Highland Fling

Kilts are a traditional part of Scottish dress and are therefore a popular choice for grooms who have Scottish heritage in their family tree. The wearing of a kilt is rich in history with different tartans for different families and has a lot of symbolism behind it. Of course, not to mention that men in kilts look gorgeous! With this becoming more and more common as a form of wedding attire, I have delved into the Scottish history books to find out more about this national treasure: Why did it come about, how do you wear it and, more importantly, what do you really wear underneath?

The History of Kilts

The kilt is believed to have been first worn before the 16th century and was originally so long that it was used as a cloak. It wasn’t until around the 18th century that the shorter kilt we know and love today came to be worn. In 1822 the kilt became recognised as a symbol of Scotland as a whole rather than individual regions, and Queen Victoria helped encourage the popularity of the kilt by dressing her boys in them.
It was also in the Victorian era that the tartans started to be recorded. Many tartans relate to a particular family and these records provide a fantastic resource into tartan patterns today. These days there are over 5000 available!

How the Kilt is Made

The authentic Scottish kilt is made from a thick wool tartan and varies in weight. Surprisingly, the average kilt uses up a lot of material at approximately 7 yards of fabric, although this depends on the wearer- the kilt should sit high on the waist and come down to just above the knees. In order to hang just right, they are often made without a hem (though I can’t help thinking it could all unravel at an entirely inappropriate time!). So you see, making a kilt is a very particular art and not something that can be rushed into on a whim. There is so much to consider but it’s well worth getting a proper kilt custom made to ensure it fits correctly.

How to Wear a Kilt

There is a complex trick to putting the kilt on itself, which is best left for a professional to explain- I dread to think of the chaos I could cause! The important thing to remember is to wear the pleats at the back. Don’t make like Richard Branson (left) and wear it the wrong way around- the poor man is the laughing stock of the kilt world! Then there is the dilemma of what to wear underneath! It really is up to you. Not just a myth, it really is traditional to wear nothing underneath. This could give your bride a naughty surprise, but be careful of strong winds- you don’t want to give anybody else a surprise! If you have the groomsmen in kilts too and they also choose to go commando, think of the cheeky photos that could result from a line of men baring their behinds! Perhaps not the most elegant and classy of shots but it’s certainly something a little different!
For those men who are a little more reserved, they can wear anything they like to retain their modesty.

Where to Buy a Kilt

It is advisable to buy a custom made kilt rather than off the peg or rental, although this can get very expensive. However, you don’t necessarily need to travel up to Scotland to get one made. The London Kilt Maker made the kilts from the film “The Queen” and all kilts are completely custom made. They even provide a kilt on loan free of charge whilst they make your order, so you can get used to wearing it before the big day.

If you’d rather not have the expense of custom made, Hector Russell sell kilts from £200 in a range of weights and tartans so you can mix and match to get the kilt that is perfect for you. They also rent kilts for those on a tighter budget, starting from a miniscule £44.

Kilts always look fantastic and suit all men. They’re also a lovely way to nod at your Scottish heritage, or perhaps to remember a Scottish friend or family member. Always a favourite with bride and guests alike, you can be as cheeky as you want to!