apart is their ability to work with fascinating combinations of colours and patterns to create distinctive, one of a kind designs.
Melin Tregwynt works with their signature patterns woven in their own mill, which has been an active mill since the 17th century. Once all the woolen patterns go through the loom, they are refined and structured into jackets, capes, kilts, footwear, and the like. The brand is also well known for their stunning and warm wool throws and pillows among other designs.
Clothing from Melin Tregwynt is made in modern silhouettes with an element of vintage structure, offering statement pieces one can add to their wardrobe. Patterns range from neutral to vibrant, with designs being a conversation piece in their own right for anyone who wears them.
What Sets Welsh Wool Apart?
These three fashion brands, as well as many more, utilize Welsh wool as its one of the best naturally sourced fabrics to work with. While it does take some technical know-how to work with wool, itâs a relatively easy material to make into a plethora of garments.
Welsh wool is also hypoallergenic, allowing wearers with sensitive skin enjoy the warmth and delicacy of wool. The material is also able to be repurposed into something new, extending its life well beyond the first garment. Welsh wool is also biodegradable, and is able to be sourced ethically.
Investing in Welsh wool is adding sensible and enduring pieces of clothing that will stand the test of fashion and time.
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