Top 10 Best Clothing Brands in Orkney Islands

Fashion Shaped by Wind, Sea and Heritage

Orkney's climate demands clothing that works hard. Strong winds sweep across the low-lying islands, rain can arrive within minutes, and summer temperatures rarely climb very high. At the same time, Orkney has a proud creative tradition, with designers and makers drawing inspiration from Neolithic monuments, Norse history and the islands' dramatic seascapes. The result is a clothing culture that blends practical outdoor wear with beautifully crafted local knitwear and textiles.

This guide brings together the ten best clothing brands for Orkney, including island-based designers whose work is sold in Kirkwall and Stromness and widely respected British brands that perform brilliantly in island conditions.

The Top 10 Clothing Brands for Orkney

1. Judith Glue

Judith Glue is one of Orkney's best-known designers, famous for vibrant knitwear inspired by the islands' landscapes and heritage. Her Kirkwall shop, opposite St Magnus Cathedral, showcases jumpers, hats and scarves alongside work by other Orkney makers, and it has become a destination for visitors seeking authentic island design.

2. Hume Sweet Hume

Based on the island of Westray, Hume Sweet Hume creates distinctive knitted accessories and homeware with bold graphic patterns. Its pieces reflect a modern take on island knitting traditions, and the brand has earned a loyal following for its craftsmanship and contemporary style.

3. Quernstone

Quernstone in Stromness is a well-loved independent retailer known for carefully curated clothing, knitwear and gifts. Its selection highlights quality natural fabrics and Scottish design, offering locals and visitors stylish pieces suited to island life.

4. Barbour

Barbour's waxed cotton jackets have long been a staple of rural Britain, and they are perfectly suited to Orkney's wet and windy weather. Durable, rewaxable and timeless, a Barbour jacket can last for decades, making it a sustainable investment for farmers, walkers and townsfolk alike.

5. Harris Tweed

Harris Tweed is the only fabric in the world protected by its own Act of Parliament and handwoven in the Outer Hebrides. Jackets, caps and accessories made with Harris Tweed offer exceptional warmth and durability, and their heritage appeal resonates strongly with island communities across Scotland.

6. Helly Hansen

Founded in Norway, Helly Hansen has deep maritime roots that make it a natural fit for Orkney. Its sailing and outdoor ranges are trusted by fishermen, sailors and outdoor workers, with waterproof, breathable technology built for North Atlantic conditions.

7. Musto

Musto is a British brand known for technical sailing and country clothing. Orkney's sailing community, including those who compete in regattas around Scapa Flow, appreciates Musto's high-performance waterproof layers and stylish casual wear.

8. Craghoppers

Craghoppers offers affordable, practical outdoor clothing designed for walking and travel. Its waterproof jackets, fleeces and trousers are ideal for exploring Orkney's archaeological sites, coastal paths and the hills of Hoy.

9. Seasalt Cornwall

Seasalt Cornwall designs coastal-inspired clothing with a relaxed, artistic feel. Its Breton tops, waterproof raincoats and prints resonate with island lifestyles, and its focus on organic cotton and responsible sourcing appeals to environmentally conscious shoppers.

10. Fat Face

Fat Face combines casual comfort with an outdoorsy spirit, offering knitwear, sweatshirts and everyday essentials. Its laid-back style suits Orkney's casual dress culture, where practicality and comfort are valued over formality.

Orkney's Textile Heritage

Knitting and textile production have deep roots in Orkney, from traditional ganseys worn by fishermen to modern designer knitwear. Local wool, including from North Ronaldsay sheep, which famously graze on seaweed along the shore, gives island textiles a unique story. Many contemporary designers draw inspiration from Neolithic carvings at Skara Brae, Norse runes at Maeshowe and patterns found in the islands' natural landscape.

Shopping Trends in Orkney

Orcadians increasingly favour quality over quantity, choosing durable garments that withstand the climate and last for years. Locally made and sustainable fashion is in demand, both among residents and the growing number of cruise ship and heritage visitors who want meaningful souvenirs. Online shopping fills gaps in local availability, although delivery surcharges to island postcodes encourage many shoppers to support local stores in Kirkwall and Stromness.

Tips for Dressing for Orkney

Layering is essential. Start with a breathable base, add warm knitwear or fleece, and finish with a windproof, waterproof outer shell. Hats and gloves are useful year-round, especially on exposed headlands. Choose natural fibres such as wool for warmth even when damp, and invest in a high-quality jacket, which will be your most-used item of clothing in the islands.

Supporting Local Designers

Buying from Orkney designers supports skilled craft jobs and keeps island traditions alive. Many local makers sell through studios, craft trails and independent shops, offering a chance to meet the people behind the products and learn the stories woven into every piece.

Conclusion

Orkney's best clothing brands combine beauty, function and heritage. Whether you are investing in a hand-finished Judith Glue jumper, a Westray-made accessory from Hume Sweet Hume or a reliable Helly Hansen jacket for coastal walks, these ten brands will keep you warm, stylish and ready for whatever the Orkney weather brings.