Traditional Kilts To The Modern Utility Kilt
If there’s one thing that can be send about the people from Scotland, it’s that they love two things – their football, and their kilts. While most people outside of Scotland think of kilts as simply a plaid skirt that men wear, there’s actually more to it than meets the eye.
History of Kilts
The kilt is considered to be the national dress of Scotland. Considered a garment to be worn on special occasions by many, it actually has deep cultural and historical roots. Kilts have been around since the 16th century. The term is a Scot word that referred to garment tuck up around the body. A number of records point to the tartan wrap as the origin of kilts.
Traditionally, kilts were made of a full-length garment with the upper half being used as a cloak placed over one’s shoulder. This is what most people know as the great kilt. As time passed, the kilt was reduced to just the skirt part, and was referred to as the walking kilt.
By the 19th century, the kilt became a form of ceremonial dress used in formal events such as weddings and sporting occasions, although, of late, it has also been a part of informal gatherings.
Modern Kilt Usage and Design
Modern, high quality kilts are now gaining popularity due to their comfort, style, and uniqueness. The modern kilt can still be worn during formal occasions, as well as for casual and fancy wear. As a traditional item, it is widely used during special occasions to celebrate Scottish cultural events.
Utility kilts, on the other hand, are also available for casual wear due to their utility and practical freedom of use as well how easy it is to wear it with about any shirt. This is the same reason why kilts are perfect for fashionable individuals, as these kilts go with about any type of toy. The only other important things to consider are the accessories that accompany your kilt.
The design of the modern kilt does not differ from its older counterpart in that it still retains the design that allows freedom, if you know what I mean, while maintaining modesty. The big difference with today’s kilts is the existence of more pockets and the use of modern materials making the kilts heavy and useful. The weight of the kilt is very important as it helps it from blowing around like a woman’s dress.
Different accessories are needed to complement a kilt and make it look formal. Casual wearers need not worry about most of the traditional accessories, but for those who are formally wearing to a formal event, knowing all the different belts, buckles, hoses, and pins is vital.
Sources:
(A History of Scottish Kilts, https://www.authenticireland.com/scottish-kilts/)
(Kilt Outfits Explained, http://buyakilt.com/info/kilt-outfits-explained)
