As an American with Scottish heritage, choosing a tartan can be an exciting way to connect with your ancestral roots. However, with thousands of tartans available, the process can seem daunting.
Here’s a helpful guide to selecting the perfect tartan for you.
1. Research your family history
The first step is to investigate your Scottish ancestry.
If you have a common Scottish surname, like MacDonald or Campbell, you may be able to easily identify your clan tartan.
“If your last name is common like MacDonald or your Grandmother was a Wallace, then not much research is required,” explains Highland Kilt Company. “You’ll be able to find those tartans right away.”
However, if your last name is less well-known, don’t worry. Many smaller Scottish families were associated with larger clans, so you may still be able to find a tartan connection through a bit of research.
If your surname is less common, look into clan septs – other family names that fall under a specific clan. For example, “Robinson is a Sept of the Gunn clan,” according to Highland Kilt Company.
2. Consider district and universal tartans
If your clan doesn’t have its own tartan or you prefer not to wear a clan tartan, consider exploring district tartans.
“Some Scottish clans do not have their own tartan, but rather fall under District tartans like Glasgow District,” notes Highland Kilt Company.
These tartans represent specific regions of Scotland rather than individual clans.
Some popular examples include the Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Fife district tartans. This can be a great option if you feel a strong connection to a particular part of Scotland.
Another option is to choose a universal tartan. These tartans are not tied to any specific clan or district and are open for anyone to wear.
Some well-known universal tartans include Black Watch, Royal Stewart, and Caledonian.
These tartans are often used for military, wedding parties, or formal occasions, but they can be worn by anyone who appreciates their timeless design or seeking a uniform look.
3. Don’t feel limited by rules
While some may insist on only wearing your clan tartan, the reality is more flexible.
As USA Kilts & Celtic Traditions points out, “Scots tend to be a little less concerned about what specific Tartan they are wearing and having a personal affiliation with that particular Tartan.”
They often choose tartans based on personal preference rather than strict clan affiliation.
4. Embrace your Irish heritage (Yes, I’m serious!)
If you also have Irish heritage, you might consider selecting an Irish county or district tartan.
While Irish tartans are less common than Scottish ones, they do exist and can be a beautiful way to honor your Irish roots. Popular Irish tartans include Tara, Ulster, and Saffron.
“Few Irish tartans are tied to family names but are more universal/District based tartans,” explains Highland Kilt Company. Saffron and Solid Green are also historically Irish choices.
5. Choose a tartan you love
Ultimately, the most important factor is selecting a tartan that resonates with you.
While it’s wonderful to have a tartan with historical significance to your family, don’t feel limited by this. Many Scots themselves choose tartans based on their favorite colors or patterns rather than strict clan affiliation.
As Scotland House Ltd. emphasizes, “There’s no rule that you need a reason to wear a tartan. Maybe you just like the colors.”
When you’ve settled on a tartan you love, you may notice that it comes in several different variations.
Modern tartans feature bold, vibrant colors, while ancient tartans use more muted, earthy tones. Weathered tartans and muted tartans mimic the look of a well-worn kilt, with soft, faded hues. Hunting tartans often incorporate green and brown tones, while dress tartans feature a large amount of white for formal occasions.
Choose the variation that best suits your personal style and the event you’ll be wearing your kilt to.
In Short
In the words of Highland Kilt Company, “The most important thing is you choose a tartan you like for your kilt! That is all that matters.”
As an American, you have the unique opportunity to celebrate your Scottish heritage in a way that is meaningful to you.
Whether you choose a tartan with deep family connections, tied to a district you love, or simply a design that catches your eye, wearing a kilt is a powerful way to connect with your ancestors and show pride in your roots.
So, embrace the rich tradition of tartan and wear yours with confidence, knowing that you are part of a centuries-old legacy.
If you’re curious to learn more about the fascinating world of traditional Scottish attire, be sure to check out our in-depth article: Highland Dress: A Guide to Traditional Scottish Clothes.
This comprehensive guide explores the history and components of the iconic Scottish dress, from the kilt and sporran to the ghillie shirt and Argyll jacket.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Scotland, attending a Celtic festival, or simply interested in Scottish culture, this article is a must-read.
Head over to Highland Dress Guide to discover the rich heritage and timeless style of the Scottish Highlands.
References
[1] USA Kilts & Celtic Traditions
IMPORTANT: Feel free to explore our other travel guides while you’re here – you might discover some delightful surprises! Plus, every visit helps support our small business. We truly appreciate it.
