Royal Warrants and The Balmoral Tartan

Royal Warrants

Over the years, Kinloch Anderson has received many accolades, but particular pride is taken in The Royal Warrants of Appointment as Tailors and Kiltmakers.

Kinloch Anderson has for over a century supplied tartan and tailored kilts, skirts and clothing for the Royal Family. 

In 1903 Kinloch Anderson first supplied the Royal Family with tartans for King Edward VII and the first Royal Warrant was granted by HM King George V and subsequently HM King George VI.

Subsequently Kinloch Anderson was granted the Royal Warrant of Appointment as Tailors and Kiltmakers to HM Queen Elizabeth II, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and HRH The Prince of Wales.

Today Kinloch Anderson holds a Royal Warrant of Appointment as Tailors and Kiltmakers to HM King Charles III being one of the first 145 indivduals and businesses to receive such an award.

In order to be considered for the granting of a Royal Warrant of Appointment, a company must supply the member of the Royal Family concerned, or their Household, with products or services in significant quantity over a lengthy period of time.

The concept of the Royal Warrant of Appointment dates back to the advent of the monarchy. By the 15th Century, Royal Tradesmen were appointed formally in writing by means of a Royal Warrant issued by the Lord Chamberlain, a practice which continues to this day.

The Royal Warrant has always been recognition of personal service of the highest order. It is granted to a named individual within the company who is then responsible for ensuring that the Warrant is correctly used.

There are strict rules which govern the use and display of the Royal Arms, and the final decision to grant a Royal Warrant of Appointment is made by the member of the Royal Family concerned.

Balmoral Tartan

The Balmoral Tartan was designed in 1857 by HRH Prince Albert, Prince Consort to Queen Victoria and was named after their Castle in Deeside. It is composed of different rations of black and white threads which represent the subtle greys of the Deeside granite.

It is the private property of The Royal Family and can only be worn after permission from The reigning Monarch. The only other person permitted to wear the Balmoral Tartan is The Sovereign's Piper, whose kilt and plaid are made in it.