Despite the lengthy and rich history of tartan, people sometimes confuse Scottish tartan with Irish. There are some notable differences between the two patterns, even though they are both identifiable, colorful, and serve as a national pride. Regardless of your preference for striking plaid designs or your interest in their origins, this piece will help you comprehend the distinctive qualities of Scottish and Irish tartan.
Irish Tartan vs. Scottish Tartan
Tartan in Scotland became famous in the 16th century while its origin worldwide is almost 3000 years old. In the past, Scottish kilts meant to represent clan or ancestry. In contrast, Irish tartan is more recent. Irish tartan designs became popular worldwide in the 19th century. When we talk about other differences, we note several dissimilarities.
Patterns and Designs
The first visual aspect that plays a role in confusing individuals is nothing other than the patterns and designs tartans have. Irish tartan kilts represent a region or county, while Scottish tartan reveals family. The number of designs and patterns according to primary entities increases their existence significantly and confuses people.
Irish Tartan
Irish tartans often feature simpler patterns, even though they are still plaid. They are equally vivid as their Scottish counterparts, but their designs do not have that much complication. In Ireland, tartan designs carry fewer lines and colors, giving them a simpler, more streamlined appearance.
Scottish Tartan
Scottish tartans have more details with different lines and colors used to produce a unique and complex design. Patterns symbolize certain clans which is why they become quite intricate. Yet a large number of Scottish families wear tartan kilts. Every family tartan has a distinct design that honors its history and culture.
Color Significance
Some people might need to know that the story of tartan is hidden in its patterns and colors. Every color a Scottish or Irish tartan carries has a specific meaning, representing something. Red in tartan represents bravery while black describes resilience. Colors in both tartans have different meanings as well.
Irish Tartan
Irish tartan, however, reflects the abundance of green hues seen in Irish tartans. Green from day one is prominent in tartan because of undulating hills, grassy surroundings, and a sense of patriotism. Other colors are also utilized but they frequently lack the complex meaning found in Scottish tartans.
Scottish Tartan
Regarding color, there is a significant distinction in how the colors are applied. Red, green, and blue are among the striking hues that are characteristic of Scottish tartans. Each color symbolizes the history of the family or clan. Yet, each of them has specific meanings. For instance, red is frequently associated with courage or power. On the other hand, green shade associates with the outdoors or the natural world.
Usage and Occasions
You might be knowing that Scottish tartan has become everyday wear while Irish tartan still is not a standard wearing. Scottish tartan is common to see in both formal and casual events. However, Irish tartan is part of formal occasions only.
Scottish Tartan
Tartan from Scotland has faced a miraculous change in its usage and dominates Irish tartan worldwide. Spotting Scottish tartan in formal events is common, especially when family relationships are involved. Some of these events are weddings, family gatherings, military ceremonies, and national celebrations such as Burns Night.
Irish Tartan
Irish tartan on the other hand is commonly seen at parades and festivals. You can see Irish tartans at events that are associated with Irish culture, such as St. Patrick’s Day. Like Scottish tartan, the chance of wearing or spotting Irish tartan at Highland Games, dancing events, and wedding ceremonies remains high.
One-stop-shop to Buy Tartan Kilts
Several online platforms are offering you both Irish and Scottish tartan in the form of kilts, their traditional attire. However, choosing the best platform makes your decision worthwhile. Some common things to see in stores are their reputation, quality, prices, return policies, and delivery time. Irish Kilt Shop is known to fulfill all of your requirements and have tartans associated with both countries.
