Tartan is a subject of fascination and deep controversy. It is seen for many people as one of the most concrete symbols of the Scottish nation.  Typically worn in Scotland, tartan refers to a pattern of horizontal and vertical stripes in multiple colours, normally worn as a kilt or sash. Clan Leslie has adopted two designs of tartan: Hunting and Dress. The term "Hunting" refers to the muted colours in this tartan pattern. Dress tartan is typically larger in square, as well as having white or more lively colours.

Arriving in Scotland around 1817 John Sobieski Stolberg Stuart and Charles Edward Stuart claimed, although never openly, that their paternal grandfather was the Bonnie Prince Charles Edward Stuart. The story consisted of Princess Louise, Prince Charles's wife and belonging to the Stolberg royal family, fled to Italy while pregnant to protect the identity of their father. 

On these grounds, the brothers found themselves in the courts of the aristocracy of Scotland. They grabbed the attention of many, when they declared to be in the possession of three manuscripts that documented original clan tartans, therefore proving the existence of clan tartans from the beginning of the clan system. The brothers erupted a controversial debate into the origins of clan tartans that has continued into the twenty-first century.