Kilts are Scottish and Irish, believe it or not. More traditionally kilts are Scottish, dating back to the sixteenth century. However, Ireland has a rich tradition of kilt-wearing, as well. The main difference between Scottish and Irish kilts are the tartans. Scottish tartans represent clans or families, and there are 25,000 registered Scottish tartans. Irish tartans are based on counties or districts. There are also tartans for militaries, royal families, and police, to name a few.