Kilt Style

Introduction To Kilt Style

© 2008 Floyd Harrison, Lorton Valley Star Communications About

Off Kilter

Why should a guy want to be at the forefront of this trend? Consider for yourself, It’s about the individual. Possible Reason #

2. It gets attention from the girls who like it.

MUG from another land

(NOTE some photos are place-holders which must be replaced or credited before this site goes public)

The original Kilt is a men's garment developed 500 years ago by the Scottish Highlanders. It was essentially a heavy wool blanket hand pleated and belted around the waist with the extra length draped over or around the shoulders and pinned. It was worn over a simple shirt of Irish origin called the Leina (lay’-na). The Highland Dress Proscription Act of 1746, designed to punish the clans and destroy their identities and economic stuctures, was repealed in 1782 after thirty six years in law. At that time it became the modern tailored, strapped on, formal dress, varied Tartan with many sharply pressed pleats of black tie formal and military dress that it is today. It is a visible symbol of Scottish Nation Pride which is held in serious regard if they don’t actually own one. The modern tailored dress Kilt has only the formal, semiformal, and day wear style definitions as can be seen on the web sites of the UK tailors. As such, it has been adopted in the Celtic lands and national and regional Tartan plaids can be found for all of them. It’s not only the Scottish clans who can claim the Kilt.

The authentic item is great highland hiking garb but it’s a bit hot and heavy for lowlanders in temperate climates and climate controlled work environments so light weight and alternative fabric versions have evolved. Also: a guy could wear the formal dress outfit as St. Patrick’s Day costume to the local pub but otherwise, it’s too dressy for every day like wearing a Tux to the office. It’s a bit silly. This site attempts to define the style and use of the day wear & casual versions which are growing in popularity.