Men have worn kilts for centuries in Scotland, in fact kilts were made for men initially. The kilts have faced multiple transformations with time. Even the part of Scottish clothing we wear today is quite different from the traditional ones. This discussion aims to describe the evolution of kilts from the traditional to the modern ones. Moreover, it will shed some light on the difference between conventional and latest kilts that are common today.
Kilts and Their Importance in Scottish Heritage
Before discussing men’s kilts’ evolution, let us tell you a little about a kilt and its importance in Scotland. It is a part of traditional Scottish attire that covers the lower part of the body to the knees. They are usually made with tartan, a fabric having horizontal and vertical lines creating unique patterns.
This is all about kilts and the fabric used to make them. So, why are kilts important in Scottish heritage? Kilts are the traditional part of Scottish attire. The fabric used to make this clothing represents Scottish clans, and the Scots have registered their name on the list of culture-oriented people from the first day. They wear tartan patterns that their ancestors wore to reveal their Scottish identity and admire the forefathers.
Evolution of Traditional Kilts
Now that you know a kilt and why they are valuable among the Scots. They witnessed different aesthetics as well as situations to become what they are today. So, let’s move ahead to see how their appearances and features revolutionized with time.
Linen Croich
Some people consider the Great Kilt the first type of kilt, while the majority considers it a misconception. The first kilt worn by Scots in the 16th century was Linen Croich. It was made with a long piece of cloth draped over the shoulder and fastened with the waistband. Linen Croich had pleats on the front while today’s kilts are back-pleated. It was worn by warriors because flexibility was their primary battle need. This kilt type evolved and became practical, named “Great Kilt.”
The Great Kilts
Linen Croich transformed into the great kilt, also known as belted plaid. This kilt was used for practical purposes as it helped people to survive in Scotland’s harsh weather. It was also made with a long tartan garment. The extra part of clothing was worn as a blanket in winter to maintain warmth. They also had pleats on the front for flexible movement.
Ancient Kilts
Great kilts became modern kilts in the 18th century. Their length was reduced, and they entered the fashion world. They became shorter than the great kilts, and their pleats moved to the backside. Moreover, different attachments were added. This century was proven revolutionary for Scottish attire because of two primary events: Highland Clearances and the Dress Act. Let’s have an overview of these events and their impact on kilts.
Highland Clearances
Highland clearances initiated in the 1760s and ended in the middle of the next century. Many Scots were forcefully removed from the lands. They had no option but to leave their country and emigrate to other states. This era became a source to introduce kilts to different parts of the world. Today, kilts are famous in all countries that asylum Scots then.
Dress Act 1746
In the 18th century, kilts had harsh times following the 1746 Dress Act. This act outlawed traditional Highland attire to end the rebellion. However, this ban lasted for a short time. Instead of being drowned, the significance of kilts arose.
Queen Victoria’s reign was a kilt-friendly era. Kilts and tartan patterns were assigned to different families based on their ancestors. Moreover, the kilts became a military uniform during Queen Elizabeth’s governance.
Different Types of Modern Kilts
Kilts became more common in the 20th century. They became popular among women as well, rather than being men’s kilts. Different designs were introduced in this century. Then, the 21st century reformed kilts the most. Now, kilts have transcended the clothing (tartan) boundaries, and industries are making them with different fabrics, including leather, drill jeans, etc. Moreover, they are available in various types today!
Utility Kilts
Utility kilts are the most common ones in this era. They cover different aspects of wearing a kilt, and they are best for admiring Scottish heritage. Utility kilts have pockets on both sides for utility and are available in different designs, making them suitable for different formal occasions like Highland games, wedding ceremonies, etc.
Hybrid Kilts
Hybrid kilts are also very popular among Scots. They are suitable for people desiring utility with tartan. Hybrid kilts are the result of combining two fabrics making them more appealing.
Leather Kilts
Leather kilts are the most loved type. They are beautiful, attractive, and suitable for different occasions. People who want to show their prominence over others typically dress these kilts.
Tactical Kilts
Another famous type popular among people today is the tactical kilt. These kilts are available in different styles and variations, including Multicam kilts and battle kilts. Made with drill jeans, tactical kilts are suitable in every weather and event.
Difference Between Great Kilts and Modern Kilts
The evolution of men’s kilts must be clear to you now. It’s time to answer a query that people usually make about the differences between ancient and latest kilts. If we review the information, we will find that traditional kilts are more extensive than modern ones. Traditional kilts had pleats on front, while the kilts today have pleats on the back. Similarly, the fabric varies; kilts were made with tartan initially, while different fabrics like drill jeans and leather are used to make kilts today. Most importantly, today’s clothing has hardware since the ancient kilts were simple.
Conclusion
Kilts were introduced in the 16th century and are transformed into multiple variations. The journey of kilts starts with Linen Croich and moves to the different types available today. Meanwhile, mishaps like Highland clearances and dress acts occurred but made them more common instead of lowering their significance. Traditional and modern kilts are different, but their primary purpose is the same: comfort, flexible movement, and most importantly heritage admiration. Some common types of today’s kilts are utility kilts, leather kilts, tactical kilts, etc.
OTS News on Social Media