UK exhibitor Johnstons of Elgin takes inspiration from Scotland’s dramatic coastline for SS23, with a new collection on show at the June 2022 edition of Pitti Uomo in Florence.

For more than 220 years Johnstons of Elgin has worked with the world’s finest natural fibres, specialising in luxurious Cashmere and fine woollens. The family owned company, established in 1797, marries its rich Scottish heritage with a commitment to innovation to bring its customers the highest quality products that are made to last for more than a lifetime. Inspiring designers and highly skilled craftspeople remain at the heart of all they do, while a focus on sustainability carries them towards a bright future.

This season, the brand has looked beyond the countryside to explore the colours and textures of Scotland’s rugged shoreline.

The SS23 collection celebrates the raw, authentic beauty of Scotland’s beaches, cliffs and coves.

Johnstons’ replicates Scotland’s coastline’s subtle shades and patterns, uncovered by years of wild seas and driving rain. The soft neutrals of sand and shingle complete its colour palette. Gauzy Cashmere and chunky crochet designs feature alongside delicate lace-stitch pieces for women. Marine stripes and plaited rib designs join the most-loved Cashmere Hoodies and sweaters in menswear.

The Johnstons of Elgin House Check features in a Lightweight Merino Scarf, while the Cashmere Tissue Stripe Scarf carries a soft blue light and shade pattern. The heavier weight Plain Cashmere Stoles complement the capsule in classic Camel and Navy Blue shades.

The Spring-Summer capsule takes a look at Scotland’s wild side and continues to showcase the exceptional craftsmanship and hand finishes for which the brand is renowned.

Innovation

Innovation has always been a driving force for Johnstons of Elgin. James Johnston brought the first bale of Cashmere into the UK in 1851 and quickly developed a system for the mechanical processing of the fibre, many decades before other British mills. The company continues to champion new technology, such as state of the art software to transfer hand-drawn designs onto digital files, allowing the most detailed of patterns to be woven into fabric. A commitment to innovation has allowed Cashmere and Merino Wool products to be produced in feather-light weights, establishing Johnstons of Elgin as a brand for all seasons.

The exquisite craftsmanship synonymous with the brand is the result of more than two centuries of experience, and many of the skills and techniques used have been passed down through generations. Some of the more than 7500 dyes in the Johnstons of Elgin colour library were developed as long ago as 1856. Around 30 different processes are involved in transforming raw fibre into the highest quality products, and it all happens in the heart of Scotland. The company’s Elgin site is the only vertical mill in Scotland, meaning everything from dyeing and blending to spinning and teaselling happens in one location. Knitted garments are manufactured at the company’s Hawick mill in the Scottish borders where innovative Whole Garment Technology allows many of the products to be made entirely seam free, while other items are finished by hand using traditional methods.

Heritage

The company remains proud of its extraordinary Scottish heritage, often taking designs from their archives and reimagining them in contemporary products. As Royal Warrant holders, Johnstons of Elgin understand that some processes are better left untouched, but balance this with a thirst for innovation. With a growing retail presence including stores in Elgin, Hawick, Edinburgh, St Andrews and London, the company is focused on producing timeless, luxury products of enduring quality and beauty. Johnstons of Elgin honours its rich history while embracing its exciting future. Timeless luxury, made in Scotland.

Follow @johnstonsofelgin on Instagram or visit www.johnstonsofelgin.com

UKFT GLOBAL BRANDS

Discover the full list of UK menswear brands at Pitti Uomo in Florence in June 2022 here.