Scotland is home to almost 140 clans with different histories and areas of origin. While talking about the most conventional ones, we find Buchanans living in Loch Lomond in the 12th century. The clan is the historical one and its tartan was designated during the 19th century. In recent times, it is now very popular among both Scots and non-Scots and used in making many Scottish outfit accessories. This article is meant to describe accessories made with the Buchanan tartan and how to match them with kilt outfits.
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ToggleWhat Is the Buchanan Tartan?

Before we discuss the Buchanan tartan accessories and their styling tips, first let us see what this tartan is. It is a tartan pattern, specific to the Clan Buchanan, having an asymmetrical design and bold and bright patterns.
The primary shades are yellow, red, green, and blue, showing the clan’s association with the country and the nature of members. It has several sub-patterns, including ancient, modern, hunting, and more. As the name represents, ancient is the conventional one and speaks to how it helped in preserving Clan Buchanan’s legacy.
Matching Buchanan Tartan Accessories
Many people do not have knowledge about complete outfits and they only know about men’s kilts considering them to be the only part of dress. In reality, the Buchanan tartan kilt is only a single item, and the pattern is used in making many other accessories as well.
Buchanan Tartan Sporrans
Sporrans are the key part of Scottish dress, which are made with leather. It traditionally does not involve any fabric in its construction, but modernism adds a piece of tartan on their front for cultural admiration. Worn in both formal and casual settings, make sure the pattern complements the kilt and other accessories.
Buchanan Tartan Ties
The next accessory is neckwear. Scots wear them formally and in semi-formal settings. They exist in two variations: standard tie and bow tie. When styling or matching is a concern, make sure neckwear has the same patterns as that of the kilt to maintain the outline of silhouette.
Buchanan Tartan Fly Plaids or Sashes
Scottish formal outfits are only complete with fly plaids and sashes. The plaid refers to a piece of fabric for men that they drape over the shoulder. A sash, on the other hand, is different in shape and belongs to the other gender. When talking about their styling tips, wearing the kilts and fly plaid with the same patterns is necessary to complete the look.
Buchanan Tartan Waistcoats
The Buchanan tartan vest may be a new thing for many people, as waistcoats are often made to match kilt jackets. Both of them usually have the same colours and fabric. Tartan vests are often worn at different events with kilts and tartan trousers. If the wearer does not want both things in tartan, he can wear plain legwear with a solid or an earthy tone.
Buchanan Tartan Hats and Caps
Scottish Buchanan tartan hats are also common to wear with kilts. These caps are versatile and can be worn with other patterns than kilts, but this approach is not traditional. However, if a person still wants to wear a Buchanan tartan cap with any other tartan, make sure that the colours complement and do not clash with each other. One more thing, hats are not allowed indoors.
Tips for Choosing the Right Buchanan Tartan Accessories
Now that you are familiar with different Buchanan tartan accessories used in Scottish outfits and tips to style or match them. The next is knowing the tips to choose the right accessories.
- All tartan accessories should match the kilt jackets. Prince Charlie jackets are formal ones, which means the ancient tartan patterns will be the ideal choices.
- Do not overlook the formality of the occasion. Choose formal accessories at ceremonial settings, while modern events allow for versatility in patterns.
- If personalising your outfit, do not forget to add a flair of tradition, as Buchanan tartan is the symbol of heritage and pride.
- At semi-formal or modern settings, where matching the patterns is not necessary, they should at least complement each other.
The Role of Buchanan Tartan in Scottish Events

Tartan is the key part of any Scottish event, whether it is a wedding ceremony or the Burns Night Supper. Regarding the role of the Buchanan tartan, the possibility to witness it in different forms such as kilts, vests, and caps remains higher. Not only Scots and clan members, but those who do not have Scottish ancestry, also prefer wearing this particular pattern because of its status as a universal one.
Where to Find Buchanan Tartan Accessories
People often remain uncertain when choosing a reliable store to buy kilt accessories. Their confusion is valid, as hundreds of stores are offering online and in-person services. If the same problem bothers you, visit Irish Kilt Shop. It is an online store excelling in customising every kilt accessory using premium-quality fabric.
FAQs About Matching Buchanan Tartan Accessories
Are there seasonal trends for Buchanan tartan accessories?
Yes, there are some seasonal trends for Buchanan tartan accessories. The weight of fabric and versatility in colours play a vital role when styling them.
Can Buchanan tartan accessories be worn with kilts of other tartans?
Can Buchanan tartan accessories be worn to weddings and formal events outside Scotland?
Tartan kilts, regardless of their pattern, are worn outside Scotland. When the concern is wedding events, Buchanan tartan is one of the most worn patterns by Scots and non-Scots.



