Inspired by the legendary Mr Tom Purdey, this inaugural House tweed embodies this magnetic character. In the 1920's, Tom was the chief salesman selling to British and European clients as well as travelling the length and breadth of America. Always well dressed no matter the occasion and with a generous personality, the decision to base the first House tweed on Tom was only natural.
“Among the most magnetic characters in Purdey history, and one that many of the team would still love to share a drink with, Tom Purdey was a natural choice."
Giles Deacon, Purdey Creative Director
Following his death in 1957, Tom left behind a fantastic photographic archive documenting his life. The team took inspiration from several of these photos when developing the new tweed, referencing the countryside setting as much as the look and feel of the patterns he enjoyed wearing. Tom's style was very classic but heavilty influenced by the fashion of the 1930s. At this time, tweed was more refined than the heavier fabrics that his grandfather knew and had become extremely fashionable, thanks in part to Purdey clients like the Prince of Wales.
The new Tom Purdey tweed features a dogtooth pattern, overlaid with a lighter windowpane check and features a base that draws on the muted tones of the Scottish landscape - soft greens, heathers and browns, with a blue overcheck linking to the blues which thread through Tom's life, from his school colours at Eton to his regimental tartan.
Bespokely developed with Purdey's partner mill in Hawick, Scotland, the legacy of Estate tweeds has informed Purdey's own House tweed. Woven into British history, Estate tweeds were a symbol of Scotland's identity in the late 1700s, growing in popularity throughout the 1800s as they became commissioned by the monarch and aristocracy. With subtle defining characteristics in colour, pattern and weave - the Tom Purdey tweed combines fine woollen spun lambswool in 21 individually coloured yarns, used in 16 separate high-twist combinations. Every metre is woven on a four-harness classic twill construction, before being inspected and corrected by hand to ensure highest possible quality. The fabric is then finished locally and washed using the soft peaty waters of the Scottish Borders.
Available to shop now at Purdey's Audley House boutique, discover the range of Tom Purdey tweed including a Men's and Women's jacket, vest, breeks, tie and hat. Plus a cashmere-mix version for soft accessories including a blanket, cushion and hot water bottle.