Royal Stewart Tartan

Royal Stewart Clan Origins & History

Scottish Attire presents the Stewart Tartan, a tribute to Scotland’s royal family whose legacy shaped its monarchy, culture, and global heritage. You’ll be connected to centuries of Scottish leadership, honor, and identity when you wear this tartan.

The Legendary Origins of the Stewart Clan

Stewarts trace their roots to Brittany, France, where they were stewards to the counts of Dol. The Norman Conquest brought them to England, and they later settled in Scotland in the 12th century. By appointing Walter fitz Alan as High Steward of Scotland, King David I established the lineage. Steward was the surname adopted by his descendants, derived from their position in the government.

Marjorie Bruce, a granddaughter of King Robert the Bruce, married Walter’s descendant in 1315, and their son became King Robert II of Scotland, the first Stewart King. Over the course of three centuries, the Royal House of Stewart ruled Scotland and later the united crowns of Scotland and England.

Where the Stewart Name Comes From

As a surname, Stewart is derived from the Old English word “stigweard”, which refers to a steward or hall guardian. A Gaelic version is Stiùbhart. The variation “Stuart” became popular when Mary, Queen of Scots adopted it in France due to the lack of the letter ‘W’ in the French alphabet. Today, both spellings are used interchangeably.

A Powerful Royal Clan

King Stewart led the Stewart clan, but he was also a monarch. Throughout British history, the family produced kings and queens who shaped the country. James VI of Scotland became James I of England in 1603, uniting the two crowns. Queen Anne’s dynasty lasted until her death in 1714.

As a result, the clan became divided into powerful lines like Appin, Atholl, Balquhidder, and Bute, each owning significant lands and castles in Scotland. International diplomacy, politics, and military leadership all benefited from their influence.

Castles & Strongholds

In Scotland, the Stewarts controlled some of the most iconic castles:

• Edinburgh Castle – once held by the Stewarts as a royal residence.

• Stirling Castle – another key royal seat.

• Castle Stalker – home of the Stewarts of Appin.

• Doune Castle – built by Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany.

• Castle Stuart – gifted to James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray, by Mary, Queen of Scots.

• Linlithgow Palace & Falkland Palace – royal Stewart properties rich in Renaissance architecture.

Stewart Tartan Colors & Pattern

In addition to its worldwide recognition, the Royal Stewart Tartan has the following features:

• Red base – symbolizing royal heritage and courage.

• Dark blue – representing loyalty and Scotland’s landscapes.

• Yellow and white lines – adding vibrancy and harmony.

Queen Elizabeth II wore this tartan as her personal tartan and it is often worn by royal pipers. Tartans can now be worn by anyone who wishes to do so, and are now considered universal.

Stewart Tartan Variations

Authentic Stewart tartan options include:

• Stewart Ancient – softer tones resembling natural dyes.

• Stewart Modern – bold and vibrant colors for formal presentation.

• Stewart Hunting – deep green and blue for a muted look, used historically in military and outdoor wear.

• Stewart Dress – predominantly white, designed for ceremonial and women’s attire.

• Stewart Black – a dignified, reversed palette.

Depending on your preference, you can showcase your heritage in each version.

Associated Regiments

Stewart tartans have been proudly worn by military regiments throughout history, both in Scotland and across the British Empire. Tartans play a significant role not only in family and fashion, but also in national service and tradition.

Notable Regiments Linked to Stewart Tartans:

• Royal Scots (The Royal Regiment): One of the oldest regiments in the British Army, members wore Hunting Stewart tartan trousers as part of their dress uniform.

• Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (Pipers): Their pipers often appeared in the Royal Stewart or Hunting Stewart kilts during ceremonial events.

• Scots Guards (Pipers): A prestigious regiment whose pipers are known for wearing Royal Stewart tartan during formal parades.

• 15th (Scottish) Battalion, Parachute Regiment: Identified by a Hunting Stewart patch worn beneath their beret badge.

• Queen’s Own Corps of Guides & Black Watch Pipers: Known to adopt variations of Stewart tartan in band or ceremonial attire.

• Loretto School OTC, Calcutta Scottish, and Shanghai Volunteer Corps: These overseas or auxiliary units used Stewart tartan as a mark of Scottish identity and esprit de corps.

These connections reflect the tartan’s military prestige and its adoption by Highland regiments and pipers throughout the world. As enduring symbols of discipline, heritage, and honor in uniformed service, the Royal Stewart tartan and Hunting Stewart tartan are among the most recognizable.

Clan Symbols & Pride

• Crest: A pelican feeding her young, symbolizing sacrifice and protection.

• Motto: Virescit Vulnere Virtus — “Courage grows strong at a wound.”

• Plant Badge: Thistle, the national flower of Scotland, adopted by the Stewarts.

Families That Share the Heritage

There are a number of septs and surnames associated with the Stewart clan:

Boyd, Lennox, Mitchell, Moodie, Francis, Lisle, Menteith, Robb, Stuart, Walker

Stewart tartan is proudly worn by these families as a symbol of lineage, land, and loyalty.

The Stewart Clan Today

Clan Stewart remains one of the most prominent Scottish clans in the world. While the main clan has no recognized chief, branches like Stuart of Bute do. Researchers, reunions, and resources are available through the Stewart Society, based in Edinburgh.

Members of the clan continue to unite across continents through Highland Games, festivals, and cultural events.

Products Available

You can wear Stewart Tartan in many ways at Scottish Attire:

• Kilts – custom-fit for men, women, and children.

• Scarves, sashes, and shawls – elegant accessories for all ages.

• Ties, bow ties, and pocket squares – perfect for weddings and special occasions.

• Jackets, trews, and vests – full Highland dress options.

• Blankets, throws, and home accents – add a touch of Scotland to your space.

• Tartan fabric by the yard – ideal for crafts or tailoring.

Customization & Craftsmanship

We make every Stewart Tartan item to order, ensuring that it fits your measurements and style. Each piece reflects Scotland’s heritage of craftsmanship and quality, from hand-stitched kilts to machine-finished accessories.

Why Choose Us

• Authentic Scottish tailoring

• Over 5000 tartans available

• Worldwide shipping

• Dedicated customer support

Wear Your Story, Honor Your Heritage

When you wear the Stewart Tartan from Scottish Attire, you’re not just wearing fabric – you’re wearing Scotland’s royal bloodline. With its history, honor, and identity, this tartan embodies loyalty and pride. Honor centuries of resilience and carry your clan’s colors forward with dignity and strength for generations to come.