RIBBON BELTS

 Excited about a new line of Grosgrain belts ,   solid ribbon with cotton webbing and our little Terrier embroidered logo . classic color combinations for just the right pop in your wardrobe ! Of course there is a real live terrier in view

Sailor Dog! and new designs

It is hard to keep up with all the social media , twitter, facebook, this blog,  the Etsy  selling site for my products : https://www.etsy.com/listing/201914903/handmade-custom-slipon-shoes-from?ref=shop_home_active_13
 and constantly  trying to come up with new and exciting clothing and accessory ideas . I have been putting in a big effort to create  a cohesive line of sail bags and clothing. I have designed a new bag with Mylar sailcloth , bright patch madras , bold webbing and of course the signature 2 handles for shoulder and toting .  New needle point belt and wallets with some new" Sailor Dog" motifs , really excited about this, great quality and a reasonable needlepoint price point !
 Finally had the ribbon worked up in belts and and some great wine bags and canvas  totes trimmed in this fun ribbon and red webbing and trim .

New pigment dyed Vneck hoddies for ladies with very cool new  nautical burgees .
  Fun  ball caps in sun drenched colors with cordinating embroidered burgees .
  Grosgrain  d ring belts in brights orange , lime , sunshine , and hot pink  of course with Tartan Terrier embroidered logo.
 I am so pleased with the results I can't wait to share these new products and  launch the "sailor dog burgee" collection !
 
 of course as one can see below Mr. Macbean my 11 year old fiesty  Cairn inspired it all!


 

 

This simple white  cotton tennis hat with green under visor has sold so well , it's timeless and practical I see no reason to chage it , sizes S,M,L,XL  $20.00 with terrier , logo.

New D ring belts have arrived a classic navy and cream  Glen plaid and a traditional Madras in navy , wine and yellow they look great  with the  Terrier logo and are available in men's and ladies sizes $34.00

   Next up? working on Sheltland sweaters from Scotland as well as continuing to bring over the unique Black sheep wool cable Shetlands in their unique brown heather color which is there natural state.

The ebb and flow of things......

To this point the Tartan Terrier has been a bit of a experiment  , would people like the logo? what products would sell?, what direction to take?  All very interesting and I must say a bit stressful as it all costs money and times are tough to say the least!
   I am very encouraged by a few things and disappointed by others The  Tartan Terrier logo  has been so well received , which is so satisfying ! finding American products  to put it on not so easy . You would think a USA made polo shirt would be not that difficult , well it is! I have found one but it only is available in a few basic colors  . The shirt is very nice and I have been wearing one and the quality is very good .
   Also going forward a private label Polo of Supima cotton of the highest quality is on the way of course with  Terrier logo and in some fantastic colors this will be my signature Item.
    A few weeks out I have designed a embroidered ribbon with the tartan terrier logo I am looking forward to having leather tab buckle belts made perhaps tote bags trimmed  with the ribbon, key fobs  maybe even flip flops  !

  I just put in some some fun caps with the burgee logo and  a cool military shape Gul sailing hat  both should be up on the site today
  One last thought I am considering opening a retail location( Ct.) with a small store featuring the full line Gul sailing gear and clothing and the the Tartan Terrier clothing   It is a big decision the retail environment  is difficult and and there is no room for mistakes I'd love some feedback!
    Almost forgot adding the Kaenon sunglasses the premier sailing glasses worn by professional sailors and everyone in between great looking frames made in Italy and of course the best polarized  lens for all things water very excited about these great sunglasses!

Custom Bermuda Bags

With summer almost here I ordered more wooden handles for the Bermuda bags , I have 2 new patch madras fabrics and a nice madras mini tartan which would make a fun bag with contrast welting, as well as a soft pink Lilly print with lime green coral "color me coral. Monograms or the Tartan Terrier embroidered logo can also be added These bags are all hand made with leather buttons and diamond quilted inner liner , and key pocket inside $95.00 plus $12.00 for Monogram or Tartan Terrier embroidery. www.tartanterrier.com

Website Live And New Products

I am so pleased with the look of the site! and the way it works . Ck it out ! I am constantly adding new Items and searching here and abroad for quality sportswear without the  B.S. What I mean by that is fair pricing, great fabrics a good fit and traditional styling. My terrier Logo continues to make me smile with the response it is getting , just think it looks great on certain items, but I am biased!
     Been looking for a nice polo made in America, and finally  found one that won't break the bank decided on 3 fitting colors red, white and navy . The polo has a 3 button placket with wood-tone buttons and a really nice ribbed collar and arm cuffs 6.2 oz. combed cotton pique, with Tartan Terrier logo $32.00 and your supporting 2 American companies.

