Colors of the Pride of Scotland Tartan: What Do They Symbolize?
Tartan is a Scottish identity, having thousands of variations. They are classified in two primary categories: clan and universal patterns. Wait, there is a pattern that is neither a clan nor a universal pattern but represents the country. It is the Pride of Scotland tartan, which was designed to portray the country instead of a tribe or a single region.
This guide will explore different colors used in it and what they symbolize. Further, it will describe who can wear Pride of Scotland tartan, styling tips, and top accessories made with it. So, let’s begin our discussion with understanding the shades used in it.
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ToggleThe Pride of Scotland Tartan Pattern and Its Colors

Colors are of great importance in tartan patterns, as they narrate the country, heritage, and nature of the clan. That’s why they are chosen very carefully. Following the same, Scott Millson at McCalls of Aberdeen chose the colors that truly reflect the country, despite any tribe.
Majestic Purple
Scotland is known to produce many well-known figures who remained vital in shaping Scottish history. Purple, as a core shade in the Pride of Scotland tartan, represents nobility, royalty, and luxury to admire their heroes. Moreover, it also represents the “splendor of hills and glens” in this pattern. In short, purple assembles different parts of the country.
Bold Blue
Another shade covering most of the design’s part is blue, which also is dual purpose. First, it signifies the Blue Saltire, the national flag of Scotland. Secondly, the country is home to almost 790 islands, which means the existence of water. Blue, at the same time, also symbolizes coasts/waters.
Lush Green
Do you know who were the first ones to wear kilts in Scotland? They were Scottish Highlanders. Highland is a forested, hilly part of Scotland and neighboring countries, describing the existence of greenery and different landscapes. The green in the Pride of Scotland tartan signifies the country’s beauty and these sceneries. Moreover, it has additional cultural importance as it is also connected with Celts, who significantly influenced Scottish culture.
Crisp White & Timeless Black
In the Pride of Scotland tartan, white represents peace, unity, and inclusivity, reflecting Scotland’s welcoming spirit. Black, on the other hand, is a sign of strength, resilience, and ability to overcome the challenges. They collectively represent solidarity, pride, and Scotland’s lasting identity, admiring its rich history and looking toward the future with hope and ambition.
Who Can Wear the Pride of Scotland Tartan?
It is commonly asked who can wear tartan and who cannot. The answer is simple: tartan is for everyone regardless of their country of origin and ancestry. Following the same criteria, all can wear Pride of Scotland tartan, especially those who admire the culture of Scotland. No matter whether the wearer is a tourist, Scottish descendant, or even has no specific clan association, they can wear it.
How to Style or Wear the Pride of Scotland Tartan
Pride of Scotland tartan is a highly versatile pattern that suits both formal and casual settings. However, the important factor is wearing it respectfully with appropriate accessories according to the event.
Traditional Ways
Wearing Pride of Scotland tartan traditionally means completing your look by pairing all accessoriesof outfits. These attachments are given below:
| Prince Charlie Jacket & Vest | Fly Plaid and Brooch | Shirts and Neckwear |
| Dress Sporran | Kilt Pin | Ghillie Brogues |
| Kilt Socks and Flashes | Leather Belt | Buckle with Traditional Sign |
Contemporary Ways
Now that you are familiar with styling tips for Pride of Scotland tartan in formal settings, let’s now explore how to dress it up casually. A kilt featuring this distinctive tartan pattern is an essential accessory, complemented by the other accessories listed below.
| Kilt Shirt | Dress Shoes in Black |
| Plain Kilt Socks | A Kilt Pin |
| A Day Sporran | Kilt Fahses (optional) |
Top Pride of Scotland Tartan Accessories

Many people who are not fully aware of the traditional Scottish dress assume that this particular Scottish fabric is only used in making a href=”https://theutilitykilt.com/tartan-kilt-men”>tartan kilts. They should know that tartans, including Pride of Scotland patterns, are also used in making the following products.




