Picking a Tartan

[sydnie7]

In the narrowing-down process, be sure to order swatches from the actual weaver(s) you intend to use (your intended kiltmaker can assist). There are many tales on this forum of variations among the finished fabric from mill to mill.

[Tartan Hiker]

And since, based on the experience of many of the folks on this site this will only be your first of several kilts (), RELAX! You'll soon have a stable full of kilts in all manner of hues to accommodate any mood or situation.

Welcome to the addiction.

[seanachie]

Piggybacking on what Sydnie mentioned...have you selected a kilt maker?
If so then, giving them information like "I am looking for a weathered tartan with an earthy tone", or "I much prefer pleating to the strip vs sett and am interested in these tartans" etc etc. They may give you some suggestions and then if you want order the swatches. There is also a whole section on this forum dedicated to tartans and many knowledeable folks have contributed. I often go back through this area and read through the posts.
Tartan Ferret also is a good tool to play with if you are looking for tartans and are looking for various colors. One last comment...I like a well made kilt, I like to wear the kilt smartly but I don't get too caught up in what you said about do I look good in this tartan. If you like it, wear it well and don't give too much worry to that. Some people are concerned that they draw attention or odd looks from people for wearing the kilt. I, on the other hand relish not being a lemming, one of the herd. I prefer the path less traveled.