Analysis: Tradition with a twist as designers trawl the world for inspiration

TO TAKE a traditional fabric, production method or print, such as Fair Isle, tartan, pinstripes or Harris tweed, then rework it with a twist, is many a fashion designer's favourite pastime.

Someone like Vivienne Westwood, for example, has been doing it for years. Meadham Kirchhoff are no exception, with their take on the gansey sweater. These pieces are what you might expect from design duo Edward Meadham and Benjamin Kirchhoff, who are globally inspired, with influences that include Romany culture and Peruvian costume. There's also a strong romantic or gothic element to many of their collections, so the backstory (or myth) of fishermen being lost at sea may have been an attraction.

I'd imagine the craftsmanship that's gone into this collection will be a big selling point, especially for American and Japanese buyers, who value heritage in fashion and will enjoy the Scottish link.