The Secret Life of Tartan
Written by Vixy Rae - Published by Black and White
Tartan is so much more than just a cloth. From its clan origins in the Scottish Highlands to the catwalks of Milan, London and New York, from its regimental history to its anti-establishment status, tartan has not only shaped a nation but has become an international style icon. The Secret Life of Tartan
is as colourful and interwoven as the threads of the fabric itself. From troops in Black Watch tartan controlling Highland rebels to the Balmoral tartan exclusively worn by royalty, from the first tartan on the moon to the pattern of choice for punk and high fashion alike, tartan truly has a remarkable universal status. Today, tartan evokes history, kinship, tradition, romance, irreverence, fashion and style.
The Secret Life of Tartan
Unravels the truths and the myths of the cloth that shaped a nation to reveal how it has captured hearts around the world.
Reviews
'There is so much to tartan there's a stirring and romantic history, a science, and a treasure trove of fascinating stories. This book is all of that, and more. A delight for the senses.'
Alexander McCall Smith
'Vixy's energy and passion for provenance jump out from every page tartan with a tailored twist!'
John McLeish
'Vixy Rae takes the tat out of tartan and makes you feel resplendently cool and modern.'
Shauna Macdonald
'Vixy at Stewart Christie has found the missing link, providing a unique bond between our history and traditional customs with a much-needed contemporary feel. They really capture the essence of Scottish heritage.'
Sam Heughan, Outlander star
'The première of Mary Queen of Scots was one of the most memorable nights I've ever had. To have the opportunity to celebrate Scottish heritage and design by wearing Vixy's capelette made it even more special!'
Saoirse Ronan
'Vivienne Westwood reinvented tartan in the 1970s and into the 1980s with her irreverent, but massively stylish, bondage trousers and suits. Punk not only had a seismic impact on music, but also on fashion and design.'
Vic Galloway
Signed copies available, See link below
a selection of fantastic google reviews
4.9 out of 5
5.0 out of 5 stars A true love of Tartan history, ancient and modern day
I love this book, such an obvious labor of love. So beautifully written. The colorful photographs and research work are all fascinating and gives so much information. Super intriguing!
5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting reading
Having read many books over the years on tartans I thought this was a refreshing new approach. Well worth a read.
5.0 out of 5 stars Factual, informative and Scottish
Bought this as a gift and liked it so much now buying myself a copy.
5.0 out of 5 stars The Secret Life of Tartan
A really absorbing read. Would highly recommend
Vixy Rae’s book is not only thorough, it’s also a real beauty, a genuine masterpiece. It tells about profound proficiency, dedication, and passion in all areas of making a book – not to mention the subject itself.
Grenier
5.0 out of 5 stars Le tartan d’hier et d’aujourd’hui
Tres beau livre racontant l histoire du tartan de l origine a ce jour le choix des couleur les creations actuelles tres belle photos
Barbara
5.0 out of 5 stars Colourful, informative, excellent book
This is a gorgeous book, full of beautiful illustrations, historical references, and detailed information about tartan and how it became a source of national identify of Scotland. The author has a long history in the fashion industry, and looks at tartan from many perspectives, including past, present and future style, clan identity, various setts, types of weavings, dye and craftmanship. I find myself picking up the book and reading chapters in any order frequently. It is a wonderful reference but also makes a beautiful coffee table book.
Maine Annie
5.0 out of 5 stars Funny and informative
This is a highly informative and funny book. As a member of wClan Cunningham, I was delighted to read about the origins of this plaid and others. If you like anything Scottish you,too, will enjoy this book.
K. Guittar
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful Book!
This book is absolutely gorgeous just to look at and what I've read so far is fascinating. Great service on the shipment, too!
Rhonda Stradling Lara
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful Book!
Absolutely exquisite book- Very thorough and exceptional. I highly recommend this book- I am a Certified Librarian.
Sharon
5.0 out of 5 stars Very interesting
with the holidays i have only had a chance to page thru the book. I found it very interesting. I cannot wait until I have Christmas made ready and I will have a chance to delve into it.
Diane Serralta
5.0 out of 5 stars Tartan Lover
Still reading it and love the details and the history!
Deborah A Frazier
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful tartans!
Love reading backstory on so many tartans and seeing the clans they are associated with.
Judy D.
5.0 out of 5 stars Very quick shipping.
Christmas gift . Easy read
A note from the author -
''Many thanks for all the kind comments. It was one of the hardest and biggest challenges of my life. And I take great comfort in knowing that this hard work is now being enjoyed all over the world, within textiles, fashion and tourism.''
Vixy Rae
Tales of Tailoring
