Expand All | Collapse All

The "Tartan Rush" that began in 1792 continues unabated to this day. The exponential growth in the number of recorded tartan patterns has far outpaced any population growth among Scottish people. In the year 1800, as an example, the number of named tartans in existence was approximately 100. Currently, the full Master Index of the Scottish Tartans Authority, a quasi-official body that works with designers and the textile industry to document new and old tartans, contains more than 5,500 recorded tartans.

Of this 5,500 number, only around 3,000 or so could properly be classified as regimental tartans, clan tartans or their in-clan variations (e.g., ancient, weathered, dress or hunting versions). The remainder have been created to represent private individuals, non-extended families, cities and towns, organizations, clubs, corporations, or anyone else with the money and inclination to commission a custom pattern.

Suppose you are of Scottish ancestry and your clan is associated with several tartan patterns. Many clans have six or seven different patterns and color combinations, with designations such as standard, modern, ancient, weathered, dress, and hunting. Which one is the right one to use as fabric for a kilt? Any selection you make is fine; pick the one you find most appealing, and go with it.

Persons with no particular clan affiliation are not prohibited from wearing tartan, nor do you need anyone's permission to wear a certain clan tartan. It could be said that the most "traditional" practice in selection is choosing color and design over the pattern's name or association. Select any design and color scheme you like and will enjoy wearing.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

What if you're new to the world of kilts and clans, and just want to select a tartan and get a kilt made? It's not easy to find a favorite among thousands of pattern possibilities. You can find other helpful selection tips, plus information on tartans and fabric design in the article on How to Choose a Kilt. Be there or be . . . plaid.