Meaning of Tartan's ?

[thescot]

I can say with some confidence that the answer to the OP is, NO.

I think that, in general, it's safe to say that, early on, the colors were made from whatever form of dye was available, and that was somewhat regional, at least in the more rural areas and among the poorer of the folk. Obviously, those who were financially able had access to a wider range of dyes, commercially produced cloth, etc. I doubt that His Grace Archibald Campbell wore the same attire as Rob Roy.

Speaking of which, Rob Roy, the novel (which is not about Rob Roy), is instructive as to how different folks might have actually lived. When in Glasgow, Rob was dressed pretty much like everyone else; in the Highlands, he was kilted and attired in traditional highland garb, complete with a sporran that had a booby trap included. (I'd love one of those! )

I believe it is safe to assume that after 1800, it was the mills who saw an opportunity to help create a market for wool cloth by coming up with the various tartans and clan associations. I applaud their entrepeneurial spirit and accumin, and I am impressed with their creativity. However, buying into their advertising statements would be as silly as buying into current ad slogans.

And. . . I do believe that many "hunting" tartans were created by adding colors to the Governement tartan. I read that in So You're Going to Wear . . . to cite a source, and whether you like Scotty Thompson or his book, you have to agree that he did at least try to study tartans and demythologize many old beliefs.

And--a bit of modern heresy--if a new wearer of the kilt purchases his book and does as he advises, he will not go wrong. . . . Except for the white hose.