"Rules" for wearing family tartan

[Lallans]

My family name (up through the male line) originates from Northern England - right along the border of Scotland. As far as I can tell, there is no tartan associated with the name. However, throughout my family tree, there are a few scottish families/clans I am related to, though not through the direct male line.

Is there any rule (of thumb, I guess) prohibiting me from wearing any tartans that I may be related to, though not directly (i.e. blood relation)?

Cheers!

Bringing it back again, if you are from a Border family or clan, you should consider the Northumberland Tartan, aka many things including The Border Check and The Shepherd's Plaid (sorry purists!). As you will see, it's a basic black and white design, or variations with similar colours. Its authenticity has always stuck in my mind because Sir Walter Scott, who was ultimately reponsible for most of the Scottish dress codes we practice now, once said it was the true lowland tartan and also the most ancient tartan still in existence. And you could wear it proudly and confidentally, snobbishly even, if so inclined.