    From England Sunspel since the 1860's  beautiful woollens and knitwear their Riviera polo shirt is worn by celebs like Daniel Craig and Christian Bale , the cotton is exquisite imported from Portugal  this is one special polo shirt . I have stripes and solids on the way.

Also excited about starting with Kaenon  Polarized  sunglasses, known as the sunglasses of choice for professional sailors around the world , and people who just want the best protection for there eyes.  These stylish glasses should be a welcome addition  and fit right in with the Gul U.K.  sailing  gear we offer.
Exciting stuff, well at least I am excited about these things!

Summer and Madras!

 Well I suppose Summer is not that far off , though it is almost always summer here in Florida.
   For me it has always been a time to break out the great fun colors and of course madras and Patch madras , the super soft Indian cotton and those bright and muted plaids simply define summer in some ways for those who enjoy classic traditional clothing. Madras is not just plaid but refers to a kind of light weight woven cotton from this region of India  the soft hand , slight imperfections and melding of colors all define this fantastic fabric. In the old days the non colorfast dyes bled together in the plaids when washed to create a even more stunning look.

  I am going to be offering some great new patterns for Bermuda bags , skirts  , belts headbands and even  a classic custom sportcoat/ cocktail jacket 3 button front undarted , perfect for summer parties! All these Items are in stock and of my own designs plus many more .

Belts & Bags

 Been feverishly making new Ideas come to life , D ring belts are some of my favorite accessories I like the way they add just a bit of spark and fun to everyday clothes , and the motifs or patterns let people know what some of your interests are , kind of a greeting card without speaking. I tartan belt love the way the terrier embroidery just pops off the wool tartan. The Nantucket red belt  looks great with just about anything  and is made in guys and gals sizes. The batik in it's bright pinks and greens should prove very versatile. $34.00

  The totebags were one of the first things that came to mind when  I started The Tartan Terrier and a good one is is indispensable using pieces from North Sails these bags with shoulder straps and handles are very rugged and perfect for boat or shopping with just the right nautical flair. The sail tie trim is embroidered with the terrier logo  I sold the first run out so I must be on to something..... $72.00
  I can be contacted @ 772 634-4363 and take major CC.

where to go from here......

Lots of ideas always racing through my mind and one of my terriers are always doing something funny or cute so the inspirations keep flowing! Was at a event the other nite for women and had my products on display for sale,  lots of smiles and compliments and over heard one say to another "these things are so great, so over the top preppy, like Vinyard Vines with a cute terrier" . Needles to say that was nice to hear. Sure I have my doubts and it is a risk to try to start something from scratch , sadly I get the feeling that some people hope you fail just so they can say told you so... hope that not true, but it is in the recesses of my mind.

   I must begin to really market this , the website has been redesigned, and will be functioning very soon!, need to get  the search engine marketing going and broaden my reach, really tap into the consumers who love these fun classics I had a lady just keep smiling at touching one of the pink and green custom Bermuda bags , I wish she bought it! but the look on her face told me I'm on the right track, I am very encouraged by what I have sold and the smiles on the faces of those who first see my things , that feels pretty good.

Life & and Fine Clothing

AS I approach 50 Years of living , I feel pretty good ,I have found fitness after all these years and find it to to be worth its weight in therapy, it definitely yields really big, life changing  benefits. I sleep better, its a natural anti depressant , and it definitely helps your attitude and outlook on things. I say if , working out or fitness is not apart of your life right now make it! commit to walking just 20 minutes a day to start out and see a difference.
   Live in the present, stop worrying about your past and your mistakes, I have made plenty!! I am trying to make a conscious effort  to live in the present, I try too fill my mental space with things I can do now instead of filling my brain with worries and what could  have been from the past , not easy but I'm trying.
  Finding  balance in your life, so hard , working long hours trying to make ends meet, family etc. Killing your self through overwork is not good, it is unhealthy , I think I worked so much in the 1990's and 2000's I can't even remember one year from the next when I look back, I wish someone had suggested a healthy work/ life balance, and the importance of  prioritizing happiness, remember no on looks back on there life and says Gee, I wish I had spent less time with my family and friends and more time at work or the office, well maybe some goof balls think that!
  This brings me too fine clothing , treat yourself to something nice, in the way of clothing . Today it seems everybody buys electronics , tablets, phones, Ipods etc, but neglect there dress. I like nice clothes they make me feel good and there is nothing wrong with a little self pride in the way one looks.

