
The Story of Geoffrey (Tailor) Kiltmaker
Occupying historic 16th-century stone premises at 57-59 High Street in the Netherbow district, Geoffrey (Tailor) Kiltmaker is internationally recognized as a pioneering force in contemporary and traditional Scottish Highland wear. Founded in 1971 by master tailor Geoffrey Nicholsby, the firm transformed modern kilt culture by introducing tailored tweed kilt jackets and designing official commemorative tartans, blending heritage tailoring with runway sophistication.
The multi-level High Street atelier houses an active bespoke tailoring workshop where time-served tailors measure, cut, and hand-finish garments on the premises. While honoring classic eight-yard worsted wool kilt construction, Geoffrey (Tailor) earned widespread acclaim for replacing austere black barathea jackets with textured Scottish tweed day jackets, finished with custom horn buttons, contrast collar welts, and bespoke silk linings dyed to complement individual tartans.
The Nicholsby family has also registered numerous historic and contemporary tartans on the Scottish Register of Tartans, including corporate, civic, and private family designs. Patrons visiting the High Street store experience an inspiring blend of deep sartorial expertise and design innovation, whether commissioning a full formal Highland dress package or purchasing luxurious cashmere scarves and artisan sporrans.
Signature Specialties & Crafts
Key Venue Highlights
Pioneering master kiltmaker est. 1971, credited with popularizing tweed jackets for formal Highland wear
Official creators of Edinburgh's Millennial and Scottish Rugby tartans with custom design service
In-house tailoring workshops hand-stitching bespoke 8-yard kilts on the Royal Mile
“Inquire about pairing your kilt with a bespoke tweed Crail jacket woven in earthy lovat tones rather than standard formal black barathea.”
Tax-Free & Overseas Shopping Advice
Full direct international courier delivery zero-rating 20% UK VAT on overseas orders.
Direct overseas export zero-rates UK 20% VAT on qualifying purchases dispatched to non-UK residential addresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Geoffrey Nicholsby really invent the tweed kilt jacket?
Geoffrey Nicholsby pioneered the modern tweed kilt jacket in the late 20th century as an elegant, versatile daytime alternative to traditional black evening coatees.
Can Geoffrey (Tailor) design a brand-new custom tartan for my family?
Yes, the firm provides custom tartan design services, weaving trial swatches and formally registering the new design with the Scottish Register of Tartans.
Are fitting consultations available for international travelers visiting Edinburgh?
Personal fitting appointments can be booked with in-house master tailors, with finished bespoke garments shipped to your overseas address.
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