When to Wear the Tartan and Highland Dress

A kilt or other tartan garment is something that can be worn on special occasions or events year round.  One person said, "Real Celtic men wear a kilt whenever they want to - as long as they have the legs for it."  The tartan or kilt is symbolic of Scottish heritage, and more recently Irish heritage, recognized throughout the world as a sign of Celtic pride.  In order to understand when to wear the tartan or highland dress it is important to first understand what it is.

History

A tartan is a specific design, or color pattern, that is typically the same when viewed from any direction.  Families or clans had specific patterns, that when worn, told other people what clan you belonged to.  Women of the village would take great pride in designing a particular pattern using material and colors from the area.  Men would in turn, proudly wear their tartan when going out to hunt.  Often a woman would incorporate any remaining fabric into a dress or shawl for herself.  In present day you can wear the tartan assigned to your clan or select from one of the many tartans designed for places, organizations or the military. 

Men and boys have been wearing kilts since the 16th century in the Scottish Highlands.  Since the 19th century it has been more widely associated with Celtic and Gaelic traditions.

When to Wear the Kilt:

• Formal Occasions. Many men will wear a kilt on their wedding day, formal balls in the place of a tuxedo, for their anniversary, or special parties such as a Burns' Supper.  If a woman is wearing a gown or dressy cocktail attire a man can wear his kilt.
• Highland Games.  The traditional Highland Games are a site to behold. Nothing is more manly than doing a caber toss in your clan's kilt.
• Sporting Events.  Going to an football game?  Why not wear your kilt and promote your Celtic heritage.
• Irish Festivals.  Events like the Annapolis Irish Festival bring people of Celtic roots together for lively music, fantastic food, and entertainment.  Wear your kilt and join the party.  
• Lacrosse.  Yes, many lacrosse players are now wearing kilts.  The modern version of a kilt is worn in many sports.
• Political Gatherings.  Kilts are a symbol of national pride and as such many people will wear them to political events as a statement of pride and encouragement for politicians to remember where they came from.
• Military.  Within the Irish, Scottish, and British military specific units will wear a kilt.  In the US kilts can be seen in military bands, including the Naval Acadamy's pipe and drum band. Specific tartans are available for the US Military.
• Dances.  Ditch the tuxedo or suit and opt for a kilt instead.  They are more fun and a great way to promote your heritage.  
• Saint Patrick's Day.  If you are going out on the town why not do it in style?  Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day by proudly wearing your kilt.

What many people don't know is that a kilt has accessories and can be customized throughout your life time.  Just because you already own a kilt doesn't mean you can't have fun changing the look or style.  Simply purchase a new belt, buckle, kilt pin, or sgian dubh to change the look.  If you are interested in wearing a kilt but not ready to purchase one you can rent it from Irish Traditions.  We rent and sell kilts so that you can be ready for any occasion.

In going with the old joke many men also find a kilt more comfortable.  After all... "Nothing is worn under the kilt Madam - it's all in perfect working order!"