The Ultimate Guide to Wearing a Kilt: History, Etiquette, and Step-by-Step Instructions
Wearing a kilt is more than just putting on a garment; it’s embracing a rich cultural heritage, a symbol of Scottish pride, and a statement of individuality. Whether you’re attending a formal event, a casual gathering, or simply want to connect with your Scottish roots, understanding how to wear a kilt properly is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the history, etiquette, and step-by-step instructions to ensure you wear your kilt with confidence and respect.
## A Brief History of the Kilt
The kilt’s origins can be traced back to the 16th century Scottish Highlands. The original kilt, known as the *féileadh mor* (great plaid), was a large, untailored piece of tartan cloth that was gathered and belted at the waist. The upper portion could be worn over the shoulder as a cloak or used as a blanket. This versatile garment provided warmth, protection, and camouflage in the rugged Highland terrain.
Around the 18th century, the *féileadh beag* (small plaid), or walking kilt, emerged. This was essentially the bottom portion of the great kilt, pre-pleated and tailored for ease of movement. The modern kilt, as we know it today, is a direct descendant of the *féileadh beag*.
The kilt has endured periods of suppression, notably after the Jacobite rising of 1745 when the Dress Act banned Highland dress. However, it was revived in the 19th century by Romanticism and the patronage of figures like King George IV and Queen Victoria, becoming a powerful symbol of Scottish identity.
## Understanding Kilt Attire Components
Before delving into the steps of wearing a kilt, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key components of a traditional kilt outfit:
* **The Kilt:** The centerpiece of the ensemble, a wool garment wrapped around the waist and pleated at the back. Kilts are typically made from tartan, a woven wool cloth with a distinctive pattern representing a specific Scottish clan or family.
* **Kilt Pin:** A decorative brooch fastened to the outer apron of the kilt. It adds weight to prevent the apron from blowing open and serves as a stylish accessory. It is important to note it is only secured to the outer apron and should not go through to the under apron.
* **Sporran:** A pouch or purse worn at the front of the kilt, traditionally made of leather or fur. It serves as a functional pocket, as kilts do not have them. Sporrans come in various styles, from simple day sporrans to elaborate dress sporrans.
* **Belt and Buckle:** A leather belt, typically with an embossed or ornate buckle, worn around the waist over the kilt. The buckle should be visible in the center front.
* **Kilt Hose (Socks):** Woolen socks worn knee-high, often in a solid color like cream, white, or a color that complements the tartan. They are usually ribbed and thick.
* **Garters (Flashes):** Elastic or woolen bands worn under the kilt hose to hold them up. They often feature decorative flashes of tartan that peek out from the top of the hose.
* **Ghillie Brogues:** Traditional Scottish shoes made of soft leather with long laces that wrap around the ankles. The laces are tied above the ankle to prevent them from getting muddy.
* **Sgian Dubh:** A small, single-edged knife traditionally worn tucked into the top of the kilt hose. It’s usually worn on the dominant side.
* **Shirt:** The shirt worn with a kilt depends on the formality of the occasion. Options include a Jacobite shirt (a loose-fitting, open-necked shirt), a dress shirt with a tie, or a more casual tweed shirt.
* **Jacket:** Similar to the shirt, the jacket depends on the formality. Options range from a tweed Argyll jacket for daywear to a formal Prince Charlie jacket for evening events.
## Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Wear a Kilt
Follow these steps to ensure you wear your kilt correctly and confidently:
**1. Preparing the Kilt:**
* **Lay the Kilt Flat:** Place the kilt on a flat surface, inside facing up. The pleats should be neatly arranged.
* **Identify the Straps:** Locate the two straps on the inside of the kilt. One is a buckle strap, and the other is a plain strap with holes.
**2. Positioning the Kilt:**
* **Wrap the Kilt Around Your Waist:** Stand with the kilt wrapped around your waist, ensuring the flat, unpleated apron (the under apron) is against your left side.
* **Align the Apron Edge:** The edge of the under apron should align with the center of your front. This means the edge of the fabric should be directly in line with the middle of your body.
* **Secure the Inner Strap:** Take the buckle strap from the under apron (left side) and fasten it through the appropriate hole on the plain strap on the inside of the kilt. Adjust the tightness so the kilt feels snug but not too tight. It should sit comfortably at your natural waistline, which is usually just above your hip bones.
**3. Wrapping the Outer Apron:**
* **Bring the Outer Apron Across:** Take the outer apron (the pleated section) and wrap it across your front, overlapping the under apron. The pleats should remain neatly arranged and facing outwards.