 I don't mean run out too Marshalls  or some other closeout junk store! Find something nice ,shoes from Italy  A sweater from Scotland , something made right here in the USA! break the pattern of buying junk clothes from China, build a wardrobe one piece at a time . Good clothes last, they are a investment that should give one pleasure for years to come. So next time you reach for that weird shade of turquoise , or those pants with the strange pockets and convince yourself they are ok , because the price is right and it says it was orig. $600. 00 now $29.99 think again  , our clothes make a impression, I think it might be better to be seen as a timeless classic rather than last years bad decision............

Style Inspriations....... The Avengers!!

I don't know why but I tend to look back instead of the present when it comes to style and design, inspiration , it just seems to me , people , cars , homes, and yes our manners were just better, and evoked class and style.  When I was a wee lad  I used to love The Avengers TV show , John Steed and Emma Peel, they were so cool!, great clothes , the lotus and Bentley cars, and of course their epic adventures each episode brought. Emma Peel was way ahead of her time , a confident no nonsense woman, Ha! she'd fit right in today 40 years later. Mr. steeds  suits were impeccable and his signature bowler hat and umbrella so very British. I understand in real life he served in the military and grew to despise guns, so he had his character, use his hat and umbrella as a personal statement against guns . Emma peel was always dressed to thrill , in true 60's style :) and despite her no nonsense self reliance she still needed Mr. Steed sometimes in the end , which was nice to see and together they got job done which is a message seemingly forgotten , in real life and on today's mostly  lousy tv shows. I still watch the show and I still think Emma Peel (Dianna Riggs ) is one cool Lady and Mr. Steed , well , today's Man could benefit from his sense of style and grace in my mind it'sorely missed.......... .

Design Ideas.....

 For me half the battle is coming up with  clothing and accessories that will be classic and fun too wear. I would like to create more men's  items, but I'm afraid most men have zero sense of style or really care anymore! Of course I will continue to seek out great men's things but I am cautious to say the least. As a example take a look at the current Lilly Men's line , A few ties and polo shirts and swim trunks......,



 

1968



1967

I have no idea who these two are ! , but they look pretty snazzy!  and it is nice to see people having fun with clothes.

   I have been thinking about trying some very simple A line ladies skirts and  sleeveless Shift dresses that harken back, in time , I have come across some great fabrics that seem perfect for the  styles I have in mind . I like to look at old ads which I have mentioned before in previous posts, for inspiration , and I have found patterns that are in keeping with my ideas, so I think I will give it a whirl in small doses  . Who knows If I feel brave enough , perhaps some fun wild men's pants are in order for the future!!

Walks, Thoughts and the Tartan Terrier......

I have always enjoyed walking  over the last 4 months combined with diet and fitness training , lost 44 LBS. I guess a big deal, I know I feel great and My bloodwork  has changed so much my doctor first read and cked the name to see if she was reading  some other persons results!!, So I am pleased, and my goal is too stay this way from now on, no simple task.   I  am kinda wound up most of the time , walking really helps to burn some extra energy , and be at home with my thoughts, and I love walking with my little Jack Russel Terrier , Joplin, she likes the walks as much as I do and can match my pace step for step!
     
