The kilt does not complete the outfit. Scottish dress comes with a variety of accessories designed for wearing along with the kilt. Some of these accessories have a specific purpose while others hold purely aesthetic value.
Regardless of each accessory’s purpose, they all play a vital role in completing the authentic Scottish look. Here we will look at all of the important accessories of proper Scottish dress, their significance, and how to wear them.
The Kilt
Before we get into the accessories, the kilt needs a bit of an introduction. As the most glaring garment in traditional Scottish dress, the kilt takes precedence as the most important part of the outfit.
When you wear the kilt, make sure to put the pleats in the back and keep the aprons overlapping in the front. Keep the kilt’s fringe on your right side. Additionally, the kilt should rest above the belly button and extend down to the middle of your knee.
Shirt and Tie
You can pair several varieties of shirts with your kilt.
The Ghillie Shirt
Also called a Highland shirt, this traditional option works well to give a more historic look. It fits loosely and does not require a tie. The leather lace string near the collar helps keep a tight look when tied in a knot. Ghillie shirts come in several base colors, usually white, off-white, grey or black.
Standard Collared Shirts
Of course, regular collared long sleeve shirts pair well with kilts. You can pick any color you choose but be sure to match the shirt color with the color and pattern of your kilt. The kilt sets the stage for the whole outfit, so adapt the shirt color to the kilt and not the other way around.
Bow ties paired with collared shirts create a formal outfit, while straight ties offer a more casual look. Pair your tie color with your shirt and kilt color for a fashionable look.
Victorian Collared Shirts
The most formal option, you can pair a Victorian shirt with a bowtie, cravat or a ruched tie. Weddings and other very formal occasions call for the Victorian shirt to complete the look.
Regardless of the shirt you choose, always tuck your shirt into your kilt in order to wear both garments properly.
Coat and Vest
Much like a standard male formal suit, you can wear a formal jacket along with your kilt. Choose either a three or five buttoned waistcoat to pair with your kilt and shirt. Formal events may call for a vest beneath the jacket, often the same color as the jacket. When wearing a vest, open up your jacket to show off the vest’s stylish buttons.
Belt and Buckle
Kilts call for wider than normal belts. Not every outfit requires a belt and buckle. Only wear a belt and buckle when you leave out a waistcoat. Otherwise you will not see the belt or buckle at all. Loop the belt through the kilt loops on the back and fasten the buckle to the front of the kilt.
Sporran
The sporran might constitute the second most popular aspect of traditional Scottish dress. They act as wallets or pouches in order to compensate for the lack of pockets on a kilt. You wear a sporran around the waist so that it hangs over the kilt in the front.
Sporrans come in three varieties:
Full Dress Sporran
Made from either pewter or silver, these sporrans complete the most formal outfits. They typically include fur embellishments and decorated tassels, for a fully fashionable look. Most sporrans include traditional Scottish designs and symbols to represent their cultural heritage. The full dress sporran can fit many personal belongings due to its relatively larger size.
Semi-Dress Sporran
A little less formal, you can still pair the semi-dress sporran with a formal outfit and take it to a formal event. They include the fur embellishments and sometimes have tassels, and are made out of leather. The flap usually includes Scottish symbols and designs.
Day/Leather Sporran
A more rugged and the least formal sporran, you can actually use these sporrans daily in the most casual settings. With a simple design made completely out of leather, they might do well for a historic, rugged look. They also feature Scottish symbols embroidered into the leather.
Fly Plaid and Brooch
The fly plaid acts as a sash. Wear the fly plaid over the left shoulder and pick one that matches your kilt. Use a brooch to secure the fly plaid onto your shoulder. You can pick a brooch with the design of your choice, and their Scottish design completes an authentic look.
Kilt Pin
Kilt Pins come in a variety of styles. They keep the kilt closed and add an extra layer of style to your outfit.
Flashes
Wear a flash on the calf to keep your hose from falling down. You can choose a flash that matches your kilt perfectly or pick a complementary color.
Hose
You want to wear a high reaching hose that comes to the bottom of the knee and which you can fold over. Pick a color that works well with your kilt and other accessories. They come in several designs.
Sgian Dubh
The sgian dubh is a small dagger designed for concealment in the sock. Including a sgian dubh gives a real authentic historic look. Keep it in your hose with the handle poking out the top.
Brogue
These traditional shoes complete the final outfit. You can get them in both formal and semi-formal designs. You can also replace the brogue with a pair of boots for a more casual affair.
Putting it All Together
When you need a fully authentic Scottish outfit, you can count on Kilt Rental USA to deliver. We offer a full selection of kilts and accessories to give you the outfit to match the occasion. From kilts to brogues, we have everything you need to complete any special occasion. Browse our collection today to find the perfect Scottish outfit for any occasion.
