The answer to this question is a bit more nuanced than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’! Generally speaking, Scots do not wear underwear beneath their kilts, as it is traditionally viewed as unnecessary. However, many Scots today are choosing to wear underwear beneath their kilts for practical or personal reasons.
Some people wearing kilts in more physical activities, such as dancing or sports, may wear undergarments for extra support. Others may feel more comfortable wearing something beneath their kilts. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear underwear under a kilt is up to the individual.
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What is a 7 yard kilt?
A 7 yard kilt is a traditional form of clothing associated with Scotland, Ireland and other Celtic cultures. It is essentially a large length of tartan cloth, typically of wool or tweed, which is pleated, then draped around the wearer’s waist and fastened with a belt.
The length of the kilt is determined by the number of “yards” of material it is made with, with the maximum number being 8 yards. A 7 yard kilt is the most popular version and is typically seen as the classic style.
It consists of seven yards of tartan cloth and includes enough fabric to cover the waist, stomach, hips and upper thighs of the wearer. In comparison, a 5 yard kilt only covers the waist, stomach and upper thighs, while an 8 yard kilt is more of a wrapskirt, designed to look like a skirt when on.
How many yards is a proper kilt?
The typical length for a kilt is 24 yards of wool, although a true kilt will require anywhere from 10-24 yards of fabric to create, depending on the length, fit, and number of pleats in the kilt. The exact amount of fabric used is also determined by the tartan, or pattern, chosen for the kilt.
A full 6-yard kilt is made of 28-30 yards of tartan wool, and each additional yard adds an additional 2-3 yards. The lighter the tartan and the sharper the pleats, the more fabric is required.
What’s the difference between a 5 yard and 8 yard kilt?
The main difference between a five-yard and an eight-yard kilt is in the amount of fabric used, and ultimately, the degree of fullness and opulence of the finished look. Five-yard kilts are generally made with five yards of tartan fabric, while eight-yard kilts are constructed with eight yards of the same fabric.
The extra fabric used in an eight-yard kilt allows for more pleats and more bulk, creating a fuller, more voluminous style. Five-yard kilts, because they use less fabric, typically have a more restrained or modest look.
Eight-yard kilts are usually heavier than five-yard kilts, though not to the extent some might think, since a portion of the extra fabric is incorporated into the pleats. Kilts also tend to weigh differently depending on the type of fabric and design of the kilt, but eight-yard kilts usually weigh a bit more than their five-yard counterparts.
The type of kilt a person chooses is largely a matter of personal preference, with the heavy weight and fullness of the eight-yard kilt often being preferred for traditional Highland Games, balls, weddings, and other formal occasions.
What does the yard mean in a kilt?
The yard of a kilt is the length of the kilt minus the waistband and pleats. It is usually around 18 inches, although there are variations depending on the style and size. Generally speaking, it is the longest part of the kilt and is responsible for the majority of what is visible when the kilt is fully worn.
It is important for the yard to fit correctly to ensure the rest of the kilt is comfortable and well-proportioned to the wearer. If the yard is too long or too short, the kilt can feel too tight or too loose, respectively.
Therefore, it is important to take measurements and order from a retailer such as a kilt maker or tailor to ensure the correct fit.
Are kilts more Scottish or Irish?
Kilts are most commonly associated with Scotland, and many people consider them to be more of a Scottish item of clothing. It is true that kilts can be worn as a traditional garment in Ireland, as well as Scotland.
However, the kilt is believed to have been created by members of the Scottish clans in the 16th century, lead by Thomas Rawlinson, who had learned its use while working in the Scottish Highlands. The kilt is seen as an integral part of the Scottish national identity, and traditionally is seen to be worn with the tartan fabric unique to the wearer’s family or clan.
The kilt is an iconic symbol of Scotland and widely used in Highland culture and customs. It is also popular in other parts of the British Isles, including Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Many Irish people also wear a kilt or have one in their family. The Irish kilt is almost identical to the Scottish kilt such as its formal variation, the saffron kilt, which is common across the Isles.
The difference between the two is simply down to the tartan fabric and pattern chosen.
Overall, the kilt is more associated with Scotland due to its long history and deep connection to Highland culture and traditions.
What is the correct length for a kilt?
Typically, kilts are tailored to the individual’s measurements. Using a cloth tape measure, you can measure your waist size, as well as your desired Kilt length, before buying a Kilt. The waist size should be taken high on the natural waistline, above your hips.
For the traditional kilt length, start the measure at the middle of the back of the neck, run it over the left shoulder on to the right hip, and poof slightly around the front of the right hip before ending the measure at mid-knee.
For a more contemporary, fashion length kilt, the same measurements are used, with the kilt falling just above the knee.
What is a female kilt called?
