GCU and Harris Tweed project has stylish finish

GCU is to launch a range of merchandise incorporating the world-famous Harris Tweed fabric following a successful student design project.

Students on GCU's MSc International Fashion Marketing were asked to create corporate gifts reflecting the University and luxury fashion brand's shared interest in environmental sustainability.

Five students -  Paul Beaton, Yu-Ying Hsu, Ellen McFadden, Katie Scott, and Caitlin Simpson - were then invited to present their work to a panel including Mark Hogarth, creative director at Harris Tweed. 

The best designs including hats, passport holders, cushions, a tote bag, and luggage tags are now set to go into production.

Harris Tweed, handwoven in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, is the only fabric in the world to be protected by an act of Parliament.

It's hoped some of the merchandise, made of recycled off-cuts, will be showcased in the build to next year's COP26 summit in Glasgow.

Louise McBride, programme leader of the MSc IFM, said: "As part of the brief, students had to develop a narrative that emphasised the shared values of both brands

"We are really grateful to Harris Tweed and Mark Hogarth for their help with the project. We’re at the point where we’re looking to get production samples made and it will be great to see how things progress from here."