For those who keep asking me about tartans, here's a brief description of the tartans and their "wearability".

Clan Tartans are for use by anyone that has a connection with the Clan name by family, or by heritage. Remember that "ancient" has NOTHING to do with the time of the tartan, and has EVERYTHING to do with the lighter or muted color of the material.

Hunting Tartans were developed to hide the tartan in the heather or the brush. That's why so many are in the greens, browns and darker hues.

District Tartans actually preceded the Clan tartans. Contrary to what some kiltmakers have posted, the District Tartans are NOT an Irish thing. To this day many Scots without Clan affiliations will wear the district tartans.

Dress Tartans were the tartans for the ladies in the Clans. The preference for "lighter colors" made them primarily a white background.

Mourning Tartans were generally black and white and worn for that very purpose.

Breug Tartans are not listed and do not have any affilitation. Now called "generic", they're worn by anyone.

Chief's Tartans were the personal tartans of the Chiefs. DO NOT wear these unless you're one, or a member of the immediate family.

Royal Tartans are for use by the Royal families. Out of pure respect for the tradition and standing, NO royal tartan should be worn outside of the Royal Family. Having the same name is not grounds for inclusion.

Military Tartans are for military use only. Again, it's a matter of respect for the position and the duty. As explained to me, wearing a military tartan and not being in the service is much like a non-veteran parading in a full dress uniform. It is an insult.

The information above is NOT my personal opinion, but is straight from the Registers at Lyon Court. Consider that the traditions are still very much alive in some areas when you decided on your kilt. For instance, a guy in a "dress tartan" or a civilian in a "military tartan" might draw scorn in some places.