Our Tartan Trews and Tartan Trousers are extremely versatile and can be easily dressed up or dressed down to fit the occasion. In this blog, we’re taking a deeper look at Tartan Trews and Tartan Trousers, their history and their differences.

THE HISTORY OF TREWS

Tartan Trews are as historical and quintessentially Scottish as the Kilt is. Trews, known as “Triubhas” in Gaelic, date back to around the 16th century. With the Highland winters being so harsh and unforgiving, it was important for Highlanders to stay as warm as possible. This is where Trews originate from as their kilts didn’t cover them below the knee so a new solution was needed!

When Trews were made originally, the tartan fabric was cut on the bias(cut at a 45-degree angle) to allow the fabric to stretch around the leg. This gave Trews a unique look as the tartan was angled at 45 degrees, giving the tartan a diamond design.

Tartan Trews were so identifiably Scottish that they were also included in the infamous Dress Act in 1746. In the aftermath of the Jacobite Rising of 1745, the British Government attempted to quash in future attempts at an uprising by banning all Highland dress in Scotland:

“No Man or Boy, within that part of Great Britain called Scotland shall wear or put on clothes commonly called Highland Clothes (That is to say) the Plaid, Philabeg, or little Kilt, Trowse, Shoulder Belts, or any part whatsoever of what peculiarly belongs to the Highland Garb” 

Thankfully, the act was repealed less than 40 years later and kilts and trews have gone on to become fashion staples for events, weddings and everything else!

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TARTAN TREWS AND TARTAN TROUSERS

You might be wondering what the difference is between a pair of Trews and a pair of Trousers. 

Tartan Trews have a wider waistband and a fishtail back. Tartan Trews are known for sitting much higher on your waist than a regular pair of trousers.

Tartan Trousers have a straight waistband, and whilst they are more like your typical pair of trousers in design, they do still sit slightly higher on your waist. 

STYLING YOUR TREWS AND TROUSERS

Whether opting for a traditional pair of Tartan Trews or a stylish pair of Tartan Trousers, you can wear them at all types of events and occasions. 

Tartan Trews are traditionally worn with a Prince Charlie Jacket for formal events however, a more casual tweed jacket can be worn with trews to suit any occasion. 

A more modern and versatile option, our Tartan Trousers pairs perfectly with most of our jacket styles and can be dressed up or dressed down, depending on the event and weather.

Your pair of 100% worsted wool Trews / Trousers can be customised to your every preference. Whether you’d prefer the option of your Trews / Trousers being fully lined inside or only partially lined; whether you’d prefer kilt belt loops, regular belt loops or no belt loops; and you can choose the buttons on trousers to perfectly match your jacket style!

With over 4,000 tartans to choose from, from traditional clan tartans to more modern designs, including our exclusive Mist tartans, we have the perfect tartan for your pair of Tartan Trews or Tartan Trousers!