Trews are a traditional garment of clothing in the Scottish Highlands. The word “trews” means “trousers” in English. The original purpose of this leather trimmed item of clothing, which covers a man's legs and abdomen, was to help with horseplay riding. In addition, it offers a traditional appearance because trews are making a huge comeback and may be worn by any Scotsman as a fashion statement in the present era or on chilling winter days. If you would like to represent your Scottish heritage with an argyle suit but don't want to wear kilts to an event, these are a great, traditional substitute. Form-fitting clothing, traditional trews resembled the footed hose of the Renaissance, from which they most likely descended. They could be hemmed in full length or as knee-breeches.
History and Origin:
Just like the kilt, traditional tartan trews are a symbol of Scottish history and identity. Trews, or “Triubhas” in Gaelic, have been around since the sixteenth century. It was crucial for Highlanders to stay as warm as possible because the winters in the Highlands were so severe and cruel. Trews come from this origin since they required a new solution because their kilts did not cover them below the knee. Due to their characteristic Scottish appearance, traditional trews were also covered by the infamous Dress Act of 1746. Following the 1745 Jacobite Rising, the British Government outlawed Highland attire in Scotland in an effort to thwart any potential subsequent uprisings.
“It is forbidden for any man or boy living in the Scottish region of Great Britain to wear or put on what is commonly referred to as Highland Clothes, which includes items like Plaid, Philabeg, small Kilts, Trowse, Shoulder Belts, and other items that are specifically associated with Highland attire.” Fortunately, the law was overturned less than 40 years later, and since then, kilts and trews have become timeless pieces of clothing for special occasions like weddings!
How to Wear Traditional Tartan Trews:
You can elevate your casual ensemble with a dash of refinement and flair by wearing traditional trews.
- For an effortlessly stylish look, team your tartan trews with sneakers and a basic white t-shirt. This combination keeps the overall style relaxed and comfy while allowing the trews' pattern to take center stage.
- Try wearing your traditional trews with a chambray shirt and leather sneakers for a somewhat dressier look. The combination of materials gives the ensemble interest without sacrificing its carefree vibe.
- Put on a black leather jacket over a simple black shirt to give your casual outfit some edge. Tartan trews and ankle boots finish the appearance. Ruggedness and finesse are perfectly balanced by this mix.
- Don't be scared to try wearing an outfit with multiple patterns in it! For a striking contrast that is guaranteed to draw attention, consider matching your tartan trews with floral or striped prints.
Accessories That Complement Tartan Trews:
Any ensemble needs accessories to make it complete, and with traditional trews, the proper accessories can truly make a statement. The following selection of accessories goes great with tartan trews:
- Belts: To define your waist and give your outfit structure, try a sleek leather belt in a complementary hue. To allow the tartan to take center stage, go with a straightforward buckle design.
- Shoes: Select shoes that go well with the hues of your tartan trews. Classic black or brown dress shoes are a surefire choice for a formal event. For an additional dash of Scottish charm, consider wearing them with brogues to inject some flare.
- Ties or Bowties: Use a tie or bowtie in a color that is included in the tartan pattern to provide a unified effect. This will balance and harmonize your ensemble without taking the stage.
- Pocket Squares: Including a pocket square in your outfit is an additional method to add extra color and texture. For more visual intrigue, choose one whose tartan pattern tones are comparable to yours.
- Hats: When worn with tartan trews, a chic hat may be both useful and trendy. During the winter months, try accessorizing with warm woolen beanies; for formal occasions, go for traditional Scottish caps like the tam o'shanter.
Always keep in mind that accessories should complement rather than overshadow your tartan trews; hence, select pieces that work well with their colors and patterns to offer even more charm to your ensemble.
Care and maintenance tips:
Taking care of your traditional tartan trews is essential to ensure they last for years to come. By following a few simple maintenance tips, you can keep your traditional trews looking sharp and in top condition. First and foremost, make sure you constantly adhere to the manufacturer's care recommendations. Make sure you are using the proper technique to clean your trews without causing any damage to the fabric, whether you are dry cleaning or hand washing them. Second, be sure to properly keep your tartan trews. If you hang them in a cool, dry location, wrinkles and creases won't appear. Do not fold them for extended periods of time as this can cause the cloth to become permanently lined. Finally, pay attention to how you wear and move while wearing trews. To minimize unintentional damage, stay away from rough objects that could catch the fabric and use caution while near open flames.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, classic and refined clothing with immense historical and cultural value for Scotland are traditional tartan trews. Trews, which were formerly manufactured for equestrian use, are making a resurgence as a distinctive piece of clothing and a representation of Scottish ancestry. They provide a classic and elegant appearance when worn in place of kilts. Trews provide a touch of vintage appeal with their form-fitting design, which is reminiscent of the Renaissance's footed hose. Accessory pieces like pocket squares, caps, belts, shoes, ties or bowties, and ties can improve the ensemble and go well with the trews. The traditional trews must be properly maintained and cared for, which includes according to the manufacturer's care instructions and storing them appropriately. All things considered, classic tartan trews are a smart and adaptable option for any Scotsman, allowing them to embrace their heritage with grace and elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are Scottish trews?
- As an alternative to the kilt, modern trews are more like pants with the cloth cut on the straight grain without a side seam. They are frequently high-waisted and are typically worn with a short jacket.
2. Trews gained popularity when?
- The 15th and 16th centuries are when we first saw it in its recognizable form. These trews were basically one-piece stockings and breeches.
3. How should trews be worn casually?
- The finishing touch to the entire ensemble is what you pair your trews with. For a round of golf, wearing your trews or pants with a sweater or shirt is ideal. Choose a tweed jacket or a jacket and vest set to add some dress to your otherwise casual ensemble.
