Looking at it from a different perspective...
Much of this conversation seems to focus on how plaid fabrics, in earth tones were used/became popular because they were good camouflage for hunting or military purposes, not being seen by deer or the British or other clans. Having worn camo for both occupation and avocation I think that we are looking at it from the wrong perspective. I seriously doubt that people would purposely pick dull colors for their daily wear. The fact that some of the color palates found in tartans were also good for camouflage is coincidental, not intentional. They would use the plaids that were brown/gray/green/blue when they needed to be less conspicuous in the field and wear something else when it wasn't needed.
Of course, for those who could not afford multiple sets of clothing they may have picked earth tones, in plaids for solid colored fabric, because they may have been less expensive or showed dirt and wear less than brighter colors.
Larry
The hielan' man he wears the kilt, even when it's snowin';
He kens na where the wind comes frae, But he kens fine where its goin'.
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