* **Secure the Outer Strap:** Fasten the strap on the outer apron to the buckle on the front of the kilt. Adjust the tightness to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The kilt should feel balanced and not pull to one side.
**4. Adjusting the Kilt Length:**
* **Kneel Down:** Kneel on the floor. The bottom edge of the kilt should just touch the floor. This indicates the correct length when you are standing.
* **Fine-Tune the Position:** If the kilt is too long or too short, adjust the straps slightly until the length is correct. It’s important to get this right, as the length affects the overall appearance and comfort.
**5. Adding the Kilt Pin:**
* **Position the Kilt Pin:** Place the kilt pin on the outer apron of the kilt, approximately 4 inches (10 cm) from the bottom edge and 2 inches (5 cm) in from the side. The pin should be on the right-hand side when wearing the kilt.
* **Attach the Kilt Pin:** Carefully push the pin through the outer layer of the apron only; it should not go through the under apron. This prevents the pin from damaging the pleats and allows the apron to move freely.
**6. Donning the Sporran:**
* **Choose the Right Sporran:** Select a sporran that is appropriate for the occasion. A simple leather sporran is suitable for casual events, while a more elaborate fur or metal sporran is ideal for formal occasions.
* **Attach the Sporran Chain or Strap:** Most sporrans come with a chain or leather strap. Attach this to the loops at the back of the kilt waistband. The loops are typically located on either side of the rear pleats.
* **Position the Sporran:** The sporran should hang centered in front of the kilt, approximately 4 inches (10 cm) below the bottom of the belt buckle. Adjust the chain or strap length to achieve the correct positioning.
**7. Wearing the Belt and Buckle:**
* **Choose a Suitable Belt:** Select a leather belt that complements your kilt outfit. The belt should be wide enough to accommodate the buckle and strong enough to support the weight.
* **Thread the Belt Through the Loops:** Thread the belt through the loops on the kilt waistband, ensuring the buckle is centered at the front.
* **Adjust the Belt:** Tighten the belt so it fits comfortably around your waist, over the top edge of the kilt. The buckle should be visible and not obscured by the sporran.
**8. Putting on the Kilt Hose and Flashes:**
* **Roll Down the Kilt Hose:** Roll down the kilt hose to just below the knee.
* **Attach the Garters (Flashes):** Position the garters (flashes) around your leg, just below the rolled-down hose. The flashes should be visible on the outside of your leg.
* **Roll Up the Kilt Hose:** Roll the kilt hose back up, covering the garters and flashes. The top of the hose should sit just below the knee.
* **Adjust the Flashes:** Ensure the flashes are evenly spaced and visible on either side of the hose. They should add a pop of color and visual interest to the outfit.
**9. Selecting and Wearing the Ghillie Brogues:**
* **Put on the Ghillie Brogues:** Put on the ghillie brogues and lace them up, crossing the laces over the tongue of the shoe.
* **Wrap the Laces Around Your Ankles:** Wrap the laces around your ankles, starting from the inside and working outwards. The laces should be snug but not too tight.
* **Tie the Laces:** Tie the laces in a knot on the outside of your ankle. Tuck the ends of the laces into the wraps to keep them secure and prevent them from trailing on the ground.
**10. Adding the Sgian Dubh (Optional):**
* **Choose the Correct Sgian Dubh:** Select a sgian dubh that is appropriate for the occasion. Sgian dubhs come in various styles, from simple wooden-handled knives to more ornate metal-handled ones.
* **Position the Sgian Dubh:** Tuck the sgian dubh into the top of your kilt hose, on your dominant side. Only the handle of the knife should be visible; the blade should be concealed.
**11. Choosing the Right Shirt and Jacket:**
* **Consider the Occasion:** The shirt and jacket you choose should be appropriate for the formality of the event.
* **Formal Events:** For formal events, such as weddings or ceilidhs, a dress shirt with a tie and a Prince Charlie jacket are typically worn. The Prince Charlie jacket is a short, formal jacket with silver buttons and tails.
* **Semi-Formal Events:** For semi-formal events, such as dinners or parties, a dress shirt or a Jacobite shirt with an Argyll jacket can be worn. The Argyll jacket is a tweed jacket with a more relaxed fit.
* **Casual Events:** For casual events, such as Highland games or informal gatherings, a tweed shirt or a casual button-down shirt can be worn without a jacket.
## Kilt Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts
Wearing a kilt comes with certain expectations and etiquette. Here are some important dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
**Dos:**
* **Wear it with Pride:** Wear your kilt with confidence and pride in your heritage.
* **Research Your Tartan:** If possible, wear the tartan associated with your family or clan. If you don’t have a specific clan affiliation, you can wear a universal tartan, such as the Royal Stewart or the Black Watch.
