Which tartan to wear?

**davidg** · 31st October 11, 03:05 PM

Originally Posted by WBHenry

you mentioned there was an "official Scout tartan" which is NOT the same as the MacLaren tartan.

I've never actually seen anyone wear the Scout Tartan. I think it's restricted and used to only be available to special order from Scout Shops, which I don't think even exist any more, certainly nowhere near where I live. That's probably why nobody wears it and I'm fairly certain that even kiltmakers can't get hold of it, although I may be wrong, so it's not a realistic option. I have trade accounts with most of the mills and to the best of my knowledge they cannot supply me with any

**Chas** · 31st October 11, 03:14 PM

Originally Posted by davidg

I used to think the same but it's actually a world-wide thing. The UK Scout Association isn't too forthcoming with that information though

Being an honorary member of the clan does not exempt anyone from the uniform regulations. I was an Air Scout leader and because I wore the Air Scout uniform could not wear the kilt. The same would apply to Sea Scout Leaders as well.

In my opinion, you do NOT have the entitlement to wear the MacLaren tartan kilt. Wear what you want, David. But I think you are looking for an excuse to justify your decision.

Would you accept the excuses you are putting forward from one of the boys?

Regards

Chas

**davidg** · 31st October 11, 03:40 PM

Originally Posted by Chas

Would you accept the excuses you are putting forward from one of the boys?

I'm guessing your Scouts (or their leaders) are more disciplined in England than they are in my locale from what you've just said. I've served in two Scout Areas and in both areas we simply could not get leaders to wear full uniform at all. The male leaders invariably wore jeans and a shirt with very few of us wearing the rest of the kit. So, yes, I HAD to accept excuses from the Scouts themselves who simply followed the example of their leaders

Having said that, when I was running a troop we were the only troop wearing full uniform for miles around

I agree I think the MacLaren kilt probably is my preferred option, although I honestly haven't definately decided yet, but I don't think uniform is relevant as I will not be wearing uniform to a clan event and there never was a "uniform" element to wearing tartan as a Scout in any case, merely the opportunity to wear tartan of whatever sett. Nor is membership "honorary" but associate with full participation encouraged and there may be an expectation that I will wear it, as I would certainly be entitled to do by virtue of my membership (of the clan association, not of the Scouts). I may settle it by asking the society what they would prefer but I'm not sure yet

**Lyle1** · 31st October 11, 04:03 PM

Originally Posted by davidg

They become an associate member and are encouraged to wear the MacLaren tartan and take part in clan events. As an associate member I also get invited to the AGM and have a vote. T

To me, it seems that you are encouraged to wear the MacLaren tartan, but you are not required to do so. Do you really think that in Scotland it would be rude to wear your clan tartan to any event? Please say it isn't so! That said, it does sound as if you have options, and it is simply a matter of doing what you want to do. However, if you decide to buy a kilt in the MacLaren tartan, don't blame it on the MacLaren's; be honest about it, and buy it because you want to buy it.

**xman** · 31st October 11, 04:51 PM

Originally Posted by figheadair

Not sure the MacLaren could be described as having a red field. Two thin red stripes don't quite make it

You misheard me, Peter. I said 'MacLean' not 'MacLaren'.

**Mike S** · 31st October 11, 04:57 PM

Wear what you want to wear and do so proudly. Even the most militant among the tartan police world wide can't agree on their own ad hoc rules.

**Jon Lilley** · 31st October 11, 05:29 PM

Hi David,

I wish it were so about all the kilt wearers here in the US, but alas, it isn't. I was able to dodge a couple bullets (new kilts required by different bands), but ended up learning how to make them just to save a buck or two . . . OK, $200.00 to $300.00 a crack.

A proper kilt is an investment and a real joy to wear. So, go ahead and indulge yourself!!! In doing so, you'll be supporting the woolen mills, kiltmakers AND all the tradition surrounding it. Just have another look at the tartan to be sure you're aware of what the tartan looks like. And give your kiltmaker as much time as possible. Rush jobs don't always turn out quite as nicely. And, take a couple pictures on the day to share with us on how it turnes out. Curiosity abounds!

Slàinte,

Jon

**mookien** · 31st October 11, 06:15 PM

Unless you have to sacrifice some life necessity like food for your daughter or a bottle of single malt ...

Buy the kilt!

You'll never regret it.

Don't forget pics.

**davidlpope** · 31st October 11, 06:27 PM

MacKay

**Spartan Tartan** · 31st October 11, 07:24 PM

I might be late to this party, but I will offer my 2 cents anyway...

Bottom line: I'd wear my family or personal tartan (and I'm an American!!).

My understanding is that the MacLaren clan authorized the use of their tartan for wear by any scouter that did not have a tartan of their own. The hope and intent was that scouter could then call MacLaren their own.

On the other hand, I would certainly agree with the military unit/pipe band idea...IF your troop/pack/crew/what have you, endoresed the kilt as their official uniform locally. Or at the very least endorsed it as an official option. My Troop/Pack are a "waist up" troop. Meaning they specifically do NOT care what we wear below the waist...since we are not uniform below the waist, I'd save my money for another nice argyle Tweed jacket

Again, just my opinion. I am happy for you either way. In fact, I might someday take the whole kilt as a uniform option to the district...