Tartan is the family pride and regional identity of those who have Scottish ancestry. According to resources, more than 7,000 tartan patterns have been registered, and most of them are universal ones. However, some clan patterns are available in different variations, while a popular example is Royal Stewart Tartan. Reports claim it to be the most worn pattern in the form of kilts. It surprisingly has more than 30 versions. So, this question is “how do you choose the right Royal Stewart tartan variant?” This guide is meant to answer this question, but let us begin our article with understanding different variations of this tartan.
Understanding Stewart Tartan Variations
Before we discuss its different versions, let us clarify that every pattern has specific colours. Thus, all of these shades have a particular meaning and they convey messages about the past and nature of the wearers. Let’s explore different editions of royal family tartan.
Modern Royal Stewart: The modern royal Stewart tartan has vibrant but classical colours. Its background is deep red, while the complementary shades are black, yellow, blue, green, and white stripes. It is the most recognized pattern worldwide.
Ancient Royal Stewart: Many may not be familiar with the fact that the ancient variation is the original one worn by the British Monarch. The modern one is the replica of the ancient Royal Stewart tartan. Most of the shades are the same with a strong background in red.
Weathered Royal Stewart: It’s time to highlight Weathered Royal Stewart tartan, which is also a common choice of many. It usually has shades that look exposed to everything, and that’s why light brown, gray, and red (in smaller amounts) are major ones. The light colours do not have a specific meaning, but they represent the history and tradition of Scotland.
Muted Royal Stewart: As the name represents, muted Royal Stewart has soft and earthy tones such as green, blue, and brown, instead of rich vibrant colours. They actually fall between the sharp and light tones of this pattern. A set of muted tones creates a sense of quiet strength and understated elegance.
Hunting Stewart: Hunting Stewart tartan is also a prominent version of Royal tartan having green, blue, and black tones. All of these shades are representatives of Scottish landscapes. The beautiful combination makes this pattern perfect for embracing a classical look.
How to Choose the Right Stewart Tartan Variant
You must be aware of the most common variants of this particular pattern now. It is the time to explore some tips to choose the right Stewart variation, and many things altogether impact the decision. Ensure the occasion first, colour preferences, and then your family connection should be the priority.
Occasion-based Choice
The first thing always is to note the event’s formality and choose one accordingly. If the event is a modern one, such as a musical night or a dancing festival, select a pattern that has vibrant shades. At the same time, traditional occasions require something classical like muted stewart patterns.
Colour Preferences
colours are also of great importance when it comes to choosing the right Royal Stewart tartan pattern. It is important for shades to be according to the event’s theme. Similarly, it also enhances the looks if the dyes overall complement your kilt outfits. Matching or contrasting the shades mindfully is important to achieve a true Scottish look.
Style and Personality
Your style and personality also matter when it comes to choosing an ideal edition of royal stewart tartan. The role of the occasion’s theme is also important here, and tartan kilts are suitable for formal and semi-formal events. If you desire to adopt a modern look, opt for a contemporary outfit including multiple tartan products. In the case of traditional looks, choose a classical outfit with traditional components such as Prince Charlie Jackets and tartan plaids.
Seasonal Usage
People usually overlook weather conditions when choosing a perfect royal stewart tartan pattern, which is not a good idea. Shades of a kilt significantly impact the experience of wearing it in any weather. For summer, experts often recommend lighter shades like muted tones, as they do not absorb the heat. While vibrant shades like black and red perform well in winter, as they absorb the sunlight and keep the wearers warm.
Family/Clan Ties
Before choosing any variant of Royal Stewart Tartan, give a thought to your ancestry for a while. More than 400 Scottish clans today live in Scotland, and if you are one of them, make sure to wear your clan tartan. If you are not a Scot, you can go with any universal variants of Royal tartan. The most important thing is to wear them respectfully and keep them clean.
Who Can Wear Royal Stewart Tartan?
The question about the people who can wear Stewart tartan or who cannot is often asked. So, we find answering it essential. This pattern is traditionally associated with the British royal family. Queen Victoria was the first one to adopt this pattern as a royal. The pattern remained aligned to the Royal family for a longer duration, but now it is serving as a universal one.
People from every walk of life are allowed to wear it. Surprisingly, the use of Stewart tartan is not limited to the kilt only, but other tartan kilt accessories such as plaids, hoses, scarves, and neckties are made with it. Above all, this particular tartan is considered to be the most versatile pattern, and spotting it is common in all types of settings.
Where to Buy Authentic Royal Stewart Tartans
If you are looking to buy a Royal Stewart tartan kilt or something else made with the same fabric, we would suggest you visit our store “Utility Kilt UK” once. At our online store, we have a wide array of Royal Stewart tartan products made with premium-quality fabric. The availability of fabric is what everyone claims, but Utility Kilt UK dominates them all, as our products are affordable as well. Other than quality and cost-effectiveness, we can customise every tartan product for you. Even if a product you want is not available, we will manage it for you. The list of our Royal Stewart tartan products is given below; check and order what you want.
FAQs About Choosing The Right Stewart Tartan
How can I tell if a Stewart tartan is authentic?
To verify the authenticity of a Stewart tartan, focus on its colours and patterns. If a confusion still bothers, verify its registration information using The Scottish Register of Tartans.
Can Stewart tartans be used for home décor or accessories?
Stewart Tartan is the most versatile pattern, which does not limit itself to kilt outfits only. Instead, it is a regular part of home decor accessories such as clothing bags, cushions, bedsheets, wall-hanging products, and more.
Is there a difference between men's and women's Stewart tartan patterns?
No, the patterns of the Royal Stewart tartan remain the same for both genders. Therefore, the way of using it in the outfit can be varied for men and women.
What is the symbolism behind the colours used in Stewart tartans?
Are there digital tools or apps to visualize yourself in a Stewart tartan?
Yes, today’s digital and fast-paced world allows you to visualize yourself in this certain tartan. Many online apps, including PhotoStyleLab, PicsArt, and Canva.
