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Harris tweed is an iconic fabric, steeped in history. It's production is governed by an Act of Parliament, passed in 1993 which decrees that it must be made form wool dyed, spun and woven on the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. You can identify Harris Tweed by its Orb trademark which authenticates all Harris Tweed Woven. Harris is the second largest island of the chain, which includes fourteen other inhabited islands, there are also more than 50 other islands which are uninhabited. The inhabited islands have a total population of around 26,500. Weaving, including the production of Harris Tweed, is one of the main industries found on the islands alongside tourism, crofting and fishing. Across from the mountainous North Harris lies South Harris, presenting some of the finest scenery in Scotland with wide sandy beaches. In the mid-19th century, the Isle of Harris was owned by the 4th Earl of Dunmore, John Murray and his wife, Lady Charlotte. Both were born into wealthy Scottish families: he was an Earl and an officer, she was the daughter of one of Scotland's leading families. They saw the potential for selling, Harris Tweed produced by their tenants - to their acquaintances in London . Lady Dunmore in particular was instrumental in promoting Harris Tweed through her connections in the upper classes, particularly the hunting and fishing set. This marked the beginning of Harris Tweed as a commercial product. By the end of the nineteenth century, Harris Tweed was firmly established and much sought after, it had even become popular with members of the royal circle. As the popularity of Harris Tweed grew weavers began to produce their own versions and legal protection was sought to protect genuine Harris Tweed. The Harris Tweed Association was set up in 1909. In it's second year of operation it created the Orb trademark which is still used to authenticate all Harris Tweed. Harris Tweed Hebrides uses a range of more than 100 yarns which can be made up into thousands of patterns. There are a number of tweed weights: the heaviest is medium - weight used for furnishings and interiors. The most commonly used weight is the feather - weight which is popular for jackets. The lightest weight is superfine which is often used for ladieswear This year Harris Tweed received a boost with the accreditation of 100 Western Isles weavers. Thanks to two projects established by Cardonald College in Glasgow, a twelve week, course resulting in an SVQ qualification in Harris Tweed weaving was delivered in Stornoway, producing ten new weavers, most of whom have begun careers in the industry. The second stage of project recognised the skills of the existing workforce by means of an audit, to create an industry standard. A target of delivering one hundred accreditations has now been achieved and another twenty-five weavers have enrolled in the next course.

On this week's Apprentice the team's were challenged to find a variety of items - including some tartan cloth - and buy them at the lowest price possible. Synergy's Chris and Stewart devious ploy involved a tall story about a Scottish wedding and a doting grandmother. While negotiating for the tartan, Chris embellished the truth somewhat

The red hot chilli pipers group made up of 11 different musicians have just come back from New York where they played in Times Square. The band provide a new interpretation take on bagpipe music featuring contemporary hits by artists like Cold Play and Queen as well as traditional Scottish Tunes. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers have a dedicated fan base in Scotland, and are growing in popularity they have also played in Germany and Australia to rave reviews. They are looking forward to returning to Scotland for Hogmanay 'we will be headlining the hogmanay celebrations in Inverness, weather permitting, and we can't wait' said group member Steve The group may be getting an early Xmas present this year, as Scots Trad Music Award nominated them for 'Live Act of the Year' 2010. The awards are set to be announced on the 4th December.

Brian Wilton of the Scottish Tartan's Authority this week raised the issue of what to or not to wear under you kilt. For Mr Wilton the issue is one of common sense and hygiene 'the idea that you are not a real Scot unless you are bare under your kilt should be thrown into the same wastepaper basket as the idea that you're not a real Scot unless you put salt on you porridge' he continues 'Common sense and decency suggest that for the majority of occasions one should wear under the kilt what one would wear under a pair of trousers'. He points to the issue of hygiene that companies who hire kilt have faced, with some companies now insisting that underwear is worn under their hire kilts However others feel strongly that not wearing anything is traditional and should be upheld, Former Formula One driver David Coulthard insists 'I've been wearing a kilt since I was a little boy and will continue to wear my kilts in the time-honoured fashion. There is nothing childish or unhygienic about it.' Supporters of the commando approach point out that 'The tradition of no underwear being worn was a stipulation of Scottish military regulation' While the case for wearing something is clearer for hire kilts, once you have your own kilt I think either option works. I think wearing nothing adds to the distinctiveness of the Scottish national dress, but on a windy day it might be wise to have another layer! What's your position? do you care to bare ? we would love to hear your thoughts.

...well not literally of course!... over the last two weeks we have had a massive increase in the number of people buying our Harris Tweed jackets - from as far a field as Greece, Turkey, The Ukraine and Canada...Maybe it's the cold nip in the air, or people are getting their xmas shopping done early. These are the genuine article, we source them directly from the Harris Tweed company, and each jacket has the famous 'Harris Tweed Orb' trademark... rest assured despite the very reasonable price these items are 100% authentic. Each jacket is woven by hand in the western isles of Scotland. Comes with Harris Tweed Branded Coat Hanger. Chose from Taransa, Barva, Laxdale, Hamish and Dalmore at the bargain price of

We have some fantastic items for St Andrew's day frolics! Celebrate in style; don your kilt and tap your ghille shod feet! Whether you're attending a ceildh or meal out with friends Enjoy! A taste of our St Andrew's range:

Demonstrating the fashion credentials of the kilt, Gwyeth Paltrow worn a fetching grey and black number for her Cameo appearance on the hugely popular TV show Glee. Inspired? take a look at our selction of 100% wool mini kilts. Their flattering and comfortable design make them perfect for any occasion. Made from 100% pure new wool they will be nice and snug in the winter months worn with thick tights and boots. The wide waistband to ensures a comfortably fit and traditional pleating give swing and sway - the flat panel at the front creates a smooth silhouette.

Make it a family affair with our girls highland dresses ideal for occasions such as weddings and christenings. These super cute dresses feature a lace overlay collar and petticoat. We have also expanded our range of kilts for ladies - all in 100% wool - choose from billie kilts, denim and tartan kilts, bubble kilts. And if you're looking for something extra special our 100% wool tartan corsets have just come in!

Look out for a new auto-biography from Britain's most decorated soilder who is 90 today. His amazing story tells of incredible bravery while fighting both Nazis and communists. And his choice of Highlander dress? he says this was a deliberate decision to convey to any french doubters that the British were in a strong position. The book is called 'Behind Enemy Lines: An Autobiography Of Britain

Fashion and textile students at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen are waiting nervously to see if their tartan design for Donald Trump is chosen. It would be a fantastic achevement for whoevers deisgn is picked as the selected tartan will be used on a range of golf products as well as adorning Trumps golf resort. Previous designs by the students Among the judges are the vice-president of Trump International an top tartan and interior designer, Mikhail pietranek, in the successful tartan they are looking for a tartan that is inspired by Trumps golf vision and passion for scotland. Good luck guys, we look forward to seeing the winning tartan!