The History of Barbour Tartan

A Guide to Barbour Tartan

Honouring Barbour’s legacy, our original and authentic tartans are reimagined for today in vibrant colour palettes and oversized checks, creating a modern take on an iconic pattern.

Colours echo the landscape we call home, this is a celebration of Barbour tartan, reimagined for now.

What is Tartan?

Tartan is a patterned cloth consisting of criss-crossed, horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colours. The individual pattern of each tartan is called a ‘sett’. Each sett is defined by the series of woven threads that cross at right angles to form the distinctive chequered pattern of the tartan.

Every sett is unique in its arrangement and thread count, acting as the definitive blueprint of the tartan’s design. This distinctiveness makes the sett a vital market of authenticity and originality. To be a true tartan, its sett must be formally recorded and recognised.

What are the Barbour Tartans?

Our unique and exclusive Barbour tartans tell a story of heritage and belonging, recognisable by our original sett. They’re a seal of authenticity and a point of pride carried across the generations of our family business, letting you know that your piece is undeniably Barbour.

Our sett can be found in a range of scales and colourways – ranging from lasting classics to modern designs reimagined to suit the seasons. This means, however our tartans appear, they will always stay true to our family roots.

1998 - Classic Tartan

Where it all began. Our first, exclusive tartan, designed to complement our iconic waxed jackets and the colours of the countryside we call home.

2002 - Dress Tartan

Created with Kinloch Anderson, our Dress Tartan echoes 18th-century white-based styles, updated with sandstone tones that evoke hazy British summer days.

2006 - Ancient Tartan

Usually found in our Sage waxed jackets with its complementing green tone, our Ancient Tartan reflects the colours of historic vegetable dyes used in times gone by.

2026 - Shadow Tartan

Based on our iconic Classic Tartan, this new iteration encapsulates the same colours of the British Countryside but in a more muted, pared-back palette. Designed to suit the colder months, it still features our original Barbour family sett - just like every tartan we create.

How to Style Tartan

Style tartan with modern silhouettes and bold textures for a contemporary look, inspired by heritage. Pair it with chunky loafers, oversized layers, or simply keep it as finishing touch through your accessories, and keep the colour palette cohesive to let the statement print stand out.

Where do we use Barbour Tartans?

Barbour Tartans are ever-present across our designs – used in the linings and trims, printed onto our classic waxed cotton, re-dyed and adapted for changing seasons. You’ll find all-over statement tartan styles or subtle touches. Our signature tartans are used across clothing, outerwear, footwear and accessories, acting as a signal of authentic Barbour craftsmanship and heritage.