With Dark Thorn's new collection Highland being inspired by 17th Century Scotland and using Black Watch Tartan throughout, we thought it was time to give a little history behind the Black Watch and what it means. Designs aren't just clothing here at Dark Thorn, they tell a story and help evoke a feeling. This collection highlights the love designer Tori-Anne has for Scotland and with helping you, Dark Thorn consumers, understand the history behind Black Watch she is hoping that you can feel that little more connected with the collection.

The Black Watch was formed in 1735 after the Jacobite rebellion. The Black Watch consisted of highlanders from clans Campbell, Fraser, Grants and Munros. They were stationed across the Highlands and their job was to prevent fighting and tensions between the clans.

The name Black Watch resinated from the dark colour of the tartan they wore and their job to "watch" over the clans. This soon became the official name of the regiment, or "Am Freiceadan Dubh" in Gaelic.

In 1747 the Black Watch was given its own ranking as the 42nd Royal Highland Regiment fighting alongside the British Army. The Black Watch wore uniform kilts up until the 1940's.

The reasoning behind choosing Black Watch Tartan to use throughout the Highland collection came down to its historical value. Black Watch is a government tartan which means that anyone that does or does not have a family tartan can wear Black Watch.

As controversial as the Black Watch can be it's rich in history and is a pinnacle point in Scottish history. 

You can now purchase Dark Thorn Highland garments online now including the Heather Vest which is made entirely of Black Watch Tartan which is made from British wool and woven in Scotland. 

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