What is my favourite item of clothing?
I’ve been asked this question many times for local newspaper and fashion blogs. I have always struggled to answer it truthfully. I tend to buy a few good wardrobe stables such as a good pair of jeans, a lambswool jumper and a classic white shirt but I’ve never fallen in love with an item of clothing. I dress comfortably so that I can chase around after my little rug rats.
My most expensive items tend to be outerwear because I always feel cold and love to feel wrapped up, even in the summer. I’ve known about Harris Tweed for a while but when I was contacted from Cocoon Luxury Wear, I was over the moon when I found out they make the most stunning Harris Tweed capes which allow me to wrap up quickly and easily, but in a really stylish item of clothing that I have grown to love the more I wear it. Cocoon Luxury Wear is a Northern Irish company founded by Sara Hall, mother of two.
What is Harris Tweed?
Renowned for its quality, warmth and durability, Harris Tweed is the only fabric in the world governed by an act of parliament. The tweed is still made in the time-honoured way specified in the 1993 Act of Parliament; ‘With 100% pure virgin wool, dyed, spun and finished in the outer Hebrides and woven by hand by the islanders at their own homes on the islands of Lewis, Harris, Uist and Barra.’
This unique Act is policed by The Harris Tweed Authority who monitors all production on the Islands on a daily basis. Every 50 metres of length of fabric is checked by their representatives before being stamped by hand with the ORB which is found in every genuine Harris Tweed garment. No other fabric can call itself Harris Tweed. Having bought myself to sew and invested many hours researching patterns and fabrics, I really appreciate the quality of the material, the time and attention to detail required to ensure that a hand made fabric is always consistent but you really can see it in the final product.
Cocoon Luxury Wear are currently working on the AW 16/17 line which will include a 5 new designs featuring 100% cashmere ladies cape, a men’s tweed blanket throw, a fitted ladies cape and a fashion forward piece designed to turn heads.
The new collection will feature Harris Tweed as usual and are very excited to introduce a Donegal Tweed range.
Finally, I can say I now own an item of clothing that I love. It is a glamorous piece of alternative outerwear for autumn and winter, and now that spring has arrived and we will be spending more time at the North Coast I’m looking forward to wearing my Birkin Dusk collared cape for the longer evenings ahead. Teamed with a light shirt or jumper. The cape is a trans-seasonal item that I believe is a great addition to anyones wardrobe.
It’s clear to see why Cocoon Luxury Wear just received the Best Newcomer Fashion award at Belfast Fashion Week.
What I’m wearing: Birkin Dusk collared cape
• Grey check tweed with a red and blue overcheck
• Vintage inspired design
• A-line silhouette
• High collar, front-slit openings, double pockets
• Double breasted leather buttons
£220
Free Worldwide Shipping Included! Delivery estimated 2/3 Days. (the packaging is just as beautiful as the cape).
Thank you again Cocoon Luxury Wear
Lucy xx