The story of Sherlock Holmes Tartan
Sherlock Holmes is the first fictional character to have tartan designed in his name. This is a tartan imbued with Sherlockian lore. It was brought to life by designer Tania Henzell, who is also the step-great-great granddaughter of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the legendary author of the Sherlock Holmes novel series. Tania’s green and blue tartan creation is based on fictional literature but also rooted in real Scottish heritage, which gives the Sherlock Holmes Tartan range its distinctive appearance and undeniable grandeur.
From left to right: Sabrina Humphrey - Tania’s mother, Marcus Humphrey - Tania’s father, Michael Pooley - Tania’s uncle, and Pamela Pooley - Tania’s grandmother - with baby Sabrina.
The story behind the original green and blue Scottish tartan
When Tania presented her idea to the Scottish Registry of Tartan, they accepted the design on the grounds that there was a story and meaning behind the choice of colours. The muted greens and elegant blues of the original Scottish tartan design reflects the heritage of Sir Arthur, who was of Irish descent and born in Scotland. The design also features a thin blue line which is symbolic of Reichenbach Falls. Sherlockians will know that this is the location where Sherlock Holmes faced his nemesis Professor Moriarty at the end of “The Final Problem”. Finally the lavish gold strip represents Holmes’ unrivalled detective skills.
This rich backstory and unique symbolism of the Sherlock Holmes Tartan design makes anything from the range a striking statement piece. And if the story of this tartan somehow still isn’t authentic enough for you, the design has been officially endorsed by the Conan Doyle estate itself.
Sir Geoffrey Bromet, Tania’s great grandfather.
Tania’s Travels around the world with Sherlock Holmes Tartan
Authenticity is what makes the Sherlock Holmes Tartan range special. Its history is unique but it was also born out of a genuine and authentic enthusiasm for the Sherlock Holmes books. That’s why the tartan has been so well received by Sherlockians all around the world and especially in America. Tania has represented her creations at several Sherlockian events and also prestigious fashion events in New York due to the growing popularity of the brand.
The 2022 New York City Tartan Parade
One of these events being the 2022 New York City Tartan Parade. Along with thousands of bagpipers, this world renowned parade was led by Karen Gillan this year and has previously featured many big names in acting, such as the world famous comedian Billy Connolly. As if it were fate, Tania brought the Sherlock Holmes tartan to New York City exactly 100 years after Sir Arthur Connan Doyle was there himself. Read more about Tania’s travels and the New York City Tartan Parade here.
Dressed to Kilt fashion event 2022
Sherlock Holmes Tartan also attended the Dressed To Kilt 2022 fashion event. This world famous event, started by Dr Geoffrey Scott Carroll and Scottish Bond actor Sir Sean Connery, is considered to be one of the most prestigious and exciting fashion events in America. Classic pieces from the Sherlock Holmes Tartan range were featured at this event, such as the statement Inverness Cape and the classic Sherlock Holmes Deerstalker Hat. Get a behind the scenes look at the Dressed to Kilt fashion even in this blog post.
The Sherlock Holmes Tartan Society - a place for true Sherlockians
With the growth of Sherlock Holmes Tartan attracting the attention of Sherlockians world wide, Tania formed the Sherlock Holmes Tartan Society. A place where true Holmesians can feel at home. But to keep the details of the society falling into the hands of Moriarty, society members are encouraged only to invite true Sherlockians. If you love Sherlock Holmes, join the society today and gain exclusive access to Sherlock Holmes Tartan and the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Lineage. Thank you in advance, for preserving the secrecy of the society….
5 secrets about our Scottish designer
1. Tania’s uncle, Richard Pooley is the director of the Conan Doyle estate. Richard has provided the Sherlock Holmes Tartan marketing team with exciting blog content on multiple occasions. Check out this blog post for an exclusive behind the scenes look into the running of the Conan Doyle estate.
2. Sherlock Holmes Tartan has gone global! We have the loyal support of dedicated Sherlockians all around the world. Although we are based in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, our tartan has been sent everywhere from America to Asia and the global demand for the signature green and blue tartan of Sherlock Holmes is always steadily growing.
3. Tania treasures many early memories of Jean Conan Doyle, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s youngest daughter! Tania’s great grandfather, Geoffrey, married Jean and Tania has fond memories of when they came to Scotland for Christmas. That’s what separates Sherlock Holmes Tartan from traditional fashion brands, legacy and deep-rooted family heritage.
4. Tania has plans to incorporate a lighter fabric into her design portfolio. This is for the benefit of her American Sherlockians who adore the tartan, but unlike the Scots they have a lot of warm weather. Some of our most regular customers are based in the US and Tania plans to make them feel included with future work.
5. Our Scottish designer is an avid Sherlockian herself and favourite books from the Sherlock Holmes series include The Hound Of The Baskervilles and Silver Blade. It would be impossible just to choose one in fairness. Tania’s favourite Sherlock quote is, “When you have eliminated the impossible whatever remains, however improbable must be the truth”.
The Sherlock Holmes Tartan range
If you want to elevate your wardrobe or impress your fellow Sherlockians, browse our extensive range of elegant tartan garms and gifts.
“My name is Sherlock Holmes. It is my business to know what other people do not know”
Sherlock Holmes. The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle