VISUAL
Summer Tweed Essentials...
It’s often said that tweed is exclusively reserved for Autumn and Winter months as it’s traditionally known for its warmth and durability. However, with its sturdy texture and rich depth of hues, this fabric has the ability to exude an air of sophistication and transcend the seasons. We’ve pieced together four looks, featuring tweed essentials, you might not think to pull off the rails again for summer. With our easy guide you will be able to wear these items over and over again.
Melina Shirt
Feminine Buckle Ballerinas in Black £295
Monaco Sunglasses in Gold
Brand Snaffle Block-Heeled
Carmen Baby Pink Bustier Sundress
Hat Box shoulder bag in Ivory Patent Croc
Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh
Necklace
these adaptable neutrals in your wardrobe, simply sprinkle in a few bursts of color, and voila, you’ve curated a signature, timeless ensemble that exudes sophistication and style.
4 Must-Have Wardrobe Staples
Why not infuse your summer wardrobe with a touch of tweed sophistication? The possibilities are endless, and the results are sure to leave you feeling chic, confident, and ready for whatever the summer may bring.
Cat-Eye Sunglasses
Monogram Slides in White Croc
Embracing Heritage
With a Hint of Tweed
Words | Julia Bullen
Photography | Marlena Krolik
Model | Bronte Claire Mitchell
As we move into the Summer season, many of us begin contemplating the inevitable wardrobe switch which usually involves packaging away our puffers and stashing our sweaters. One unexpected wardrobe main stay this Summer is tweed. Once reserved for the colder seasons, tweed is now making its way up the fashion hierarchy and into more summery styles, and through modern adaptations the material has turned into a year-round favourite.
Traditionally worn by Scottish farmers, tweed acted as a functional fabric, providing protection against the harsh weather conditions of the Highlands. It was meticulously made from dyed, spun, and woven wool, creating a durable material that could withstand the rigours of outdoor labour while offering warmth and insulation. However, Coco Chanel’s introduction of tweed in the 1920s launched the fabric into the mainstream, with a collection which combined slim skirts, collarless jackets and bags all with a nod to this traditional texture. Since then tweed has woven its way into wardrobes as a timeless staple and stands alone as a fashion emblem in its own right.
Often used as a symbol of tradition and heritage, tweed is a paramount example of how historical textiles continue to influence contemporary fashion. Its timeless appeal and versatility has enabled tweed to evolve beyond its traditional roots. Through a fusion of classic tweeds with wools, silks, and cottons, designers have reimagined this once heavy-duty fabric into a lightweight material, capable of being fashioned into a myriad of styles.
With sustainability being at the forefront of all our minds, looking for more durable fabrics is a must. The outdated notion of clothes lasting only a season has gone, making tweed an ideal investment for those of you seeking longevity and style in your wardrobe choices. Plus, Vogue’s 2024 spring wardrobe checklist showcased Alexander McQueen’s tweed jacket, our first cue to spruce up our closets for the sunnier days ahead!
Originally linked with country style, tweed has gradually made its way into city dressing, which is now more accessible than ever. Achieving the ideal fusion of city and country style begins with embracing tweed’s timeless allure and exploring inventive ways to incorporate it into your wardrobe. Whether you gravitate towards a sleek office ensemble or a casual day-out look, tweed presents limitless opportunities for expressing your individual style with sophistication and flair.
By incorporating tweed texture into any outfit, you immediately elevate its appearance. Whether aiming for a minimalist aesthetic or seeking to inject intrigue and refinement, the inclusion of tweed instantly achieves that polished charm.
So, I’ve handpicked four tweed essentials that are absolute musthaves for your Summer wardrobe. Starting off strong with a palate refresher, the tweed cardigan, a go-to for a quick dose of sophistication. Its classic appeal and refined texture make it the perfect choice for those fast-paced days when you need to look effortlessly chic in a flash.
A tweed cardigan is an extremely versatile layering piece that can be easily dressed up or down. This Summer, I would recommend selecting lighter tones or gentle neutrals, allowing for co-ordination with your seasonal wardrobe staples.
Consider pairing it with a straight fit denim jean and crisp button-down shirt for a stylish yet “smasual” look. If you’re heading out for brunch with the girls, complete your outfit with a pair of comfortable flats like the Ganni Feminine Buckle Ballerinas for added flair and comfort. And for a smarter look style your tweed cardigan with a classic loafer and tailored trousers, whether you’re attending a business meeting or enjoying a dinner out, this outfit is sure to make a lasting impression.
My second wardrobe must-have is a slingback Tweed-look heel. The unique texture of tweed adds visual interest to Summer outfits while the slingback infuses a touch of femininity and sophistication to complement any warm-weather wardrobe. Dune’s Slingback Courts in Neutral are the perfect tweed-look heel for all of those attending a garden party this Summer and say goodbye to sinking into the grass – these block heels offer both style and stability for all your outdoor soirées. Consider styling it with a flowing midi dress complemented with accents of gold jewellery, a neutral lipstick and a delicate spritz of Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh, the ultimate floral scent. Transform this ensemble effortlessly into the ultimate outfit for The Royal Ascot in June by adding a fascinator and a statement clutch.
So, now you’re probably looking for that day to night outfit, Look no further! Allow me to introduce you to the perfect solution: Tweed tailored shorts! Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk or enjoying lunch al fresco, these shorts are your next musthave to keep you feeling cool and chic all day long. Designed to accentuate the natural contours of the body, these shorts offer a tailored silhouette that complements all body types. With a blouse bodysuit, open-toe sandals, and a shoulder bag as your foundation, you have got an outfit suitable for any occasion.
And lastly my final must have Summer wardrobe staple is undoubtedly a handbag. From countryside excursions to urban adventures, a tweed handbag is the perfect timeless fashion statement. Combining practicality, style, longevity, and versatility in one essential accessory, a tweed handbag not only fulfils functional needs, but also adds a subtle rural flair to every outfit. Whether you’re heading to a country music concert, outdoor festival, or leisurely picnic, a tweed handbag serves as the perfect companion. Paired with a satin midi skirt, square neck top, cowgirl ankle boots, and a fedora, it effortlessly completes the quintessential country-inspired outfit, ensuring you’re both stylish and prepared for any summertime adventure.
With these versatile tweed pieces in your Summer wardrobe, you’ll be ready to conquer the season in style. So, why not infuse your Summer wardrobe with a touch of tweed sophistication? The possibilities are endless, and the results are sure to leave you feeling elegant, confident, and ready for whatever the Summer may bring.
‘Seaside Style Meets Sustainability’
With the whole collection at her fingertips Julia Bullen dives into Whale Of A Time’s new SS/24 Collection inspired by nautical nuances and chartered by sustainability. Redefining the meaning of coastal style, the new collection surfs on waves of details and colour embodying the essence of ocean-friendly fashion with every stitch and seam.
Under the leadership of Ellie Wales, a visionary entrepreneur who embarked on her journey at the youthful age of seventeen, Whale Of A Time Clothing burst into the scene in 2016. Fuelled by a passion for art and textiles cultivated during her Sixth Form years, Ellie’s vision was clear, to craft affordable, eco-forward attire infused with a vibrant and distinctive youthful flair.
Beginning with the design of three sweatshirt styles, Ellie took the bold step of manufacturing a small batch and introducing them to her close circle of friends and family. Emphasising sustainability and creativity as core values, her sweatshirt line quickly gained traction, resonating with eco-conscious consumers, and setting the pace for the brand’s evolution.
Since those early days, Whale Of A Time has experienced remarkable growth, transcending its origins as a mere online platform to become a fixture at various prestigious shows and events nationwide. From the vibrant atmosphere of Hunstanton
Tennis Week to the prestigious grounds of Badminton Horse Trials, the opportunity to engage directly with customers has been instrumental in the brand’s journey.
Today, Whale Of A Time stands as a beacon of casual clothing that transcends time. Based in Norfolk the brand specialises in premium-quality and sustainable garments inspired by the great outdoors. Rooted in a passion for adventure and a steadfast commitment to environmental responsibility, the brand offers a curated collection of timeless pieces meticulously crafted in Britain.
With a deep-seated connection to the farming industry and an unwavering dedication to excellence, Whale Of A Time Clothing embodies the timeless elegance and heritage of coastal summer style.
