Do you have an item of clothing in your wardrobe that’s 40 years old and still stylish enough to wear? For King Charles, the answer is a resounding “yes.” The monarch has been donning the same double-breasted tweed coat since the 1980s. What makes it so enduring? It’s all about tweed—a fabric that has long been synonymous with British elegance and sustainability.

The Origins of Tweed

Tweed, a tightly woven woolen fabric, originated in Scotland and Ireland. Known for its durability and natural insulation, it became the go-to fabric for cold weather. Its patterns, like twill, herringbone, and houndstooth, further add to its charm. Historically, tweed was the fabric of choice for the aristocracy, who wore it for outdoor activities like shooting and riding. By the mid-20th century, luxury fashion houses like Chanel brought tweed to the global stage, making it a must-have for the modern wardrobe.

The Sustainable Fabric

Tweed’s timeless appeal isn’t just about style. It’s also highly sustainable. Martin Crawford, a consultant at Savile Row tailor Anderson & Sheppard, explains that tweed is 100% natural, renewable, and biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact. Harris Tweed, for instance, is crafted by hand in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland using British wool. Its authenticity is protected under The Harris Tweed Act of 1993, ensuring high-quality production.

Not all tweeds are created equal, though. Ruth Masson from Harris Tweed Hebrides advises looking for certifications and transparency in production processes to ensure you’re buying the real deal.

Durability and Longevity

One of tweed’s standout qualities is its durability. Its tightly woven structure makes it resistant to wear and tear, while wool’s natural antibacterial properties mean it requires minimal maintenance. As Professor Rebecca Earley of the University of the Arts, London, puts it, tweed is “generally self-cleaning,” and airing it outside can freshen it up without dry cleaning.

The fabric’s resilience and classic designs have made it a favorite among vintage enthusiasts. From Harris Tweed to Irish Donegal tweed with its signature flecks of color, these garments can last a lifetime and even gain value over time.

Tweed in Modern Fashion

Tweed has seamlessly transitioned into contemporary wardrobes, appealing to a diverse audience. Luxury brands like Dior and British designers such as Vivienne Westwood have embraced tweed, creating collections that honor its heritage while reimagining it for modern tastes. High-street brands like Marks & Spencer and fashion rental platforms like Hurr have also seen a surge in demand for tweed, driven by its association with the “preppy countryside” aesthetic.

Even celebrities have joined the tweed renaissance. Royals like the Princess of Wales and international stars like Gigi Hadid have embraced tweed ensembles, proving its cross-generational and global appeal.

A Fabric for the Future

As fashion leans toward sustainability, tweed remains a beacon of eco-conscious design. Modern brands, like the B Corp-certified Baukjen, are innovating with blends of recycled materials, ensuring tweed continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.

Whether in the form of a vintage coat, a chic Chanel jacket, or a modern-day suit, tweed’s journey from the Scottish Highlands to global runways underscores its enduring legacy. Timeless, versatile, and sustainable, tweed is more than a fabric—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship and style that transcends trends.