The traditional garment of Scotland, the kilt is a type of skirt that has a Celtic history. It is wrapped around the waist, covering the upper legs, just above the knees. From the selvedge to the waist, the kilt is open along a line on the sides and is fastened by buckles and straps. The apron, the part that overlaps is positioned in front while the rest of the garment is pleated. Over the years, the kilt has seen changes in style and the way it is worn.
There are three basic types of kilts. The Great kilt is the original Scottish kilt; it is made form 2 pieces of tartan wool, and is wrapped around the waist which is then fastened with a belt. The Little kilt or the Phillibeg is the kilt you see today, the pleats are sewn down. The Hipster kilt is a semi-traditional kilt where the top of the kilt rings around the hips rather than the waist. This version came around with the evolution of the way modern clothes are worn.
The fabric used to make a kilt is called tartan, which is a twill woven worsted wool. The weave includes a distinctive diagonal pattern; this is called a twill line. The weight of the fabric varies with the season and the activity. The kilt can be dressed down for a more casual look with moccasins, and a tee-shirt.
Worn more as a ceremonial dress today, men can be seen wearing kilts during formal occasions and weddings, although there are a few who wear them daily. The kilt is also worn during parades and highland games or during traditional Scottish dances. |