For a Scottish man, a kilt is the high point of the male wardrobe. Men wear kilts for all kinds of events – from weddings to festivals. Even though men of Scottish descent usually wear kilts, wearing one can be difficult for some people.
This becomes even more difficult when putting together your outfit for an event or occasion. So what should you do if you want to make sure you have the correct accessories for your kilt?
This article was written to help you with choosing the right accessories for your kilt, as well as when to pair them for the right occasion. Be sure to read this through to the end. Let's get started!
Accessories for a Kilt
Belt
Kilts are usually worn with suspenders. If you don’t want to wear suspenders, you should definitely consider wearing a belt.
A belt is a great way to add shape and balance to your kilt. It also helps keep everything from moving around and getting messed up. A wide belt with a colored buckle or a plain one with a tartan buckle is an absolute must have for a kilt.
Belts can be tricky, so wear a thin one if possible. If you need a wider belt, a bright-colored one is usually the right choice.
If you have to go against tradition and wear a dark-colored belt, then opt for one with a silver buckle to break up the monotony.
Kilt Pin
Another thing that is important to remember is the kilt pin. This is a piece of jewelry that you will always wear with your kilt, regardless of your outfit.
Sgian Dubh
Sgian-Dubh is the official name for the small knife used to cut the cloth in a kilted fashion. The Scotch Wearer’s knife is hand made and very sharp.
These days it is used mostly as an accessory or to remove bits of stray fabric when needed. They will immediately remind you of a pocket knife and make a very nice accessory for the kilt.
Ties and Bow Ties
First up, ties and bow ties are very tricky accessories. Most people don't realize that not all kilts have ties or bow ties. Although they are common features for kilts, they are not a must have feature.
In fact, not all kilts have them at all. For the most part, you are just fine with going without these accessories. A kilt without ties and bow ties can make you look especially dashing.
You can try wearing a regular tie with your kilt, and tying the knot at the front instead of tying a bow tie. This will give you the look of having a bow tie but without having it tied at the front.
Shoes
The shoes you wear with a kilt can really make the outfit. If you want to go for something that is lightweight, or something that will help keep you warm, you can wear athletic shoes or any other type of shoes that will allow you to wear a kilted look.
If you are a type of man who likes to wear heels, even then you can easily switch to a pair of black loafers or a pair of black moccasins, depending on the outfit you are going for.
You can also go with sandals. However, if you are looking for something that can look more like what you would typically wear, you can wear sandals in any color or pattern, as well as with or without socks.
Brooch/Crest Pin
A brooch is a small pin that is fixed onto a brooch-style brooch and can either be given as a gift or placed onto your kilt. These brooches are usually white or pastel-coloured, and they are often meant to be pinned to a shirt to hold your tie or shirt up or tied to your waistband.
Some brooches are meant to be worn on men's kilts and are used to decorate the kilt. Even though this accessory is less common, it is still popular.
There are many things that you can do with a brooch, and this includes wearing it as a brooch or pin or adding it to a string of other brooches, such as a chain, or bracelet.
Socks/Tights
When it comes to socks, they need to match your kilt (no need for a matching pair). Kilt socks are best, and they should also match the colour of the kilt.
You can get kilted socks at just about any store these days and a good pair is quite economical. If you want something fancier, make sure the kilt is black, and you can wear matching socks with it.
Shirt
The first thing to note is that the shirt you choose to wear with your kilt needs to be appropriate to the type of event you are attending.
For example, if you are going to a wedding and you are attending a traditional service, a white or long sleeve shirt would not be appropriate, as white is not allowed.
It is not uncommon for people to wear a shirt under a kilt or add a t-shirt over it.
Vest
When wearing a kilt, the most important accessory you can have is a vest. It will also be the most comfortable and functional piece of clothing you can wear with a kilt.
There are two varieties of vest to choose from: short-sleeved or long-sleeved. Some options you can have include:
Semi-Formal Khaki:
This option would be good if you're planning on being at a more formal function. It is a lightweight, cotton/cashmere blend. This option would be good if you're planning on being at a more formal function. It is a lightweight, cotton/cashmere blend.
Brogues or boots:
These look great with a light-colored kilt and would be perfect if you're going to be at an outdoor wedding or festival. They are ideal for flat-soled footwear.
Jacket/Coat
When the occasion calls for a warm jacket or coat, you should definitely wear it, as it provides protection from the elements.
However, if you want to wear a kilt with your jacket or coat, it is crucial that you wear kilts that match. It should not be worn with any other kind of clothing, such as shorts or a t-shirt.
Many men (even me) buy kilts in short and/or sleeveless. However, that should be avoided if you want to wear it for an occasion.
If you have a kilt with a short skirt, you may not have a full coverage jacket to cover it. If you plan on wearing a kilt and the weather is warmer, go for a knit or a long-sleeved shirt, even though you may still look like a Highland Macbeth.
Conclusion
And there you have it. Thanks for reading this article about what accessories to wear with a kilt to the end, we really appreciate it. Since 1998 Kilt Rental USA has been helping customers get their kilts on right.
By now you know the right accessories to wear with your kilt. If you have any questions or need kilts or any other accessories, contact Kiltrentalusa today!
