Kilt

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Scottish mercenaries in the Thirty Years War

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Kilt&Sporran

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William Gordon Batoni

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Kilted

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kilt pleats 002

Kilt

A kilt is a type of knee-length skirt with pleats at the back, originating in the traditional dress of men and boys in the Scottish Highlands of the 16th century. Since the 19th century, it has become associated with the wider culture of Scotland in general, or with Celtic (and more specifically Gaelic) heritage elsewhere. It is most often made of woolen cloth in a tartan pattern.

History

The kilt first appeared as the great kilt, the breacan an fhéilidh or the belted plaid, during the 16th century, and was a full-length garment whose upper half could be worn as a cloak draped over the shoulder, or brought up over the head. The small kilt or walking kilt (similar to the modern kilt) came into being in the 18th century when the large cloak was separated into a distinct skirt and upper garment.

Design and Construction

The kilt is a tailored garment that is wrapped around the wearer's body at the natural waist (between the lowest rib and the hip) starting from one side (usually the wearer's left), around the front and back and across the front again to the opposite side. The fastening is achieved with 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 simply tie. The kilt covers the body from the waist down to the centre of the knees. The overlapping layers in front are called "aprons" and are flat; the single layer of fabric around the sides and back is pleated. A kilt pin is fastened to the front apron on the free corner.

Materials

Traditionally, kilts are made from woolen cloth in a tartan pattern. While tartans are often associated with specific clans, families, or regions, there are also many "universal" tartans that anyone can wear. Modern kilts may be made from other materials, including leather, denim, or even polyviscose.

Accessories

Several accessories are often worn with the kilt, including a sporran, which is a type of pouch that performs the same function as pockets on the pocket-less kilt. Other accessories can include a belt and buckle, kilt hose (socks), garters, tartan flashes, and a sgian-dubh (a small, ceremonial knife). Formal occasions may call for a specific set of accessories, such as a dirk (a long knife), a waistcoat, or a jacket.

Cultural Significance

The kilt is a symbol of Scottish national pride and cultural identity, especially among the Scottish diaspora in places like the United States, Canada, and Australia. It is also worn by members of Scottish regiments in the British Army and in other military units worldwide. Beyond its use in traditional dress, the kilt has been adapted into the uniforms of Scouting organizations and is also worn at contemporary events such as weddings and sports events.

Modern Usage

Today, the kilt is worn on formal and informal occasions alike. Innovations such as utility kilts have broadened the appeal of the garment beyond its traditional roots. The kilt continues to be a powerful symbol of Scottish identity and heritage, celebrated at cultural events and Highland games around the world.