* **Be Mindful of the Length:** Ensure your kilt is the correct length. It should fall to the middle of the knee when standing.
* **Keep the Pleats Neat:** Make sure the pleats at the back of the kilt are neatly arranged and not crumpled or untidy.
* **Polished Shoes:** Ensure your ghillie brogues are clean and polished.
* **Answer Questions Graciously:** Be prepared to answer questions about your kilt and its significance. Share your knowledge and enthusiasm with others.
* **Respect the Tradition:** Understand and respect the traditions associated with wearing a kilt. It’s more than just a fashion statement; it’s a symbol of Scottish culture.
**Don’ts:**
* **Don’t Treat it Lightly:** Avoid treating the kilt as a costume or a novelty item. It’s a significant garment with a rich history.
* **Don’t Wear it Inappropriately:** Avoid wearing a kilt in situations where it would be disrespectful, such as in very casual settings or when engaging in activities that could damage it.
* **Don’t Lift the Kilt:** Never lift the kilt to show what’s underneath. This is considered extremely rude and disrespectful.
* **Don’t Misrepresent Your Heritage:** Avoid wearing a specific clan tartan if you have no connection to that clan. It’s better to choose a universal tartan instead.
* **Don’t Forget the Accessories:** Wearing a kilt without the proper accessories (sporran, hose, flashes, etc.) can make the outfit look incomplete and unauthentic.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help:** If you’re unsure about any aspect of wearing a kilt, don’t hesitate to ask for help from someone who is knowledgeable about Scottish attire.
## Choosing the Right Tartan
The tartan is a defining feature of the kilt, and choosing the right one is essential. Here are some factors to consider:
* **Clan Tartan:** The most traditional option is to wear the tartan associated with your family or clan. If you know your family’s clan affiliation, research the corresponding tartan and choose that one.
* **District Tartan:** If you don’t have a specific clan affiliation, you can wear a district tartan, which represents a particular region of Scotland.
* **Universal Tartan:** Universal tartans, such as the Royal Stewart, Black Watch, and Scottish National, are suitable for anyone to wear, regardless of their clan or regional ties.
* **Personal Preference:** Ultimately, the choice of tartan is a personal one. Choose a tartan that you like and that you feel comfortable wearing. Consider the colors, pattern, and overall aesthetic when making your decision.
## Caring for Your Kilt
Proper care is essential to ensure your kilt lasts for many years. Here are some tips for caring for your kilt:
* **Dry Cleaning:** Kilts should be dry cleaned rather than machine washed. Dry cleaning helps to preserve the shape, color, and texture of the wool fabric.
* **Storage:** Store your kilt in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Hang it on a kilt hanger to prevent creasing and maintain its shape. Alternatively, you can fold it carefully and store it in a garment bag.
* **Spot Cleaning:** If you spill something on your kilt, spot clean it immediately with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can damage the fabric.
* **Pressing:** If your kilt becomes creased, you can press it with an iron on a low setting. Use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric from direct heat.
* **Repairing:** If your kilt becomes damaged, such as a tear or a loose pleat, have it repaired by a professional tailor who is experienced in working with kilts.
## Where to Buy a Kilt
If you’re looking to purchase a kilt, here are some options to consider:
* **Traditional Kilt Makers:** There are many reputable kilt makers in Scotland and around the world who specialize in crafting high-quality, custom-made kilts. These kilt makers often offer a wide selection of tartans and can provide expert advice on choosing the right kilt for you.
* **Online Retailers:** Many online retailers sell kilts, ranging from affordable, mass-produced options to more expensive, handcrafted kilts. Be sure to research the retailer carefully and read reviews before making a purchase.
* **Highland Outfitters:** Highland outfitters are stores that specialize in Scottish clothing and accessories. They typically offer a range of kilts, as well as other traditional Scottish garments and accessories.
* **Secondhand Stores:** You may be able to find a used kilt at a secondhand store or online marketplace. This can be a more affordable option, but be sure to inspect the kilt carefully for any damage or wear.
## Conclusion
Wearing a kilt is a meaningful way to connect with Scottish heritage and express your individuality. By following these step-by-step instructions and adhering to kilt etiquette, you can wear your kilt with confidence and respect. Remember to choose the right tartan, accessorize appropriately, and care for your kilt properly to ensure it lasts for generations. Whether you’re attending a formal event, a casual gathering, or simply want to celebrate your Scottish roots, wearing a kilt is a powerful statement of pride and tradition.
So go forth, embrace the spirit of the Highlands, and wear your kilt with pride! Sláinte mhath!