Understanding The Tartance Of Kilts In Scottish Culture

Kilts are a knee-length pleated skirt worn by men in Scotland and by Scottish regiments in the British armies. This item of clothing, which has been a very important part of Scottish culture, is still widely used today in formal occasions, sporting events, and recently, in everyday fashionable informal clothing for men.
Before we begin talking about the kilt, we need to first have an understanding of the tartan. A tartan is a pattern made of criss-crossed bands of many different colors. Many American people refer to this pattern as plaid, but in Scotland, plaid is known as a blanket or a tartan cloth used as a kilt accessory (“Tartan”). Though this pattern started on woven wool, it is now often seen in many different types of fabrics. When
You can see kilts worn as costumes, or even in restaurants. It is important, though, to know how to wear a kilt because wearing a kilt wrong can be disrespectful to its heritage. One of the most important things to remember when wearing a kilt is that it should never be longer than the top of the knee. (“How to Wear a Kilt”) There are many different items that make up the appropriate kilt wear, but there are many different combinations you can use in order to personalize your complete outfit. First, for the shirt, one should wear a plain white shirt with an attached collar, or a wing collar with a black bowtie is acceptable. (“How to Wear a Kilt”) Kilt hose are also important. “The turnover of the hose should be just above the calf but lower than the lowest part of the knee” in order to properly wear these socks (“How to Wear a Kilt”). The tights color is important and should be cream or black. White hose should not be worn unless you are a part of a military function. If garter flashes are being used, they should be clipped on and unfolded to show about two inches of the pattern on the outside of the stock (“How to Wear a Kilt”). A Sgian Dubh, which is a black knife or dagger, should be tucked into the right stocking, and if left-handed, it can being tucked into the left stocking is acceptable (“How to Wear a Kilt”). If it has a crest, it should be facing outwards. As for shoes, Ghillie brogues are commonly worn (“How to Wear a Kilt”). These shoes have laces which are very long and also have an appropriate way to be tied. Lastly, “the kilt is wrapped around the waist and is secured by straps and buckles, with the pleats at the back” (“How to Wear a Kilt”). It should be pulled on from the right to the left., as you can see, there are many rules that make up the kilt. If not done properly, the kilt will not have the same meaning.