King Charles dons tartan kilt during Balmoral stay in August

King Charles has been residing at Balmoral with Queen Camilla since August and plans to stay until October. Upon his arrival on August 19, he wore a tartan kilt, although it was not the Royal Stewart pattern, which is reserved for the monarch's personal use. The tradition of the Royal Family wearing kilts began in 1830, with Queen Victoria being the first to adopt this Scottish attire. The Balmoral pattern, inspired by Royal Stewart, was created in the 1850s. The kilt has a rich history tied to Scottish clan identity, originally worn below the knee for protection against both the heather and rival clans. While the Royal Family has embraced this tradition, there are nuances, such as Prince William's hesitance to wear a kilt, despite having been seen in one as a child. The practice of wearing kilts has also extended to certain civilian groups in Canada and Australia, who are allowed to incorporate it into their official uniforms. A notable aspect of kilt-wearing culture is the belief that true Scotsmen do not wear underwear beneath their kilts, a tradition that remains a topic of speculation regarding the Royal Family. The Royals' fondness for Balmoral and its associated customs, including the wearing of kilts, reflects a deep-rooted appreciation for Scottish heritage. Overall, the Royal Family's engagement with Scottish traditions, particularly through the use of tartan and kilts, highlights their connection to Scotland and its cultural practices, reinforcing the significance of these customs in their annual summer retreats.