Exploring Regional Tweed Styles: Donegal vs Clare vs Kerry
Tweed is an excellent choice for durability and style, and it has been synonymous with Irish heritage for centuries. However, there are many different types of Irish tweed, each with its own texture and colour combinations. Our tweed caps, jackets and clothing are stunning additions to your wardrobe, and you’ll find tweeds of various heritages in our collection.
Weaving and knitting have been fundamental in the history of fashion in Ireland, and have also helped to sustain communities here for centuries. The earliest example of woven cloth discovered in Ireland dates back to around 1600 BC, and garments such as tweed jackets and caps have become stylish symbols of Ireland all over the world. Let’s take a look at what makes Irish tweed special, and then we’ll deep dive into the different types of tweed.
The Story of Irish Weaving
Ireland’s best-loved export is arguably the gorgeous textiles and iconic clothing that originated in the rural weaving communities, and Irish linen, Aran knitwear and Irish tweed have all enjoyed worldwide celebrity status in recent years. Irish tweed is differentiated by region, and each area has historically produced cloth that echoes the stories of the people who created it. As a result, we now have a rich array of tweed types, including many textures, colours and styles we love.
For many years, tweed was woven on handlooms, and this labour often took place by the fireside, inside the home. Dyeing of fabrics and knitting or weaving might also have been done in the community, with women gathering together to carry out these tasks. However, as the Industrial Revolution changed the economy, the industry began to move into factories, and workers became employees. Today, the demand for high-quality, unique items has reversed this trend, and many of the artisan weavers we work with carry out their work in small workshops or mills, relying on traditional equipment and skills.
In our world of fast fashion, these durable fabrics and timeless skills are more important than ever, and we aim to ensure that they continue to be passed down through the generations. Taking weaving back to its roots means valuing the time and skill taken to create unique garments, rather than choosing mass-produced, machine-made clothing. The Hattersly looms used by expert weavers at Mucros Weavers, for instance, are almost two hundred years old and give a unique finish that cannot be copied by modern technology. Heritage fabrics such as tweed are a great alternative to the throwaway fashion we see on the high street, and designers all over the world have embraced tweed in their collections in recognition of this.
Ireland’s weaving industry has gone through many changes and is recognised all over the world for the quality of its fabrics and designs. Demand has soared for tweed caps, jackets and clothing made in Ireland since shows such as Peaky Blinders hit our screens, and the integrity and structure of Irish tweed make it a stylish, practical choice for wearing in all seasons. The different regions of Ireland have developed their own types of tweed, and these are easy to differentiate once you know what you are looking for. Read on to find out more about what makes each type special.
Donegal Tweed
Donegal tweed is a heritage fabric that is a popular choice for clothing and hats in Ireland and all over the world, with its unique character that combines quality and style. Donegal tweed has been woven in the county of Donegal, Ireland, for many years and is renowned for the colourful flecks that are woven into the fabric, making it easily recognisable. Many of our gorgeous garments are made with Donegal Tweed, giving them an attractive texture that combines many natural shades and tones.
Donegal tweed was first made in the 18th century by farmers in Donegal who began weaving to help increase their incomes at a time when crop farming was especially challenging. This enabled them to diversify and support their families through fabric production, with many families joining guilds and becoming part of the growing industry. Tweed was developed as an ideal option for the changeable climate in Ireland, and it endures today as a great choice that offers protection from the elements and celebrates Irish craftsmanship and style.
The distinctive coloured wool flecks in Donegal tweed are added to the fabric in the weaving process by adding colouring yarns into the warp and weft threads to create a characteristic speckled pattern. This is a highly skilled weaving technique which involves carefully balancing the colours and textures in the weaving process, giving a unique finish that also makes the fabric more durable and covers dirt and wear. You can see this in the Donegal Tweed Herringbone Flat Cap, which is a timeless style that is popular with men and women all over the world. It’s made from 100% tweed, and the unique flecked effect ensures that it won’t show small marks or dirt even after a long walk or working outdoors.
Donegal tweed is a medium-weight fabric with a tightly woven structure that is great for insulation and warmth. The classic patterns and rich colours make it a versatile option that works well for elegant jackets and sharply cut trousers, giving a light but structured look that is ideal for casual or more formal outfits. The Pamela Magee Donegal Tweed Coat in Green Herringbone is a great example, with a sophisticated style that is perfect over workwear or with dark denim jeans and boots. It’s a 3/4 length design that is woven in Donegal by Magee Weavers, with famous Donegal Tweed, and the signature flecks add a touch of character along with the moleskin trim on the collar and cuffs.
