Two of our members showing off their tartan. The lady (Mrs. Nancy Miller) is wearing a traditional Erasaid, and the gentleman (Mr. C.G. Miller) is wearing a kilt with flashes. The tartan is Ramsay (Red Ancient).

Kilts & Tartan

By: Haley N. Zelms | November 3rd, 2023

An iconic symbol of culture, clan, and rebellion – the kilt: call it a skirt, and you'll be KILT!

While anyone can wear a tartan or kilt and the origin date may be debated, it important to understand the cultural impact of such a garment. Your tartan is often associated with a clan surname or clan sept, and there can be many different colors ways depending on your clan and tartan type (ancient, modern, hunting, etc). Generally, the pattern is represented by last name. However, there are cases where some Scottish last names fall under District tartans instead. Sometimes both! Sometimes in other cases, none. The most common ways to wear tartan include: kilts, Earasaids (pronounced Ara-sayed), and sashes. Of course, this isn’t a complete list, nor is it not the only way to wear a tartan!

You will find that the tartan and kilts are deeply ingrained into Scottish culture. As with the language, this was also sought to be eradicated under colonial rule after the failed Jacobite Rebellion that ended in 1746 with the bloody Battle of Culloden. This ban on kilts and tartan would be enacted into law with the Dress Act of 1746. The Act of Proscription, additional laws aimed at stripping all aspects of Highland culture, and the Highland Clearances would follow suit.

Some Irish surnames may have a tartan, however, the pattern is often associated by county rather than surname, and is not as common in fashion, culture, and sale as they are in Scotland. There are also tartan patterns for each of the U.S. Military branches, law enforcement, and more! They even make utility style kilts for more “rugged activities”. There are so many patterns and styles to choose from online!

Want to learn more? We will occasionally have a presentation about kilts and tartans as a topic for a General Meeting. Be sure to keep an eye out on that schedule! However, in the mean time you can find some handy resources below. We also know some local Scottish/Celtic shops in the Hampton Roads/Tidewater, Virginia area that can help you purchase a tartan or kilt. Feel free to ask us!

Additional Resources & References:

Looking to learn about the clans themselves and not just the tartan? Hop on over to our Clans tab! (COMING SOON)