Topman teams up with Harris Tweed

The Topman Harris Tweed Collection – Fall 2010

“Everything old is new again.”

This is an odd pairing.  Topman, which sometimes offers pieces that feel like they’re a poor man’s version of Thom Browne, has teamed up with none other than Harris Tweed to offer a small line available on Topman.com.  This fabric which was probably favored by the likes of, oh I don’t know… Sherlock Holmes, is about as authentic as it gets.

Produced on the northernmost islands of Scotland, it’s an understandably expensive heritage brand.  So some of the 15 pieces offered by Topman are pretty far out of reach.  But that heritage also means that if you keep an eye out, you’re likely to come across a good amount of Harris Tweed pieces in your local thrift store.  Here’s what’s worthwhile to buy new from Topman:

What’s Worthwhile

#1.  The Harris Tweed Topman Gloves – $50.00: Not too expensive, and guaranteed you won’t find something similar at Goodwill.  Right up there with these gloves from Ralph Lauren.
#2.  The Harris Tweed Topman Brown Check Tie – $32.00: Wool ties are terrific.  An honest to God Harris Tweed tie is something you’ll want to take care of and hang onto for a long time.  Not too skinny either.
#3.  The Harris Tweed Topman Waistcoat – $100: Yes it’s expensive.  But if you’re the type that prefers your oxfords to be layered under something (say a sweater vest or chino blazer) then this waistcoat has the depth to carry that load.  Throw a molehair blazer over it for more warmth.

Everything else is over the top expensive.  Especially since the fabric appears to have been shipped off to China for construction (zoom in on the tag on the waistcoat).  It’s tough not to love the three football button herringbone jacket, but for $360?  That’s just not possible for most of us.

If you had to pick one item from the new Harris Tweed / Topman collection, which one would you buy?  Leave any and all feedback in the comments section below…
*Also – points to Stephen for also noticing these pieces and sending in a style tip as I was writing them up.