A female kilt is a traditionally designed garment more commonly known as a skirt. Depending on its design and length, it can be called a variety of different names. Historically, a female kilt is called a “fyrenne” or a “Philippa” and is usually pleated and floor length.
More recently, female kilts have become pleated, ornately designed garments made of tartan that are no longer traditionally associated with Scotland but have been adopted by fashionable wear around the world.
These skirts are often referred to as “philander”, “skirts of state”, or “sarletts”. The length of the skirt varies, but mid-calf to knee length is common. Female kilts are typically worn with a short, tailored jacket or with another garment like a sleeved or sleeveless vest.
To give the female kilt a modern spin, occasions like proms and weddings call for even more ornate styles featuring an embellished waistband and stiff fabric.
Are there female kilts?
Yes, there are female kilts. The traditional Scottish kilt is made of wool and is traditionally worn by men. However, in recent years, more and more people have embraced the idea of female kilts. Female kilts have the same look and construction as traditional kilts, but may feature brighter colors and different designs to appeal to a more feminine look and feel.
These kilts are designed to be more form-fitting, to fit the waist, hips, and torso of the woman. Some styles feature fringed hems and decorative tassels or studded details. There are also female versions of traditional Highland wear, such as plaid skirts, embroidered sashes, and tailored jackets.
Female kilts are becoming increasingly popular, and you can find them in a variety of styles and fabrics.
How does a woman wear a tartan?
A woman can wear tartan in many different ways, depending on the type of look she wants to achieve. For a classic and traditional look, women can wear tartan in the form of a kilt or a long skirt. The traditional way to wear a tartan kilt is to style it with a bulky sweater or a shirt and a shawl or wrap.
Knee-high or calf-length leather boots and a statement neck-piece are also essential accessories to highlight the tartan look. For a more modern look, women can opt for a tartan plaid midi skirt and pair it with a white knit top and a strong-shouldered leather or denim jacket.
Tartan shirts, trousers, and coats are also great pieces to wear to show off that traditional look with a modern twist. In the colder months, a blanket or tartan scarf can work wonders to complete the look.
What are the Scottish skirts called?
The traditional Scottish skirt is known as a kilt. Kilts are made of a heavy fabric (often wool) and feature a tartan or plaid pattern with a pleated construction. They generally reach mid-calf length and are secured by a kilt pin and a belt or sash tied in a large bow at the side or back.
As a versatile garment, kilts may be worn for both formal and casual occasions. Depending on the occasion, additional items of Scottish Highland Dress—such as a sporran, a jacket, or a belt—may also be worn.
What do girls wear instead of kilts?
Most girls prefer to wear trousers or skirts instead of kilts. Trousers can be just as fashionable as kilts and come in a variety of styles and fabrics, from casual jeans to tailored trousers in seasonal patterns or colours.
Skirts are also a popular style for girls, and can come in many different silhouettes, from mini-skirts to long maxi styles. Both types of garments can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and are usually more comfortable for everyday wear than kilts.
In addition to these options, girls may also choose to wear dresses or jumpsuits, depending on their own personal style.
Can I wear my wife’s tartan?
Generally speaking, it is not advisable to wear a tartan belonging to your spouse without their permission. Tartan is traditionally a distinctly personal item and the colors and pattern of a person’s tartan will relate to their family, clan, or heritage.
Wearing someone else’s tartan can be viewed as a sign of disrespect to the person, their family, and the tradition in general. If you’d like to wear a tartan in honor of your spouse, it is typically suggested that you search for a tartan that is related to their surname and represents a clan, family, or organization close to them.
Alternatively, you could buy a tartan that is similar to the colors of your partner’s tartan and wear it as a tribute to them. Ultimately, it is best to seek permission first and foremost when considering wearing someone else’s tartan.
Do girls wear tartan?
Yes, girls (and boys!) can wear tartan. The tartan pattern is traditionally associated with Scotland and is identified with certain Scottish clans, but anyone can sport the colorful fabric. Here in the United States, we often see tartan skirts worn as part of school uniforms, but tartan can also be used to make garments such as trousers, trousers, shorts, jackets, and coats.
Additionally, tartan accessories such as scarves, ties, and handbags can be a great way to add some plaid to your wardrobe. For a more subtle approach, tartan-patterned accessories such as iPhone cases and laptop covers are also available.
Girls and boys of all ages can embrace the tartan trend and make a statement!.
Can you wear tartan if I’m not Scottish?
Yes, you can definitely wear tartan if you’re not Scottish. Tartan is widely recognized across the world as a representation of Scotland and its culture, but the beautiful patterned fabric is not exclusive to the Scottish people.
If the colors and designs of tartan speak to you, then you’re more than welcome to wear them. You might even find yourself embracing the history and culture behind the colors and patterns. Some fashion designers and retailers offer tartan patterns with meaningful stories and tales behind them, so if you want to, you can find the right tartan for you.
