Generally speaking in Scotland, as you were asking, if your surname is for example, "MacOnion" then you wear that tartan. Other than that you wear ONE tartan that you or your ancestors have chosen and that is it. It would most certainly raise an eyebrow if you as a "MacOnion" were wearing a "MacCarrot" tartan without a very good reason, and there are a few of those. If you are a member of a Pipe Band is one, your regimental tartan is another.
As we are a relatively small and close knit community, particularly in the Highlands, any variation from the tartan you normally wear is noticed. I might add that moving from "ancient" colours to say "weathered" is also noticed,noted,but never commented on by anyone other than the closest of closest family. It would just be assumed that you had more money than sense.Just so you know, ostentation, giving a perception of wealth is best avoided in the Highlands and even wealthy Dukes, for example, are sensitive to this and the "bells and whistles" are kept for very special occasions.
As many of you have noticed, generally speaking we in Scotland do not have many kilts(each) and those we have are rarely of a different tartan.We really don't go in for all this deep and meaningful ancestry bit too justify which tartan we wear and no one will want and sit and listen to a two hour lecture on justifying your choice of tartan.We wear the tartan we do and that is readily accepted by all and we do not expect to change from it.Why should we? People do, incomers invariably, and I am afraid they get stuck with the poser label.
Last edited by Jock Scot; 17th March 11 at 02:54 AM.
" Rules are for the guidance of wise men and the adherence of idle minds and minor tyrants". Field Marshal Lord Slim.
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