How to Wear a Kilt Outfit

Kilts are an old Scottish tradition

Kilts are part of Scottish tradition, and very often you will see performers wearing kilts when they play bagpipes or give demonstrations. A kilt outfit is not overly difficult to put on, but it consists of several steps that must be followed correctly in order to wear the kilt properly. Generally, it is recommended to wear a white t-shirt underneath the kilt, as other colors would clash with the plaid pattern of the kilt. If you are having trouble strapping the sporran to the back, you can ask someone to do it for you.

Instructions

1. Pass the under apron of the kilt from the right side to the left, threading the strap through the hole and securing it in place with the buckle.

2. Repeat Step 1 for the top apron of the kilt. The top apron folds exactly over the under apron, creating 2 layers of the kilt. Like the under apron, it is threaded through a strap and buckled in place.

3. Adjust the kilt so that it rests at your waist and hangs slightly below your knees.

4. Put on a leather belt, and attach the sporran to the back of it so that it hangs from your kilt. More than anything else, the sporran is a pouch where you can put valuables such as car keys and wallet since kilts do not have pockets.

5. Put on the kilt hose and fold them two or three times so that they are below your knees. Kilts have special shoes called ghillie brogues that should be laced in a crossing pattern, then passed around your ankle and tied in the front.

6. Put on the kilt jacket. There are two types of kilt jacket; the Prince Charlie and the Argyle. The Prince Charlie is for formal events only, and should be worn with a bow tie. The Argyle can be worn to a variety of semi formal events or if it is cold outside.

Tips & Warnings

• There are a variety of other accessories you can wear on your kilt. These accessories depend on both your clan and your personal preference. Some clans have specific hats they wear with their kilt, others wear a sgian dubh, which is a small knife that is clipped on. If it is going to be windy outside, use a kilt pin to hold your kilt together so that it does not blow open. You should always wear underwear underneath your kilt.

References

• Your Kilt: How To Wear A Kilt
• Scottish Tartans: Advice For the Kilt Wearer