Graeme Bone, a kiltmaker from Auchinleck in Ayrshire, is set to showcase his designs on the catwalks of New York City as part of the city's upcoming Tartan Week celebrations. The 39-year-old, who previously worked in construction before retraining in fashion, has created five outfits that will be featured in the Dressed To Kilt fashion show scheduled for April 5, 2024.
The event, which takes place at The Church of the Heavenly Rest, is part of a week-long celebration of Scottish culture and heritage in New York. Bone's designs were commissioned by Dr Geoffrey Scott Carroll, the organiser of Dressed To Kilt and a co-founder of the event alongside the late Sir Sean Connery. Notable figures such as singer Jai McDowall, who gained fame as the winner of Britain's Got Talent in 2011, will model Bone's creations.
Reflecting on this opportunity, Bone described the show as potentially a “pivotal” point in his career, having established himself as one of Scotland's leading tailors of Highland wear. “Geoffrey had seen my work through online presence and from past articles and said he thought it was fantastic and really cool,” Bone remarked, adding, “That blew me away. It is an astounding chance for me and hopefully it could be a pivotal point in my career.” He expressed immense pride in the opportunity, stating that he looks forward to representing himself, his brand, and The King’s Foundation at the event.
Bone’s journey into fashion began after he spent 11 years in the construction industry. He retrained through college courses and initiatives offered by The King's Foundation at Dumfries House. His work gained significant recognition, culminating in a historic achievement in 2022 when he designed the first tartan to be sent into space. Today, he receives private commissions from international clients and maintains a connection with the monarchy.
Jai McDowall echoed Bone's sentiments, noting that the upcoming show would symbolise a celebration of their shared home county of Ayrshire. “I love Scotland and this is a way to connect with my Scottishness,” McDowall stated, highlighting the inclusion of the Ayrshire choir Songs For All in the event, further rooting the show in local culture.
Bone also acknowledged the importance of the mentorship and support he has received along his career path, particularly from the King. “I find him to be an amazing man – he’s so genuinely interested in giving opportunities to people who would otherwise have no access to them,” he said. He recalled his childhood experiences in Auchinleck, nearby Dumfries House, and expressed the surreal nature of now conversing about his journey with His Majesty, describing how the King’s pride in his achievements feels like a significant validation of his progress.
Bone noted the practical skills he acquired through his studies at Dumfries House but emphasised that the connections he formed with industry professionals were of greater value. “I had the chance to meet so many inspirational people from the fashion industry, which boosted my confidence and helped me focus on what my end goal could be,” he added.
The Dressed To Kilt fashion show is a notable event within the annual Tartan Week festivities, celebrating Scottish heritage and the kilt's place in contemporary fashion, set to bring together a vibrant mixture of talent from across the community.
Source: Noah Wire Services