Traditional vs Modern Men’s Tartan: What’s the Difference?

Tartan is not just a plaid because when we are talking about traditional versus modern Men’s Scottish Tartan Kilts, the main distinction divides into two different categories which are the color of the fabric and how it is styled as an outfit. We know that there are many people who get confused about what the major difference is between the traditional and modern men’s tartan and that is exactly what we are going to discuss.

Let’s get into the details and help you understand what the differences are, so if you’re planning on styling and purchasing you can do that easily.

The Fabric: Colorways and Dyes

When you’re buying a kilt or a tartan suit there are three major differences that you have to pay attention to, which are modern, ancient, or weathered. They have some major differences that you have to know to understand which one you want to purchase. This does not refer to the design but it is more about the color palette which are produced by different methods of dyes.

Modern Kilts

The first type is the modern kilt which comes in bold and dark colors. It comes in deep navy and forest green colors. These are created using chemical dyes and produce sharp and intense colors.

Ancient Kilts

The second one is the ancient kilts which come in lighter and softer tones. It features colors like sky blue, grass green, and orange-toned ones. These are designed to mimic the natural dyes and colors that were used in the Highlands before the 19th century. 

Weathered Kilts

The third one is the weathered kilt that comes in earthy and faded tones. These are designed to look like the fabric that is exposed to wind and sun in the Highlands.

The Styling: Traditional vs. Contemporary Outfits

If we leave the color behind, another major difference that comes is how men style that tartan. It goes from formal Highland to street-ready fashion that you can opt for depending on what you’re looking for.

The Traditional Kilt Outfit

Traditional Highland is extremely structured and is rooted deeply in history. It is typically reserved for formal events like when you’re going to attend weddings, graduations, or dinners.

• In the traditional kilt, there is a heavy 8 yard kilt, pleated and it sits high on the waist right above your navel.
• A formal prince Charlie jacket is embroidered with silver buttons and it is worn with a waistcoat or you can also opt for a slightly more versatile Argyll Jacket.
• If you want to strictly adhere to the tradition you have to include a sporran which is also known as a pouch, kilt hose and sgian-dubh. 

When you complete these accessories and you wear them alongside the kilt, it automatically becomes a traditional one.

The Modern Tartan Outfit

The second type is the modern tartan and its styling adapts the historical patterns into contemporary everyday outfits. It completely comes out of the rules of traditional Highland dress because it has its own uniqueness and you style it differently.

• The modern tartan outfit is fitted and it comes with contemporary cuts rather than a kilt. The tartan is integrated into a suit and has blazer jackets and slim cut trousers.
• The tartan is styled in a casual way with leather jacket boots and simple white T-shirts. It looks decent and elegant, which is why most people prefer styling it like this.
• If you’re somebody who wants to wear traditional kilts but wants to give it a modern twist then you should know that the utility kilts are made of heavy cotton canvas or leather alongside cargo pockets that are worn lower.

One thing that you have to understand when you’re opting for Tartan is that there is no incorrect choice that you can make. If you’re going to attend any formal event a traditional outfit in modern or an ancient color is respected a lot. You can also opt for modern tartan because they provide a timeless and sophisticated look if you want to have a sharp look.

Conclusive Remarks

Whenever you have to wear a tartan you do not have to think about modern or traditional kilts because if you like something you can style it according to your own choice. But at the same time if you want to be respectful towards the heritage and culture you should know the differences so you can style it accordingly if you’re going to any specific event.

If you are looking for a platform that can provide you with modern Men’s Scottish Tartan Kilts and you do not know any search place, then you must get in touch with us at Kiltsstore.