Prominent journalist Kirsty Wark returns to television with ‘Icons of Style,’ a series that delves into Scotland’s influential contributions to global fashion.
Kirsty Wark, a prominent Scottish journalist and broadcaster, is set to return to television with her new series, “Icons of Style,” which will air on BBC Scotland. The two-part series aims to explore the rich fashion legacy that Scotland has contributed to the global style landscape.
The show will feature a cast of notable figures from the fashion world, including Annie Lennox, Bill Gibb, Pam Hogg, and Alan Cumming. It examines how Scotland, despite its small size, has made a considerable impact on fashion both historically and in contemporary times. Speaking exclusively with the Daily Record, Kirsty detailed her vision for the show, which intends to celebrate the nation’s fashion influencers and developers.
Kirsty Wark stated that the concept for “Icons of Style” has long been an aspiration of hers, ignited in part by her daughter, Caitlin. Caitlin had worked on a postgraduate journalism project that traced the evolution of Scottish knitwear, centralized around a factory in Hawick. This project underscored the familial connections and storytelling that shaped the fashion industry in Scotland. “When she came back with that, I thought I’ve always wanted to do this series. I need to do this across generations and across different time frames for style,” Kirsty explained.
The series will emphasize the importance of Scottish textile production, notably showcasing iconic mills like Lochcarron, which supply fabrics to major fashion houses worldwide. Describing the creative potential of these mills, Kirsty humorously noted, “If you want gold lurex in your tartan, you can have it.” This highlights the adaptability of Scottish textiles and their relevance in today’s fashion industry.
Reflecting on her own connections to fashion, Kirsty mentioned the influence of her family on her personal style, with garments passed down from her mother and aunt, including a notable blazer from the 1950s that she sported on “Newsnight.” She commented, “Fashion comes back around. It’s about repurposing and reimagining pieces for a new generation.”
Kirsty expressed awareness of the fast fashion trend but also noted a growing consciousness surrounding sustainability in fashion. “I think probably fast fashion is more affordable, but it won’t last,” she remarked, acknowledging how fleeting such styles can be compared to more sustainable options. She expressed hope that “Icons of Style” would inspire viewers to embrace Scotland’s fashion heritage and incorporate these styles into their own wardrobes, fostering a sense of individual expression through clothing.
The show also promises to revisit early Scottish fashion influencers, including Lulu, a Glasgow-born singer who became a significant figure in 1960s fashion. Describing Lulu as a trailblazer, Kirsty pointed out, “She wasn’t just an influencer in Scotland; she was an influencer across the UK.”
As for her favorite fashion era, Kirsty noted the 1950s, a time characterized by sophistication and a post-war sense of renewal as Dior’s New Look gained traction. Additionally, she praised the versatility of the kilt, stating it remains “always on trend” in its various modern adaptations.
“Icons of Style” is scheduled to premiere on BBC Scotland on Sunday, March 16, at 9 PM, and will also be available for streaming on BBC iPlayer. With its exploration of Scotland’s fashion history and influential figures, the series aims to provide a comprehensive look at the country’s impact on the global fashion scene.
Source: Noah Wire Services
