What Is Tweed And How To Take Care Of It | Alan Paine
We don’t profess to be the experts in the athletics field, but we do know a thing or two about country living and field sports. In fact, let’s push British modesty aside for a second; we can absolutely profess to be the experts when it comes to tweed. So look no further and sit back as we give you the ultimate guide to tweed clothing and how to care for it.
In country fashion, tweed has been a wardrobe staple since the 1800s. It has quite literally stood the test of time. It’s timeless, durable and built to last a lifetime when cared for properly. Warm, weather‑resistant and naturally hard‑wearing, tweed remains one of the most reliable fabrics for country wear and field sports.
What Is Tweed?
Today, tweed is a quintessentially British fabric, used to add style and class to almost any outfit. Made from tightly woven dyed wool, tweed comes in a wide range of weights, weaves and colours, making it one of the most versatile materials in British country fashion. Whether you prefer classic herringbone, bold checks or modern colourways, tweed offers durability, warmth and unmistakable heritage appeal.
Tweed was originally invented by British farmers in the 18th century and was designed to keep them warm and dry throughout harsh winters. It didn’t take long for the British aristocracy to adopt this durable fabric for their estate staff uniforms. Although it’s hard to believe given today’s amazing colourways, tweed was originally patternless. As demand grew, new patterns were introduced and the gentry began commissioning cloth specifically for their estates.
By the 1840s, tweed production had improved significantly and the aristocracy were discovering just how versatile and weather‑resistant the fabric really was. It soon became the fabric of choice for fishermen and hunters, who realised its muted tones worked as natural camouflage in the field. Over time, tweed evolved into the heritage fabric we know and love today - a cornerstone of British country fashion, celebrated for its durability, warmth and timeless appeal.
What Are The Different Types Of Tweed?
Each tweed pattern creates its own distinctive look, so if you’re trying to find the best tweed for you, it helps to understand the differences.
Twill tweed
The simplest of all tweeds, recognised by the diagonal pattern running through the fabric. It’s classic, durable and widely used across country clothing.
Overcheck tweed
A twill weave that’s overlaid with a large check in a contrasting colour. This is the traditional country look many people picture when they think of British tweed.
Herringbone tweed
An intricate pattern that closely resembles fish bones, which is exactly where the name comes from. It’s timeless, smart and one of the most popular tweed styles.
Striped and checked tweed
These tweeds feature bold stripes or checks in varying widths and colours. They offer a more statement look while still keeping that heritage feel.
Estate tweed
Usually, though not always, a herringbone weave overlaid with a checked pattern. Estate tweeds were historically commissioned by landowners to identify staff on their grounds, giving each estate its own signature cloth.
Barleycorn tweed
Made from a coarse weave that, when viewed closely, resembles barley kernels. It has a textured, rugged appearance that feels very traditional.
Houndstooth tweed
Named for its resemblance to the jagged black teeth of a dog. It’s bold, distinctive and instantly recognisable.
Plain tweed
Despite the name, plain tweed can still feature bold stripes of varying widths, similar to tartan. It’s simple, versatile and easy to style.
We Aren't Done Yet Though!
We have our own range of high quality tweeds, to match your style and chosen pursuit.
Combrook
Our best‑selling Combrook collection comprises pure wool and soft‑handle tweed, tightly woven especially for us using a range of twisted coloured yarns. This craftsmanship creates the stunning contemporary and classic colourways the range is known for, giving you premium country clothing suitable for almost any occasion.
Rutland
Our most robust tweed, the Rutland collection offers a range of stylish yet highly functional pieces designed to be extremely hard‑wearing and durable. This is the tweed you choose when you need clothing that can take on tough weather, long days in the field and everything country life throws at it.
With a dedicated selection for children too, we’ve crafted functional tweed clothing for the whole family, ensuring everyone can enjoy the same level of comfort, protection and heritage style. Rutland is the perfect choice for gamekeepers, beaters and anyone who spends their days outdoors enjoying their favourite country pursuits. It’s reliable, rugged and built to perform season after season.
Surrey
Our Surrey tweed is a limited edition collection of finely tailored men’s and women’s classic tweed garments, crafted in exclusive colourways and designed for a range of your favourite British country pursuits. Whether you’re heading out for a day in the field or dressing for a social event, this collection offers timeless style, premium craftsmanship and that unmistakable heritage look.
Looking After Your Tweed
Durable and robust are terms you’ll have heard us use to describe our tweed, and it really is. However, like most things in life, it’s not completely indestructible, so caring for your tweed correctly is essential if you want it to last a lifetime.
After those wet days in the field, it’s important to allow all of your tweed clothing to air fully. This helps any trapped moisture escape and prevents long‑term damage to the fibres.
When it comes to deeper cleans, tweed isn’t like other materials and you definitely don’t want to do anything that could harm these classic wardrobe staples. All of our wool and wool‑blend tweed garments are recommended for dry cleaning only to preserve the structure, colour and longevity of the fabric.
Our 100 percent cotton twill Axford tweed‑effect clothing is a little different and can be safely machine washed at 30 degrees.
Caring for your tweed properly ensures you always look your best whenever you choose to wear it, whether that’s a long day in the field or a stroll to the local on a warm summer’s day.
Shop Men's & Women's Tweed Clothing
When To Wear Tweed Clothing
Tweed is versatile enough to be worn for a variety of occasions from formal to smart casual. Take a look at when and how you can wear tweed with confidence.