The History of the Kilt

Before the year 1782 the Scottish kilt was only worn for military purposes. It was also only worn in the highland regions of Scotland. However, in the year 1782 the kilt became a widespread form of attire all over Scotland.

When kilts were first made they were very basic in design. It basically consisted of a large plaid piece of material about 2 yards wide, and 4 - 6 yards long. This is known as the "great kilt" The material was plaited in the middle, the garment was then folded around the wearer, and supported with a leather belt. The bottom half of the kilt could be removed to make it shorter and more manageable to work with. There was then excess material that was fastened around one shoulder with a large brooch. The kilt had many advantages, it provided easy movement, and was also warm keeping the harsh highland cold weather at bay. At the time the wool for the kilt was very tightly woven thus proving to be very waterproof. Tweed jackets and vests were also worn in conjunction with the kilt. The word kilt is a Scottish word meaning to tuck up the clothes around the body, or can also mean pleated.

The sporran, which is like a purse, was made for convenience reasons. During the day a leather sporran would be worn, as opposed to night time where light and dark colored skins would be worn. The skins were usually from badgers or seals. Clan - plant badges were worn on bonnets. These badges differed in color so that the various clans knew who they were upon meeting. Before going into a battle the kilt would be removed, and what was classed as the war shirt was worn.

The "small kilt" or "walking Kilt" came about in the 18th century. Thomas Rawlinson opened a charcoal production facility in the Highlands of Scotland in the early 1700's. It is thought that he found the "great kilt" was not helpful attire for his workers. He took the kilt to a tailor who then proceeded to cut the garment in half. Therefore the "small kilt" was invented.

In 1746 the government of King George II outlawed the use of Highland dress with the exception of military use. He tried to suppress Scottish culture, the ban remained in place for 35 years. However, it became a fashion statement for those who wished to go against the ban during these years. The ban was lifted in 1782, at this point the Highlanders and Lowlanders sought to re-capture the cultural wearing of kilts. This was also the time when tartan and the different colors worn became identifiable with the various different clans. Can we answer the age old question "What does a Scotsman wear under his kilt?'. Well, the truth is if you are a true Scot you are hardy enough to wear nothing under your kilt, although a lot of men do wear under garments for practical reasons.