Universal tartans and heaviness of fabric

[Sylvain]

Three questions.

1) What are the universal tartans (even for non-Scots) and why are they universal?

2) By the way, what is the tartan of the kilt on the opening page?

3) Why is the fabric of men's kilts supposed to be thicker than the
fabric for women's skirts?

[cajunscot]

Universal tartans are tartans that may be worn by someone who may not have a "tie" to a clan or family tartan. The name may come from the original name of the Black Watch tartan, the Government or Universal sett. Besides the aforementioned Black Watch tartan, the Stewart Hunting, Caledonia, Jacobite, Flower of Scotland, Scottish National, Pride of Scotland, etc.

District Tartans, which represent a particular Scottish District, Irish or English county, Canadian province, American state or another nation (Argentina, for example) may also be worn by anyone living in one of those areas, or someone who may have a connection to one of them.

Remember, there is no "right" to wear a particular tartan, but one should be aware of the history of the tartan they choose.

That's the quickest answer I can give at 5.30 in the morning, but I'm sure others will have more to add to this thread (right Matt & Cyndi?)

Cheers,

Todd

[M. A. C. Newsome]

Todd listed a few of the more well known univeral tartans, but I'll also add that more and more are constantly being designed by the Highland Dress companies and tartan weavers. Many of the so-called fashion tartans are meant to use as generic setts. One recent one is the Highland Granite tartan launched this year by Lochcarron.
http://kiltmaker.blogspot.com/2005/0...ochcarron.html

But many companies have similarly intended tartans -- Pride of Scotland, Braveheart Warrior, Scottish Lion, etc. Anything you see with a name like that is most likely intended as a general use sett.

And to answer your other questions, the tartan on the front page here is a Gordon ancient. And men's kilts are heavier than women's skirts because they are supposed to look more sturdy and rigid, whereas women's skirts are to look more loose and flowing.

Aye,
Matt Newsome

[dana]

Hey Matt,

Is that picture in black and white or are those the colors for that tartan?
I kind of like the "non" color.

[Doc Hudson]

Hey Matt,

Is that picture in black and white or are those the colors for that tartan?
I kind of like the "non" color.

How can you call that a "non-color?"

It is a lovely black and grey, and quite handsome.

[GMan]

One thing I have noticed by reading other peoples comments on questions, is how much more I have to learn. That is why I like to hang out with everyone here.

[dana]

Hey Matt,

Is that picture in black and white or are those the colors for that tartan?
I kind of like the "non" color.

How can you call that a "non-color?"

It is a lovely black and grey, and quite handsome.

I agree it's really good looking. What I meant is it just doesn't have bright colors in it.

[M. A. C. Newsome]

Nope, that is a color picture. It is actually woven in several shades of grey. The darkest is a charcoal grey -- not a black. It really is a handsome tartan. I wouldn't mind a kilt in it, myself.

Anyone want me to make them one? :-)
Matt

[Barb T.]

The geologist in me approves of Lochcarron's new tartan!!

Barb

[chacbalam]

Actually M.A.C. I would be interested in kilt with the Highland Granite. Maybe something in a 4-5 yard casual? Send me a note when you have the chance.