Kerry Tweed
Kerry tweed is made in County Kerry, and is well renowned for its high quality, durability and texture. Kerry Tweed is recognised for its distinctive patterns, and we have several stunning examples made by the skilled craftspeople at Mucros Weavers, which is located at Muckross House in Killarney National Park. Mucros Weavers famously produce individually woven scarves with a selvedge on each side to ensure a quality finish and longevity. Wools such as mohair and alpaca are often used in these gorgeous creations, and the hats and ponchos made from Kerry Tweed are popular all over the world.
County Kerry is famous for its stunning scenery, and the colours of the natural landscape inspire the colour combinations we see in the hats, jackets and blankets from this beautiful region. County Kerry is located on the Atlantic Coast, where the weather can be unpredictable, and it’s no surprise that the flat cap, with its warm, water-resistant qualities, originated here. It’s perfect for protecting against the elements on a walk or while doing outdoor activities, and the high-quality linings and finishes we use ensure you’ll be warm and cosy all day long.
The classic Kerry Tweed Flat Cap is a great choice that oozes quality, inspired by the traditional Irish pub cap. It’s made from 100% wool in the traditional peak style with sewn fastening, and is much loved by men and women all over the world. The popular forest green shade is a sleek choice that wouldn’t look out of place in the wardrobe of a Peaky Blinder, and we love the subtle, natural colouring and flattering shape.
Durability and practicality are not just ideal for clothing but are also important attributes for accessories such as bags and blankets. Our catalogue includes a wide variety of tweed handbags and washbags that will complement any outfit and look fantastic with your tweed jackets and skirts. The Kerry Tweed Washbag in Midnight Blue is an excellent addition to our range, made in Ireland with a leather trim and carry handle. This handy little bag makes a great gift, and it will last a lifetime if it is looked after properly.
Clare Tweed
Did you know that Clare Tweed, or Clare County Tartan, is not made in Ireland? Unlike Donegal Tweed and Kerry Tweed, the name does not simply denote the area in which the fabric is created. Clare Tweed is made in Scotland, from pure new wool, and is a medium-weight fabric used to make traditional kilts, skirts and trousers. Scottish and Irish tartans are worn by certain clans, and there are more than 2000 tartans to explore. Some clans may have more than one tartan, and more than one name may be associated with each pattern. Clare County tartan is associated with many names, including Aherne, Brogan, O’Brien and Day, as well as many others.
Clare Tweed is a green tartan that is said to be inspired by the landscape of County Clare, and it is part of the tradition of Irish regional tartans, which can be worn to celebrate heritage from the County Clare region. County Clare is in the province of Munster, on the west coast of Ireland, and it is characterised by beautiful landscapes and the rocky Atlantic coastline. The county has a long history, being part of the ancient province of Thormond that was divided and ruled by various Clans or families.
Taking Care of Your Tweed
The key to keeping your tweed in great condition is to look after it properly, and this includes regular brushing to remove dirt and dust. You should always check the cleaning instructions on the label of your garment, and do not be tempted to wash tweed items in the washing machine, as this is likely to cause shrinkage or damage to the fibres. It is possible to gently hand-wash some tweed items using specialist detergent, although dry cleaning is the best option for others. Tweed and wool items should always be dried flat, to protect the delicate fibres, and they should be dried and stored away from direct heat and light sources to preserve their shape and colour.
Tweed should be stored carefully to protect against moths and other pests, and cedar wood blocks are an excellent option to pop in your wardrobe for this purpose. It is important to hang or fold garments carefully to retain their shape and structure, and hats should be stored in hat boxes or hat stands to protect the crown and prevent flattening. Taking care of your tweed or wool garments will prevent them from becoming damaged, and this means that they will last for many years to come.
Irish Tweed at Weavers of Ireland
At Weavers of Ireland, our collection includes some stunning garments and homewares made from Irish tweed, and we are committed to our role in preserving these vital skills for future generations. Our hats, jackets and clothing are designed to be worn in a variety of ways and in all seasons, and the colours and textures are truly special. All of our products celebrate authentic craftsmanship, and we are always happy to demonstrate the provenance of our range.
We also stock a beautiful selection of sweaters, cardigans, scarves and wraps, as well as a selection of homewares and gifts for your loved ones. Our Irish caps, tweed handbags and Celtic jewellery are the perfect accessories to set your tweed and woollen garments off to perfection, offering you another opportunity to build a wardrobe that connects you with your Irish heritage. You’ll find something for every occasion in our collection, and you can visit us in-store or explore our range online to find a look you love.
