Quote Originally Posted by fluter View Post
I second the observations of Jock Scot and plaid preacher.

If the top band is tartan, it should match the apron. Since the pleats are tapered at the waist (usually), it will not match the back and underapron. If waist and hip sizes are the same, it might nearly match all the way 'round. That's an unusual measurement, but not unheard of. However if the kiltmaker allowed a slight flare in the rise (the bit above the waist), then it will diverge. That's done to keep the kilt's waist at the wearer's waist.

The buckle tabs are typically made from the leftover bits of the tartan, and matched to the pattern beneath. Usually they are short enough to be covered by the strap when the kilt is worn, so it's not critical---just esthetically pleasing. I had to make new one for a kilt I've been wearing 12 years, and made a temporary one from a non-matching broadcloth scrap. This works, but I'll replace it with a color that's in the tartan. I did not make this kilt, so it's unlikely that I'll find a matching tartan scrap; but again, that won't bother me since it's not seen.

Pardon the pedantry, but I'm at Kilt Kamp and those details surround me!
enjoy kilt camp, and thank you for taking the time to reply.