HOUSE OF BLACK’ S/S 2026 ‘Patchwork Pirates’ Collection
Words by Lori
Photos by Zara Stuart
Who Are House Of Black?
House of Black is a Glasgow based design company owned by designer David Black, who has branded himself as “Glasgow's Doctor Frankenstein Of Fashion” thanks to his unique design methods. Having left Heriot Watt University with a Masters in Fashion & Textiles, his history includes interning at Marks &Spencer and working within costume and wardrobe for several theatre companies. By age 34, fuelled by his passion for sustainable fashion, he created his own label, House of Black.
David’s grandmother likened his business model to the “rag and bone man”, an endearing analogy for a sustainably sound set up for his label. I remember the rag and bone man and would beg my mum for old clothes so that I could get a free balloon. David is Glasgow’s modern day rag and bone man, except you get a much cooler prize in return - wearing the transformed textiles. David has created multiple unique and inspired collections using discarded clothes and end-of-line items from charity shops to save them from going to landfill. Of the 100 billion garments produced each year, 92 million tonnes end up in landfills, and David is committed to playing his part in transforming unwanted clothing into wearable new pieces.
His materials are mostly donated to him and as a result of not paying for the materials he uses, he is able to offer unique, sustainable clothing at a fraction of the price of other design houses with similar methods.
What Is The S/S 2026 Patchwork Pirates Collection?
Patchwork Pirates S/S 26 is made purely from scraps of fabric and leftover material from all of his previous collections. Drawing inspiration from media such as The Borrowers, Patchwork Girl of Oz, artists like Boy George, and musicians such as Dexys Midnight Runners, the collection combines post-apocalyptic elements with the New Romantic era.
The collection is made up of a variety of different garments; coats, jackets, dungarees, maxi dresses, suits, skirts, jumpers, waistcoats and palazzo trousers are all included, styled on the runway with quirky, eye-catching accessories. There is a clear juxtaposition of chaotic patchwork sitting within recognisable form to ground the designs. Tailoring, trench shapes and traditional dress silhouettes anchor the bold combinations of colours and patterns, allowing them to remain wearable despite their visual complexity.
As the models moved down the runway, the mood leaned towards moody and confrontational, which worked well against the colourful patchwork garments. The exuberant youth of the models encased within almost nostalgic patterns and textures carries a familiar but not too domestic quality.
Key characters on the runway such as “Mr Peaky Blinder” who opened the show, stepped out before walking the runway in a patchwork trench and trousers. One of the key looks was the “Vivienne Westwood” inspired outfit: patchwork denim and a waistcoat paired with a white puff-sleeve, high-collared blouse and tie, platform boots, and a patchwork-wrapped umbrella or walking stick. The look carried a strong 80s influence and balanced power with femininity.
Another standout was the “Punked Up Elton” look. This featured a grey oversized blazer with gem-trimmed lapels and pockets, paired with a long patchwork skirt and green platform boots. The accessories, including chandelier-style glasses with gems hanging from them, alongside the model’s mohawk and attitude, completed the look.
The final look of the show saved the best for last. A calf-length rockabilly-style lace slip dress with a tulle underskirt was layered over a lace puff-sleeved blouse with cream collars and cuffs, creating the illusion of a single bridal-core garment. It was styled with off-white platform boots and a simple bouquet to complete the look.
Our Verdict
I loved this collection, particularly the way it draws from David’s past work and reuses materials. It feels like a continuation of previous collections, paying homage to creations past without bastardizing them. David’s commitment to sustainability is clear, as his S/S 2026 Patchwork Pirates Collection shows the world that even though he himself is not immune from textile waste, he's not afraid to be a textile repeater.
If you’re interested in seeing more of his wide range of garments available, visit his website or take a wander down to his studio, where you can learn more about his process, his team and how long it takes him to create each piece. His passion for what he does is unmatched, and he manages to create fresh new styles without compromising an inch of edge in the process.