Inspired by coastal living and classic British craftsmanship their new Spring/Summer collection captures the essence of adventure and elevated style. Comprising of trendy quarter zips, fashion-forward jeans and striped long-
sleeved t-shirt the new collection allows you to pair pieces with ease for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your next wardrobe update or simply indulging in the pleasure of fashion, Whale Of A Time’s new collection makes every ensemble a statement, ensuring you stand out wherever you go.
So, let’s dive into it! Starting out with their fresh take on one of their most sought-after products, the quarter-zip sweatshirt, the brand is ever so excited to reveal their new ‘Evesham Unisex Quarter Zip.’ Celebrating its heritage with a captivating nautical theme, this garment brings a modern twist to timeless classics. Crafted from premium cotton, this unisex sweatshirt ensures both comfort and style, making it the perfect choice for any occasion.
Whether you’re headed for a relaxed day out with friends exploring the city or off on a weekend escape the ‘Eversham Quarter Zip’ perfectly complements a laid-back atmosphere.
An absolute must-have wardrobe staple in the latest collection are the colour-blocked t-shirts entitled the ‘Whitby T-Shirt.’ Effortlessly blending simplicity with classic style, this premium organic cotton tee is a testament to their quality craftsmanship. It’s the ideal piece for curating the perfect travel outfit if you’re embarking on a long flight. Or if you’re embracing a casual work dress code, pair it with tailored trousers or jeans for a polished yet relaxed look that prioritises comfort without sacrificing style.
An item which is sure to turn heads is the ‘Henley Long Sleeve T-Shirt.’ This boat neck design evokes timeless coastal charm, creating a seaside chic look that’s suitable for all types of gatherings. Crafted from premium cotton, the soft and breathable fabric ensures comfort all day long. Pair this piece with their ‘Signature Denim Shorts’ for a relaxed beachside stroll or dress it up with white trousers for a stylish brunch with the girls. Whether you’re by the shore or in the city, this striped t-shirt promises elevated elegance in every outfit.
As much as Whale Of A Time are renowned for their sweatshirts and design work for casual outerwear, for 2024’s new collection they have heavily focused on creating head-to-toe outfits which this season includes a logo-embroidered Mom Jean.
Made from high-quality denim, the ‘Signature Denim Mom Jean’ for the modern woman. No matter your size, mom jeans offer a chic and timeless look that can be readily styled for any occasion. Stocked in two contrasting neutral colourways, the ‘Signature Denim Mom Jeans’ allow you to seamlessly transition from day to evening. The versatility of these jeans are second-to-none allowing you to partner them with different pieces. Whether you choose a tailored blazer or a plain tee, their ability to blend with unique styles makes them a no-brainer for this season. Another favourite of mine in the Spring/ Summer collection is their ‘Porthcurno Polo Shirt,’ revived in new colourways, making it the perfect transitional garment.
The colours are fun and bright, injecting a vibrant energy into your wardrobe for the upcoming season. The last item in the collection is their ‘Signature Denim Shorts’ which can be found in colourways, ‘Light Blue’ and ‘White.’
The attention to detail has not been overlooked throughout this collection and this doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the denim shorts. Whilst the frayed hem adds a touch of casual charm, the stitched logo on the back pockets help to further elevate the design with the iconic whale tail brand-
ing. These denim shorts could be worn for beach days paired with a breezy tank top and sandals or paired with a graphic tee and sneakers for an easy festival outfit.
The relaxed fit and high-quality denim ensure comfort and durability, making them a wardrobe essential for the sunny season ahead. From their humble beginnings driven by a passion, Ellie Wales has transformed her vision into a flourishing brand known for premium-quality sustainable garments.
Their latest Spring/Summer collection is a testament to Ellie’s ethos and creative vision for ‘Whale Of A Time’ and we have continued to see this throughout every seasonal collection and product launch. Seamlessly combining style with functionality, Ellie caters not just for the younger wearer, but designs in mind with everyone. So, if you are looking for a wardrobe update this season look no further, shop this collection, and see where the adventures take you.
Shop this collection at www.whaleofatimeclothing.com and follow them on instagram @whaleofatimeclothing.
Signature Denim Mom Jeans in Light blue
Porthcurno Polo Shirt in Blue
Signature Denim Shorts in White
