Which Kilt Outfit Goes Best With Buchanan Tartan?
Scottish outfits can never ever be completed without tartan, even if it is a traditional or modern outfit. All tartan patterns, regardless of their status as clan or universal ones, are worn in Scottish dress, and the most popular and ancient among them is the Buchanan tartan. Started as a clan tartan; now it is transformed as everyone’s pattern. In this article we are going to discuss which outfits go best with this particular Scottish design.
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ToggleWhat is the Buchanan Tartan

The Buchanan tartan traditionally belongs to the Clan Buchanan and has different colors explaining the nature and past of the tribe. Red, yellow, green, and black are the primary colors, while the number of patterns has increased greatly because of multiple reasons. The number of recognized variants is 11 and all of them are worn respectfully around the world. Its use has become practical in many accessories, but Buchanan Tartan Kilts remains the primary identity.
Kilt Outfit Options with the Buchanan Tartan

When we talk about the kilt outfit options where Buchanan tartans serve as the backbone, you must realize that every event has different needs. First, we will see their use in every event, and then we will find out the best kilt outfit option.
Formal Outfit Options
The first setting where you can wear the Buchanan tartan is the formal one, where dress code is important. For this event, the primary Scottish identity to pair with this particular pattern is a Prince Charlie jacket and its waistcoat. Before we mention the other accessories, it is essential to understand that all accessories must complement or coordinate with the colors of kilts.
| A white crisp wing collared shirt | Fly plaid and Brooch |
| Dress or Horse hair sporran | Belt and Buckle |
| Ghillie Brogues | Kilt hose and Flashes |
| Kilt Pin | A standard or Bow Tie |
| A Sgian-dubh (optional) |
Semi-Formal Outfit Ideas
Another outfit where the Buchanan tartan is important for completion is an Argyll Kilt Outfit. This dress is suitable for formal (day events) or semi-formal events such as Highland games, Burns Night Supper, and Hogmanay. As the name suggests, the primary parts of this silhouette are an Argyll Jacket and matching waistcoat. The rest of the accessories are:
| A semi dress sporran | White shirt |
| Semi-dress sporran | Belt and Buckle |
| Ghillie Brogues | Kilt socks and garter flashes |
Casual Event
Days are gone when the Buchanan tartan was specific to formal or semi-formal events; now its use is common in everyday wear as well. To complete a Scottish look, the important accessories to pair with this plaid pattern are tweed jackets. Wearing vests is compulsory with jackets; therefore, you can pair only a vest for a casual look. The rest of the accessories are lower compared to the previous events, and the essential ones are a day sporran, dress shoes, a white shirt, and a kilt pin.
Final Style Tips
No matter what type of event it is or what outfit you choose as the ideal one for you, the below-mentioned styling tips are important for a true Highlander look.
- The first thing is purchasing premium-quality tartan products that are only available at Scottish Kilt Co. Whether you want a plain kilt or a Khaki & Buchanan Tartan Hybrid Kilt, the quality should not lack anywhere.
- The rest of the accessories are important as well. So, make sure to invest in good quality so they may justify the Scottish looks and traditional style.
- If you like an edgy look and don’t know what else to pair, prioritize going simple because the Buchanan tartan itself is very attractive.
What Outfit Looks Ideal with the Buchanan Tartan?
This question is often asked by many people, and its answer depends on the event’s formality and the choice of the wearer. It is because the Buchanan pattern suits all events. If wearing the modern type, pair it with Argyll or tweed jackets. However, the Prince Charlie outfit is perfect for formal events, and the wearer should opt for an ancient pattern to stay consistent with the culture.
Complete Your Scottish Looks with Buchanan Tartan at The Utility Kilt
Many people remain concerned about the quality of products because they are unable to find reliable stores. Let us tell you that we, Scottish Kilt Co., are always ready to serve them in the form of quality and affordability. Not only this, we have kilts for everyone, whether they need a Women’s Mini Buchanan Tartan Kilt or a Children’s Buchanan Tartan Kilt. Other than kilts, we also offer them with self-customized Buchanan Tartan Caps.
FAQs and Their Answers
Is Buchanan tartan considered appropriate for weddings?
Yes, the Buchanan tartan is perfect for weddings, as it is one of the most widely adopted patterns worn in all of Scotland.
What season is best for wearing a Buchanan tartan kilt?
Depending on its primary colors, such as forest green, yellow, and red, this pattern sounds suitable for autumn. Moreover, adjusting the accessories properly and choosing the right weight of fabric makes them suitable for all weathers.
Are there different types of Buchanan tartan?
Yes, Buchanan tartans have 11 different types. Some of them are widely worn, while a few of them are also less popular. The ancient, modern, and weathered tones are the popular ones, while hunting and muted patterns are less famous comparatively.
Can I wear a belt with a waistcoat in a Buchanan kilt outfit?
Wearing a belt with the Buchanan tartan at casual or semi-formal events is valid. However, there is no need to add a belt with a Prince Charlie jacket and vest, as their cut and design usually hide the belt. For securing purposes tartan kilts already have fastening straps.
What color socks (hose) work best with Buchanan tartan?
When it comes to the color selection of kilt socks with the Buchanan tartan, the priority should be choosing a shade that complements the pattern. An expert idea is to choose the plain color, so there may not be the chance of pattern clashing.




