Islander is entering an exciting new phase of growth, bringing its distinctive blend of Scottish heritage, contemporary accessories and hands-on retail experiences to a wider audience.
Founded in Edinburgh in 2010, Islander is best known for its Harris Tweed® handbags, footwear and accessories, alongside the Islander Workshop Experience. During the workshop, guests choose their preferred bag style and Harris Tweed® or tartan lid before assembling their personalised handbag using the standard components provided, with guidance from the Islander team. The result is both a product and an experience: a unique piece created by the customer and a lasting reminder of their visit.
Following the success of its stores and workshops across Edinburgh and St Andrews, Islander opened its first London store and workshop in Covent Garden in July 2026. The new location marks an important step in the company’s expansion, introducing the workshop concept to London’s domestic and international visitors while creating a permanent retail platform for Islander’s wider accessories collections.
Alongside its own stores and e-commerce business, Islander works with over 800 stockists globally and continues to develop new wholesale, licensing and international opportunities.
Recent projects have also demonstrated how textiles can connect heritage, culture and storytelling. Islander created a special collection of bags and footwear using the Spirit of Brazil Harris Tweed®, developed from a tartan designed by a Scottish school pupil. The project celebrates Scotland’s historic connection to the development of football in Brazil and supports the International Police Association’s charitable work.
Looking ahead, Islander is focused on growing responsibly while retaining the creativity, personalisation and sense of discovery that sit at the heart of the brand. From international wholesale partnerships and new retail locations to cultural collaborations, the company aims to introduce Scottish textile heritage to new audiences in a modern, accessible and memorable way worldwide.
Here is what Islander said about joining UKFT membership:
We joined UKFT to access practical industry expertise as we scale our retail, workshop, wholesale and international operations, particularly around compliance, labelling and global trade. We also value the opportunity to connect with and learn from other UK fashion and textile businesses.
