Modern vs Ancient?

**416 Rigby** · 17th January 14, 10:05 AM

Hello everyone

I'm a McKenzie, and when it comes time to get my first kilt, I always thought it would be in MacKenzie Modern. Looking at the various versions of the clan tartan, though, got me to wondering what is the protocol, if any, for the wearing of Ancient vs Modern versions of tartans. Is there a guidline or general view? Does anyone care, or is it simply up to the wearer? Is the Ancient version considered more casual? I quite like the MacKenzie Ancient.

Thanks in advance!

**TheOfficialBren** · 17th January 14, 10:14 AM

No protocol. Each is the same tartan woven in different shades. Rest assured that Ancient MacKenzie is the same as Modern MacKenzie, mate.

One thing to consider is that many of the so - called "ancient" colour palette days to no later than the early 1900s. The "modern" colour palette is actually older. They date to Victorian times.

Prior to the early 1800s very few tartans that we recognise today even existed!

**creagdhubh** · 17th January 14, 10:15 AM

No protocol at all, mate. It's simply a matter of personal preference and taste; the colour scheme you like the best. Have you seen the Mackenzie tartan, which is such a well-balanced and beautiful sett by the way, in the weathered/reproduction colours (see below)? Very handsome indeed. My great-grandmother's maiden name was Mackenzie, so I have a wee bit of Mackenzie blood in me!

Luceo non uro,

**David Thorpe** · 17th January 14, 10:15 AM

Wear whichever you like best. If you have concerns about acceptability, ask someone in your clan association.

**TheOfficialBren** · 17th January 14, 10:22 AM

Originally Posted by creagdhubh

No protocol at all, mate. It's a matter of personal preference and taste. The colour scheme you like the best. Have you seen the Mackenzie tartan, which is such a well-balanced and beautiful sett by the way, in the weathered/reproduction colours? Very handsome indeed.

To see this tartan in this colour scheme in action watch nearly any episode of "Monarch of the Glen." Series Regular character Golly MacKenzie (played by Alexander Morton) wore the Mackenzie Weathered tartan (just as Kyle has kindly posted). I am considering a weathered Robertson or weathered Shaw next go - around.

**Baker04** · 17th January 14, 11:14 AM

I have a MacRae weathered tartan kilt and have just ordered another kilt in MacRae Ancient which is the more common . I think both tartans are the same set just one with weathered colors and one Antique. I agree,order the tartan you like best. I like both mine and am looking forward to the Ancient.

**Grizzly** · 17th January 14, 11:21 AM

I love weathered colour schemes on kilts. I have a Cameron of Erracht weathered tartan kilt which IMHO is fantastic. The weathered Mckenzie is lovely too, I believe our own Alex (Cessnatowser) has one and very nice it is too.

**Grizzly** · 17th January 14, 11:23 AM

Oops sorry you said Ancient and I read Weathered, guess I haven't had enough sherry yet!

Pay attention Grizzly you doddery old buffoon!

**416 Rigby** · 17th January 14, 12:19 PM

Thanks, gents.
This is the one I like
ancient mackenzie tartan.jpg

This one is interesting as well. It's the MacKenzie 78th Highlanders from the 1820's evidently.
mackenzie tartan 78th highlanders.jpg

Cool stuff.

**416 Rigby** · 17th January 14, 12:47 PM

The weathered tartan with tweed jacket would, to my eye, make a great look for a day of sporting clays shooting with my vintage 1903 Parker double. Hmmm...maybe I should add that to my wish list, too.