The Scottish kilt displays uniqueness of design, construction, and convention which differentiate it from other garments fitting the general description. It is a tailored garment that is wrapped around the wearers body, forming a wide, girdle-like wrap around the midriff (between the lowest rib and the hip). starting from one side (usually the wearers left), extending around the front and back and across the front again to the opposite side. The fastenings consist of straps and buckles on both ends, the strap on the inside end usually passing through a slit in the waistband to be buckled on the outside; alternatively it may remain inside the waistband and be buckled inside. A kilt covers the body from the midriff down to the centre of the knees (the best way to set the length is to kneel before a mirror and set the low hem about half an inch off the floor). The overlapping layers in front are called aprons and are flat; the single layer of fabric which extends around the sides and back is pleated. A kilt pin is fastened to the front apron on the free corner (but is not passed through the layer below, as its function is to add weight not fasten the layers together). Underwear may or may not be worn, as the wearer prefers, and although tradition has it that a true Scotsman should wear nothing under his kilt due to practises adopted by Scottish soldiers in the past, circumstances may dictate wearing an undergarment in the interests of both hygiene and/or decency. If one wishes to wear the kilt in the Scottish tradition, it would be considered good form to accompany it with a sporran and belt. What one wears in conjunction with the kilt is for the individual to imagine, however, there are a number of complimentary garments which have been specifically designed to accompany the kilt. In particular, a range of specifically-designed jackets have been developed over the generations, most of which have had accessories made to compliment them and each as ostentatious as the next, to suit a variety of formalities. It thus occurs that if one intends to adopt any of these particular styles or wishes to convey a certain air of formality on occasion, a little homework might be wise to ensuring the right pieces are worn together to ensure some degree of harmony to your outfit (the premise being that one would not be seen wearing training shoes with a Tuxedo or indeed, wear a Tux to a hunt)! Beyond these guidelines, the kilt is a garment like any other, to be enjoyed as you feel comfortable. But if you do, consider the heritage and culture the kilt promotes and treat it as you would any other culture... with dignity and respect.
Posted on: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 04:26:20 +0000
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