Saffron Kilt vs. Tartan Kilt: What’s the Difference?
Scots and Irish people have their own traditional dresses like all other countries. In both countries kilts are the most prominent parts of their outfits. A majority assumes only Scots as kilt-wearers, but this clothing is also a popular choice in Ireland and many other countries. Both countries have their specific tartan patterns. In this article, we will highlight the differences between saffron (national Irish kilt pattern) and tartan kilts. Moreover, we will also highlight how to choose the right one from them. So, let us begin our discussion.
Saffron vs. Tartan Kilts
The tartan kilts of both countries look the same from a distance, and even those who are new to the kilts may fail in identifying their visual differences. In fact, the reality is something else, and kilts there have some visual and hidden (historical and meaning) differences, and our discussion ahead is meant to clarify them all.
Irish heritage vs. Scottish heritage
Saffron Kilts: The first thing that we should start the differences section with is the heritage connection. Even the saffron kilt is worn in Scotland, but it is traditionally connected to Irish heritage. That’s why spotting it at Irish festivals regardless of the boundaries is more common.
Tartan Kilts: If we talk about tartan kilts, they have a strong connection with Scottish culture. The patterns of men’s kilts in Scottish kilts are conveyors of meaningful connections, including family, clan, and regions.
Fabric and Material
Saffron Kilts: Many people may not be aware of the fact that both variations are made with different fabrics and materials. A solid-dyed fabric is used in constructing saffron kilts, and the material is lighter in weight comparatively. However, the selection of fabric heavily relies on your requirements and personal choices.
Tartan Kilts: The wool or wool-blend fabrics are primarily the focusing fabrics to make Scottish kilts. The material is a bit heavier than saffron kilts with the aim of giving the kilt a formal and traditional appearance. Some modern versions may also use lighter or blended fabrics, but formal kilts are made with heavier wool for true Highland flair.
Color and Design
Saffron Kilts: Where will you start spotting the differences between two things? Undoubtedly, it will be the appearance. The same rule applies here, and saffron kilts feature a single, bold color that relates to yellow or golden.
Tartan Kilts: When we see tartan kilts from the same perspective, they are defined only by their patterns. Scottish kilts have crisscross designs of multiple colors, creating a distinctive look and offering them unique looks. These patterns are not a stylish design but hide unique stories about the past of clans.
Traditional and Modern Usage
Saffron Kilts: When it comes to the traditional and modern usage of saffron kilts, we see Irish people wearing them at formal settings, as their kilts are not everyday wear.
Tartan Kilts: Regarding the tartan kilts, they are pretty different from Irish kilts, as they have many variants and suit every kind of setting. No matter whether it is a traditional celebration like the Highland games or a modern get-together, wearing or spotting tartan kilts is a common approach.
Styling and Accessories
Saffron kilts: Styling techniques and accessories to pair also announce a level of dissimilarities between saffron and tartan kilts. Saffron kilts are simple, and it is a possible reason to be styled simply, paired with plain shirts, jackets, or traditional Irish accessories.
Tartan Kilts: Tartan kilts are different in this scenario, and they have a full set of accessories, including sporrans, jackets, hose, and flashes to make a complete kilt outfit. These attachments have been worn traditionally, and all have specific meaning. However, the number of accessories may be different in several settings.
Saffron vs. Tartan Kilts: Comparison Table
| Features | Saffron Kilt | Tartan Kilts |
| Heritage & Cultural Origin | Linked to Irish cultural heritage | Strongly tied to Scottish heritage |
| Fabric & Material | Solid saffron yellow or gold | Multiple colors in tartan patterns |
| Color and Design | Plain fabric without any patterns | Crisscross tartan patterned design |
| Symbol and Meaning | Lightweight solid-dyed material | Heavier wool or wool blends |
| Traditional & Modern Usage | Represents Irish identity and pride | Shows clan, family, and region |
| Styling & Accessories | Styled simply with fewer accessories | Worn with traditional full accessories |
Choosing Between Saffron and Tartan Kilts
The discussion about “saffron vs. tartan kilts” must have clarified many things and made it easier to choose one between them. Many things, including the event to wear a kilt, your personal preferences, and others, collectively impact your decision. Here are some points to consider when making a choice.
- First of all, you must know the reasons to wear a kilt. If cultural symbolism and a simple, bold look are the primary reasons regardless of boundaries, a saffron kilt is a strong choice.
- If you prefer lightweight fabric offering enhanced comfort, opt for a saffron kilt. On the other hand, tartan kilts can be a little bulkier or heavier, but they are also good options for long-day wearing.
- A tartan kilt can be more appropriate if you’re drawn to tradition, heritage, and significant patterns. Every pattern is significant historically.
- If you attend formal occasions like weddings or ceremonies where traditional style is valued, choose a tartan kilt.
- You must know how often or frequently you wear a kilt. While tartan kilts provide more style options, saffron kilts are good for straightforward, frequent use.
Explore The Utility Kilt to Get Saffron and Tartan Kilts
Now that you are familiar with the differences between saffron and tartan kilts and how to choose the right one from them, the next thing is to find a store to buy one. All kilt sellers claim to sell extraordinary kilts, but do they all fulfill your other requirements, including affordability, customization, 24/7 customer care, and more? Go nowhere and buy kilts at The Utility Kilt, offering everything that you expect from a reliable kilt-maker.
FAQs About Saffron and Tartan Kilts
Why is the saffron kilt traditionally solid in color?
Saffron is traditionally connected with Irish culture, and even the forces there used to wear this dye in their uniforms. That’s why they wear the same without bringing any change in the tone.
Can non-Irish people wear saffron kilts?
Yes, everyone is allowed to wear saffron kilts, but the only thing that Scots and Irish people expect from others is to wear them respectfully.
Do saffron kilts come in different shades of yellow?
Yes, modern people wear saffron shades in different tones from yellow to golden, but the traditional one is saffron that is common to spot at every formal event.
How do climate and weather affect the choice between saffron and tartan kilts?
Which kilt style is easier to maintain?
The simple fabric of saffron kilts makes them more convenient from a maintenance perspective. At the same time, tartan kilts have multiple shades from light to bright and can be difficult to maintain.
