For all its perks (speedy, convenient, all the world at your fingertips), internet shopping can never quite trump the bricks-and-mortar variety. Seeing fashion in the flesh, feeling the quality and trying it on, is instantly reassuring, especially when it comes to your wedding attire.
With this in mind, online tweed and tartan hub ScotlandShop.com, founded by Borders businesswoman Anna White, has opened the brand’s first ever shop. Specialising in custom accessories, homeware and clothing, the store will allow customers to choose their tartan, by colour or clan, from a range of over 500 checks, for the first time in person.
The shop at 10 Queensferry Street, which was launched by international rugby player Doddie Weir (wearing a checked suit made by ScotlandShop.com no less), is impressive and imposing, with its restored high ceilings and cornicing, fusion of contemporary and traditional interiors and different zones, including the tailoring area, where you’ll be measured on an appointment or drop-in basis, depending on your schedule.
The tailoring is top notch for grooms, with impeccable kilts and three piece suits on offer, but we can’t resist the tartan block heels, for a cute, unexpectedly patriotic flash under a bridal gown.