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Wedding Dresses

Touch of tartan

Touch of Tartan: Weaving Scottish Heritage into Your Wedding Day

Weddings are a celebration of love, unity, and identity. For couples with Scottish roots, incorporating tartan into your wedding attire is a beautiful way to honour your heritage while adding a unique and personal touch to your special day. Whether you opt for a subtle accent or a bold statement, tartan brings tradition, elegance, and storytelling into your wedding celebration.

The Enduring Charm of a Touch of Tartan

Tartan is more than just a fabric—it’s a symbol of family, history, and pride. Each pattern, or “sett,” represents a clan, region, or story, making it deeply personal. High-quality wool tartan is not only visually striking but also incredibly durable, often lasting for generations. Its timeless appeal makes it a perfect choice for weddings, where tradition and modern style meet.

I’ve always been a fan of tartan. I love how versatile it is—whether worn casually or formally, it always makes a statement. And when you invest in pure wool tartan, you’re getting a piece that can be cherished for a lifetime.

 

Bridal Tartan Accents: Subtle Elegance with Deep Meaning

Brides can incorporate tartan in ways that are both elegant and meaningful. Here are a few ideas:

  • Tartan sashes or shawls draped over the wedding dress add a pop of colour and a nod to tradition.
  • Tartan shoes or bouquet ribbons offer a more understated yet stylish way to include your heritage.
  • Custom tartan panels or trims can be sewn into the dress itself for a bespoke look.

We’ve had the joy of designing several wedding dresses with tartan details—each one unique, each one telling a story. One of our favourite combinations is tartan layered with lace, which softens the bold lines of the pattern and creates a romantic, textured look. Some couples do a kind of exchange of tartan as part of the ceremony.

Tartan details on wedding dressbridal jumpsuit with tartan detailswedding dress with lace overlay on tartan

 

Mother of the Bride or Groom: Graceful Heritage

One of our most requested tartan outfits is for the mother of the bride or groom. Many mothers want to honour their family roots while maintaining a refined and elegant appearance. Tartan offers the perfect balance of sentiment and style.

Consider:

  • A tailored jacket, cape, or wrap in the family tartan.
  • Accessories like a tartan clutch, scarf, or brooch for a subtle yet heartfelt touch.
  • Tartan belts, buttons, or garment panels that add texture and colour without overwhelming the outfit.

We also offer custom-made handbags, belts, and shoes in your chosen tartan, allowing you to coordinate your look beautifully.

Bluebell dress for mother of the groom with tartanMother of the bride silk bodice with tartan details

Mother of the bride campbell tartantartan mother of the bride dress

 

 

Tartan for the Wedding Party: A Cohesive and Cultural Theme

Incorporating tartan into your wedding party’s attire helps create a cohesive look while celebrating your shared heritage. Here are some ideas:

  • Bridesmaids can wear tartan sashes, shawls, or even tartan skirts paired with neutral tops.
  • Groomsmen can wear tartan ties, vests, or pocket squares that match the wedding colours.
  • Page boys in tartan dungarees are absolutely adorable, and flower girls with tartan sashes or tartan-covered buttons add a sweet Scottish touch.

These thoughtful details not only enhance the visual harmony of your wedding but also allow your loved ones to participate in honouring your heritage.

Stewart tartan page boy and flowergirl

Page boy tartan

 

bridesmaid in Douglas tartan skirt

Tartan Accessories for the Groom: Classic with a Twist

For grooms, wearing tartan doesn’t have to mean going full kilt—unless you want to! There are many stylish ways to incorporate tartan:

  • Tartan trews offer a comfortable and classic alternative to kilts.
  • Tartan ties, bow ties, pocket squares, or cufflinks add a refined touch to a traditional suit.
  • Tartan waistcoats or jackets can make a bold yet elegant statement.

If you’re new to wearing tartan, start with accessories. They’re easy to wear and still carry the cultural significance that makes your outfit meaningful.

Personal Stories and Traditions: Make It Yours

Tartan is not just about how it looks—it’s about what it represents. Sharing the story behind your chosen tartan can add a deeply personal layer to your wedding. Consider including a short explanation in your wedding program or mentioning it during a toast.

For example, my own Anderson tartan jacket is one of my most treasured garments. It reflects both my Scottish and Danish roots—my mother’s family name is Andersen—and it always sparks conversation. Wearing it makes me feel connected to my family history and proud of where I come from.

You can use the tartan finder on this website to see what you can get in your family tartan

Beyond the Outfit: Tartan in Wedding Decor

Tartan doesn’t have to stop at clothing. You can extend the theme into your wedding decor:

  • Tartan table runners or napkins for a rustic yet elegant reception.
  • Tartan ribbons on wedding favours or invitations.
  • Tartan bunting or chair sashes to tie the theme together.

These small touches can create a warm, cohesive atmosphere that reflects your heritage throughout the entire celebration.

A Wedding Woven with Meaning

Adding a touch of tartan to your wedding is more than a fashion choice—it’s a celebration of identity, family, and love. Whether you choose a tartan sash, a custom-made dress, or accessories for your wedding party, these elements bring depth and authenticity to your day.

Let tartan tell your story. Let it honour your past, celebrate your present, and become part of the memories you’ll carry into the future. With garments and accessories that are both beautiful and meaningful, your wedding will be a true reflection of who you are—and where you come from.

Campbell tartan for mother of the bride

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