Ragged Kingdom plaid

Strangely “cock & bull” wool/cotton mix plaid fabric sold by the metre.

Origin & history 

The Ragged Kingdom refers to the area of woodland located above Knighton on the Welsh Borders, blending the natural beauty of the landscape with its historical and cultural significance. This area, situated on the edge of Wales and England, is known for its rugged terrain, picturesque views, and ecological richness. Its evocative name ties into the wild, untamed feel of the woodlands and the rich history of the ragged border region.

Knighton itself is a small market town straddling the England-Wales border, known for its position on the Offa’s Dyke Path, an ancient earthwork that historically marked the boundary between Mercia and the Welsh kingdoms. Ragged Kingdom is part of this area & reflects the intertwining of nature and history as well as its landscape with its sense of mystery and depth.

This bold tartan design reflects the eclectic and rebellious essence of the “Ragged Kingdom” & its colours and layout help to symbolise its character and history. Jamie Reid the punk artist was greatly influenced by this area & later used its name in his art:

1. Bright Red: Representing passion, defiance, and the raw energy of punk culture, which is deeply connected to the idea of “Ragged Kingdom.” The vibrant red conveys boldness and individuality.

2. Electric Blue: Suggesting creativity, innovation, and an unconventional spirit, this color evokes a sense of freedom and breaking away from tradition.

3. Yellow Accents: Highlighting the playful and anarchic elements of the kingdom, the yellow stripes symbolize optimism and a clash with the conventional.

4. Black: Grounding the tartan, black ties it to themes of rebellion, subculture, and the stark contrast against mainstream conformity.

5. Pattern Layout: The vibrant contrasts and sharp intersections reflect the chaotic yet harmonious blend of influences that define “Ragged Kingdom” — a fusion of history, heritage and counterculture.

This tartan celebrates an aesthetic that is both raw and refined, encapsulating a kingdom of individuality and defiance as well as its natural rugged terrain & spiritual essence. 

Disclaimer: The fashion plaids designed by Strangely are inspired by fables and whimsical storytelling, weaving cock-and-bull tales into their threads. However, the place names and historical elements interwoven into these designs are based on true stories, grounding our chaos of couture in authentic heritage. As fablers, we mix truth and fiction to create patterns that honor both history and imagination.

“fablers of crooked clothing & damaged millinery”