The RCMP has had its own tartan since 1998, when it was created to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Force.
The committee selected a tartan design based on artwork by Mrs. Violet Holmes, of Burnaby, British Columbia The tartan was produced in partnership with Burnett's and Struth Scottish Regalia Ltd. of Barrie, Ontario, and Lochcarron of Scotland woolen mills.
Following approval by then-Commissioner Phillip Murray, the tartan was officially registered with the Scottish Tartans Society in Pitlochry, Scotland, and was formally presented to the RCMP by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne during her visit to Canada in 1998.
The tartan was worn for the first time by a band of RCMP pipers and drummers at the Nova Scotia International Tattoo in July and August 1998.
The design's rich and symbolic colours are taken from the force's uniform and badge:
Dark blue
From the traditional breeches worn by regular members
Scarlet
From the world-renowned red serge tunic
Yellow
From the cavalry stripes on RCMP uniform pants and the band on the forage cap
Sienna brown
From the bison at the centrepiece of the badge; also symbolizes Canada's western plains and the heartland of the RCMP
Forest green
From the maple leaf, a distinctly Canadian symbol
White
From the lanyard worn with the ceremonial uniform; also evokes the link between the Force and Canada's First Nations, for whom white symbolizes strength and endurance, traits that are part of the RCMP's legacy
Sky blue
From the background of the badge as well as the beret worn by RCMP members serving as United Nations peacekeepers