About Kilts
Kilts are knee-length garments made famous by Scottish Highlanders in the 16th century. Today they are most commonly associated with Scottish culture or with Celtic and Gaelic heritage in other places. In recent years, kilts have become fashionable attire for males in casual and formal situations.
History
Kilts first appeared in the late 16th century in Scotland. The first kilts, known as great kilts, were full-length garments worn as cloaks or pulled up over the head. In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the small kilts we are familiar with today were developed. In the early 19th century, small kilts were adopted by Lowlanders as a symbol of national identity.
Types
Scottish kilts are the most familiar and are worn at formal occasions such as weddings and Highland games and sporting events. Irish kilts are not uncommon among Irish-Americans. Modern kilts have made an appearance in clothing stores in Scotland, the United States and Canada. These types of kilts are available in a wide array of fabrics and can be used for casual or formal affairs.
Geography
Kilts were originally worn by Scotsmen, but other cultures have adopted them. Irish, Cornish, Welsh and Manx peoples have worn kilts in modern times, but to a much lesser degree. They can also be seen in Brittany, Portugal and Spain. Modern kilts have also become increasingly popular among Irish- and Scottish-Americans and -Canadians.
Features
Traditional Scottish kilts are made of worsted wool and tweed. The most important feature of a true Scottish kilt is the tartan pattern. In contrast, original Irish kilts were made from solid-colored cloth. Real kilts are made without hems and are pleated in the rear with box or knife pleats. However, modern kilts don't always adhere to the traditional standards.
Scottish kilts are often worn with woolen socks turned down at the knee and a sporran (a type of purse) hung from the waist by a leather strap or chain. Jackets and belts accompany formal kilt attire but are not always worn casually.
Size
It is traditional that kilts be tailored to the wearer. Standard-size kilts have been manufactured but are considered of low quality, especially by traditionalists. Waist, hip and length measurements are required to tailor individual kilts. The kilt should reach no lower than halfway across the knee and no higher than 1 inch above it.
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