I have been trying to recall whether I have ever actually been asked anything more than "What tartan is that?" or "Is that the XXXXX tartan?". I really don't think I have.

I am happy and confident enough to talk at length about my own clan tartans (Gunn, Ancient colours and Gunn, Weathered colours). The other eight tartans I wear with some regularity, including the Canadian 'Maple Leaf', I chose because I was very attracted to them, but I have mugged up on their derivations and am able to converse reasonably intelligently about them - but no-one has ever shown any interest other than, as I say, to confirm the name of the tartan confronting them.

The kilt I wear most which prompts the question, is my plain black barathea kilt. I am often asked, "What tartan is that?" when out and about in it. On one occasion, when I was wearing it whilst on duty with The National Trust at Petworth House, an elderly male visitor asked if it was Black Watch! I responded by telling him that Black Watch is dark blue and green with black, not just black. Then I couldn't resist it: "This plain black kilt is Mac-abre", I told him. He was perfectly satisfied with that and went on his way, a seemingly happy man!

Since then, I have used the explanation several times - but I choose my victims carefully