Beside the seaside.
Based in Portobello, just a few miles from Edinburgh is 239 The High Street. An independent shop owned by John Paul who specialises in Harris Tweed gifts and accessories – and most excitedly a selection of our Wonky Woolies! Currently in stock are our Argyle Forester Hats, Bowmont Loop Scarves, and our Hector Burgundy Scarves. A great opportunity to pop in and try them on in store!
As you may have guessed by the name, the shop can be found on Porty’s busy high street. What a perfect location right by the seaside! Portobello has a great sense of community and puts on several locally-run events throughout the year. One of which is the Big Beach Busk – an annual music event returning for it’s tenth year. The event started as a way for local musicians to escape the madness of the Edinburgh Fringe and play on the promenade. Now hundreds of performers turn up each year!
239 The High Street has been a stockist of Wonky Woolies for over 2 years now. We had the pleasure of meeting John Paul while exhibiting at the Autumn trade fair in 2017. Next year we’re back exhibiting at Scotland’s Trade Fair from 19th-21st January at the SEC in Glasgow.
Harris Tweed.
John Paul has sourced a great collection of UK independent designers such as Snow Paw and Glen Appin, and stocks a large range of clothing and accessories made with Harris Tweed.
Harris Tweed is a handwoven fabric made from 100% pure Scottish wool. To this day, residents of the Outer Hebrides still dye, spin and weave the cloth in the traditional methods. Unlike other yarns, it is dyed before being spun allowing for a beautiful blend of colours. In the 18th century, the wool was coloured with vegetable and lichen dyes, which gave the tweed its famous, speckled appearance. All fabric is inspected by the Harris Tweed Authority before being marked with the Orb Trademark – only then can it be called Harris Tweed!
On a trip to Harris earlier this year, I saw a local gent weaving some tweed at the Blackhouse Village. If you would like to read more about my trip to the Isles, you can read the blog here!
Say Hello!
239 The High Street launched their online shop in the summer of last year, and ship orders all across the UK and Europe. If you’re further afield, have a look to have some beautiful products delivered to your home. Or next time you’re in Portobello, make sure you pop in and pay John Paul a visit! There’s even free cake up for grabs if you go on a Saturday!
