Quote Originally Posted by Grae View Post
A traditional tartan worn by people who did not belong to a Clan, especially in the borders / lowlands was the Shepherds Check. I am surprised this is not promoted as much as other universal and new designed tartans . It is also seen as Shepherds check, burns check (a variation) and Northumberland. Predominantly black and white but very traditional and authentic ( remember the Falkirk Tartan?).

I was reminded of this when reading of a fellow from Galloway who in his University days in the 1930's stated wore the Shepherd check kilt, even when he went to the highlands. I guess that was before the onset of new designs for all the districts (e.g. Galloway red and green both attractive and I think designed in the 1930's ). An added bonus is at the moment that check is now all the rage in fashion circles.
I can attest to this, as my girlfriend has a cousin-in-law, originally from The Borders (he was living in Newcastle when he emigrated to the US, and now lives in Arizona) who wears the Shepherd's tartan (and plaid) when he gets kilted up.