If your surname is MacNaghten, MacNaughton, McNaughton, or one of their many spelling variants, you’re connected to one of the Highlands’ oldest documented clans — one that claims descent from the Pictish rulers of Moray, centuries before most of Scotland’s better-known clans appear in the record. Before you order a Clan MacNaghten tartan kilt, it’s worth understanding the history behind the tartan and knowing exactly what to look for so the kilt you receive is authentic, well-made, and correctly fitted.
A Brief History of Clan MacNaghten
Clan MacNaghten traces its roots to the old Mormaers of Moray, and the family’s recorded history begins in 1267, when Alexander III appointed the MacNaughtons hereditary keepers of the Castle of Fraoch Eilean, a fortress guarding the Pass of Brander on Loch Awe. That role in guarding a strategically vital pass gave the clan its war cry, Fraoch Eilean “the heathery isle.”
The clan’s fortunes rose and fell with the great power struggles of medieval Scotland. The MacNaughtons initially sided with Clan MacDougall against Robert the Bruce, but the chief later fought for the Scottish crown at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. By the 16th century, the family had built Dunderave Castle on Loch Fyne, which still stands today and remains closely associated with the clan name. Like many Highland families, the MacNaughtons were gradually drawn into the orbit of the increasingly powerful Clan Campbell, and a branch of the family later emigrated to Antrim in Ireland, from which today’s recognised clan chief descends.
Motto, Crest & What They Mean
The Clan MacNaghten motto, “I Hope in God,” reflects the steady, faith-grounded outlook common to many Highland clan mottoes of the period. The clan crest, a tower embattled, is a direct nod to the family’s long history as castle keepers, first at Fraoch Eilean and later at Dunderave. The plant badge, trailing azalea, is the botanical emblem members traditionally wore to identify themselves as MacNaughtons at gatherings and in battle.
What Does the MacNaghten Tartan Look Like?
The MacNaughton tartan is a Highland district-style sett, and like most clan tartans, it’s available in different colourway registrations:
- Modern — the boldest, most saturated version, using today’s standard synthetic dye colours.
- Ancient — a softer, warmer palette designed to approximate the vegetable dyes historically available to Highland weavers.
- Weathered (sometimes called Reproduction or Muted) a faded, antique-look colourway meant to resemble a tartan that has aged naturally over decades.
If you’re buying your first MacNaghten kilt, Ancient or Modern are the safest, most versatile choices for weddings, Highland Games, or everyday Highland wear. Weathered setts tend to suit more casual or vintage-styled outfits.
Buying Guide: What to Check Before You Order
1. Fabric weight. Clan tartan kilts are typically woven in 10oz, 13oz, or 16oz wool (or wool-blend) cloth. A 13oz weight is the most popular all-round choice — heavy enough to hold its pleats and drape properly, light enough for all-day wear at a wedding or Highland Games.
2. Yardage. An 8-yard kilt uses more fabric and holds deeper, crisper pleats, giving a fuller, more traditional silhouette. A 5-yard kilt is lighter and more budget-friendly, and is a perfectly acceptable choice for anyone new to wearing a kilt.
3. Authentic sett matching. Confirm the supplier is weaving to the registered MacNaughton sett (thread count and color sequence), not a “similar” generic tartan. This matters both for authenticity and because family members will recognize the real pattern.
4. Made-to-measure vs stock sizing. Because a kilt is worn higher and snugger than trousers — at or just above the natural waist — your kilt waist size will usually run a couple of inches larger than your usual trouser size. A made-to-measure kilt, built from your actual waist, seat, and length measurements, removes the guesswork and gives a far better drape than an off-the-shelf size.
Styling Your Clan MacNaghten Kilt
For a formal occasion such as a wedding, pair your MacNaghten tartan kilt with a Prince Charlie jacket, a dress sporran, and a clan-crest kilt pin featuring the embattled tower — a small but meaningful way to carry the clan’s heraldry into the outfit. For Highland Games or a more relaxed daytime event, an Argyll jacket or simply a tweed jacket over a plain shirt works well with the same tartan.
Browse our tartan kilt collection to see current fabric and yardage options, or get in touch for a made-to-measure MacNaghten kilt built to your exact measurements.
FAQ’s
Is MacNaghten the same as MacNaughton?
Yes. MacNaghten, MacNaughton, McNaughton, and McNaghten are all accepted spelling variants of the same clan name, and all are entitled to wear the same tartan.
What tartan do MacNaghten septs and related families wear?
Sept and related families connected to Clan MacNaghten including names like Henderson and Hendry in some genealogies traditionally wear the MacNaughton tartan or a suitable district/universal tartan if their own family tartan isn’t registered.
Can women wear the Clan MacNaghten tartan?
Yes the tartan isn’t restricted by gender. It’s commonly used for kilted skirts, sashes, and wraps as well as men’s kilts.
How much does a made-to-measure MacNaghten kilt cost?
Pricing depends on fabric weight, yardage (5-yard vs 8-yard), and any customisation. Contact us for a quote based on your exact requirements.