     I also do alot of thinking about  this little business and my life , creating and selling great clothes and accessories by adding a little twist on classics and putting it all together into the Tartan Terrier theme and brand, It really excites me and my hope is others will see my passion and see the value and quality , and ultimately want to buy and  Wear them!
      As  young boy hanging around  My families clothing store I was intrigued with the fabrics, textures colors and fashions  I enjoyed learning from my grandfather, and dad about how clothes were made, the function of certain styles etc. It has always been interesting for me , and isn't that half the battle , finding something you are passionate about ?
    Doing this is something I have thought about  off and on for 30 years, When I was in College I wanted to finish get out and help my Dad in his store, help grow it and take it to the next level of success. A few Months after my graduation , my Mom died suddenly , needless to say it changed my plans and my life forever.
   I have had a interesting life  ever since, success and yes failure  in business, I"ve learned and grown from both, made many mistakes and come out he other side with my sanity somewhat intact!! I have never been a follower, I do my own thing and scoff at  the Idea that if everybody has one or is doing something it has to be better. I like being surrounded by nice things , clothes , cars, furnature, home decor etc, Not that they have to be expensive or new , just nice, tasteful and make you feel good to be around them., treasured things handed down, with meaning are extra special. These days it's a throw away world , and that is  disappointing . People flock to Target , Walmart, Etc, for god awful junk that just falls apart and you just throw it away, we are raising a generation to believe this is how it is supposed to be! As a country we used to make quality things  with pride , now  we just buy junk from other countries, do people really think this is  the way a country prospers? Sure a few people are making huge money at  the eveyday mans expense and laughing all the way too the bank! My point of all this ? I am trying to buy and work with small companies here and in the U.K. that make quality things and  offer unique products that will last and give a sense of pride of ownership, it is not easy , but having something nice is worth it and I just really hope I can make people feel good about the things I have to offer........  As far as my walking I do it everyday , 9 miles! it is amazing how many ideas you can come up with and how good The excerise can make you feel!!

Sailing Gear

 Having always pretty much been around the water my whole life  , you come to realize you need good foul weather protection! It can make or break you day on or around the water! I have tried just about every brand out there , and they are all pretty good , Alot comes down too brand loyalty. I have noticed since J.P. has been sailing and racing since he was a wee little kid , like sneakers kids want to be on the water in the right gear, even if its inferior if it got the name , wear it!






    I have recently started ordering and stocking a few things from Gul of England , Since 1967 , they have been making wetsuits and keeping English sailors and watermen warm. I like the breathable waterproof ,lightweight outershells, fine fleece linings and the longer tails to keep your backside warm! they make  great spray tops for dingy sailors and offshore jackets and bibs for big boats sailors too. when I 'm just hanging around the water , sometimes its damp or windy its just nice to have the right jacket or vest on , Gul really has it all, in typical tasteful English style of subtle colors and pure function and durability for men ladies and kid sizes too!  Hopefully the website will be functioning soon! I know I am ready to launch Gul to those who want the best.

Vintage sportcar racing

 My great Passion it seems is Vintage sportscar racing , I have been told recently I am a obsessive compulsive person with tendency to be over the top with my energy level, in short this makes  me a pain in the ass to be around for the most part I guess ! my brain never stops thinking I am always moving , while others may be on the ground going about at a perfectly normal pace I seem to be flying around on another plane . I get bored easily and I like change . I have tried all kinds of sports , my least favorite being Golf , Christ is that a frustrating and annoying game.
    I have always loved cars , they way they look the way they sound , smell, and the passion some brands evoke . I have owned so many cars I have lost count , some disappointments , some like a beautiful lady but always temperamental, and a few that were just simply a joy to drive and own.

    Vintage racing just seemed to fit for me , My favorite old cars racing ,like minded people , the challenge , and finally something moving at the same pace as my over the top energy! I explained to others that for me at speed in the racecar  things seem to slow down almost in slow motion , it becomes very graceful and fluid,it may seem violent from afar but in reality the driver , hardly moves the wheel , being smooth is fast , and that's hard at over 100 MPH.

  I have taken a break for various reasons, , I thought for a bit ahh, I don't need it anymore, but simply I miss it. I worked at it and there was a sense of pride in my getting better and better , and being respected for my driving skill and the level of preparation I put into my cars, they became a reflection  of me and a extension of who I am. I have found without this in my life something is missing ,I don't need it like I did a few years back when it was racing or nothing ! But I would like to go a few times a year to my favorite tracks  and see friends and climb into the cockpit , buckle up and tingle the senses and feel the rush of  racing really cool old cars again. I hope somehow in time I can get a sportsracer like the ones pictured here , they are fast , pure racecars and evoke the essence of racing in a bygone era.
  I have also been told I need to save some of my dreams for the future and not live them all in the present !
    I'm really trying to work on that! I love my Elva Curier , but a Elva mark 6 looks like so much fun........