Custom tartan kilts are a type of pattern that is commonly associated with Scottish culture. It consists of crisscrossing horizontal and vertical lines of different colors, creating a distinctive and recognizable design. While tartan is often used in traditional Scottish clothing, such as kilts and scarves, it has become a popular fashion choice around the world. But are there any rules about wearing tartan? Here’s what you need to know.
The History Of Tartan
The tartan kilt is a traditional garment that has its roots in Scotland. Its history dates back to the 16th century when the Scottish Highlands were under the rule of the English monarchy.
Over time, the kilt evolved into the more recognizable garment we know today. It became known as the “little kilt” or “feileadh beag.”
In the 19th century, the custom tartan kilts became more widely popularized as a symbol of Scottish national identity. Queen Victoria’s fondness for Scotland and her frequent visits there helped to popularize the kilt among the Scottish people and beyond. The Scottish kilted regiments of the British Army also played a significant role in popularizing the garment.
Today, the tartan kilt is often worn for special occasions and formal events, such as weddings and Highland games. It remains a symbol of Scottish heritage and pride, and the various tartan patterns continue to hold significance for different clans and families.
Wearing Tartan Today
Nowadays, anyone can wear tartan, regardless of their heritage or background. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to wearing this distinctive pattern. Here are some guidelines to consider:
Wearing tartan today can take many different forms, from traditional kilts and other Highland dress to modern fashion and accessories.
Traditional Highland Dress: The most common way to wear tartan is by wearing traditional Highland dress, which includes a tartan kilt, jacket, and sporran (a small pouch worn around the waist). The outfit is typically completed with a white shirt, tie, and hose (knee-high socks) with garters. A Sgian Dubh (a small knife) is often worn tucked into the top of the hose.
Modern Tartan Fashion: Modern custom tartan kilts Fashion is a popular trend that incorporates tartan fabric into contemporary clothing and accessories. Tartan has become a popular choice for designers and fashion enthusiasts alike, with its bold and colorful patterns making a statement in various styles and outfits.
Here are some examples of modern tartan fashion:
Tartan Jackets:
Tartan jackets are a great way to incorporate the pattern into your wardrobe. They can be worn with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual look, or dressed up with trousers for a more formal outfit.
Tartan Skirts and Dresses:
skirts and dresses are a popular choice for women, and come in a variety of styles and lengths.
Tartan Trousers:
Trousers are a bold and statement-making choice. They can be paired with a plain shirt or sweater for a simple yet stylish look.
Tartan Scarves and Accessories:
Tartan scarves, hats, and bags are popular accessories that can add a pop of color and style to any outfit. They are a great way to incorporate tartan into your wardrobe without going overboard.
Overall, modern tartan fashion is a great way to embrace Scottish heritage and add some bold and colorful patterns to your wardrobe. Whether you opt for a full tartan outfit or incorporate it into your accessories, it’s sure to make a statement.
Tartan for Special Occasions:
Many people choose to wear tartan for special occasions like weddings, parties, and other formal events. In addition to traditional Highland dress, tartan can be incorporated into formalwear like evening gowns and tuxedos.
Tartan in Sports:
custom tartan kilts is also commonly associated with Scottish sports, particularly the Highland Games. Competitors often wear kilts in their clan tartan, and events like tug-of-war and caber tossing are held in traditional Highland dress.
Tartan in Military:
Tartan has a strong association with military uniforms in Scotland, particularly in the regiments of the British Army. Each regiment has its own tartan pattern, and soldiers wear the kilt as part of their dress uniform.
These regiments wore kilts made from tartan cloth, which served to identify them as Scottish and to distinguish them from other units.
Today, custom tartan kilts remains an important part of military dress in Scotland. The Royal Regiment of Scotland, which was formed in 2006 from the amalgamation of several Scottish regiments, has a variety of tartan patterns associated with its different battalions. Other Scottish units, such as the Scots Guards and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, also wear tartan as part of their dress uniform.
The use of tartan in military dress serves to reinforce the strong cultural ties between
Overall, tartan has become a symbol of Scottish heritage and identity, and wearing it is a way for people to show pride in their Scottish roots.
Conclusion
So, are there rules about wearing tartan? While there aren’t necessarily strict rules, there are some guidelines to consider when incorporating this distinctive pattern into your wardrobe. By keeping your outfit simple, sticking to one tartan pattern at a time, and considering the occasion,