If you’re planning to wear a kilt and want to get it right, you’re probably asking: What actually goes into a full kilt outfit? A kilt isn’t just a skirt with a tartan pattern—it’s a traditional ensemble with multiple parts, each serving a purpose and adding to the look.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s included in a complete kilt outfit, whether you’re dressing for a wedding, a formal event, or Highland games.
1. The Kilt
Let’s start with the star of the show. The kilt is made from wool tartan, often 8 yards of fabric, pleated at the back and flat in the front. It’s worn high on the waist, not at the hips like modern trousers.
You’ll choose your kilt based on:
- Clan or family tartan
- District or universal tartan
- Event type (formal, casual, etc.)
2. Kilt Belt and Buckle
While the kilt stays up with its built-in straps, a broad leather belt with an ornate buckle adds structure and style—especially with a Prince Charlie jacket. It’s not always worn, but for formal outfits, it’s a sharp addition.
3. Sporran
This is the pouch that hangs at the front of the kilt. Since kilts don’t have pockets, the sporran acts as your storage—wallet, phone, keys, all go in here.
There are different types:
- Day sporran (simple leather)
- Dress sporran (fur or ornate metal)
- Semi-dress sporran (a mix of the two)
It’s worn on a chain or strap that sits around the waist and hangs just below the belt buckle.
4. Kilt Hose and Flashes
Kilt hose are long socks that come up to just below the knee. They’re usually white, off-white, or charcoal, depending on the occasion.
Flashes are the strips of fabric that hang from the garter and match the tartan or outfit. They peek out from the side of the sock and help keep the hose in place.
5. Ghillie Brogues (Shoes)
These are traditional Scottish shoes with long laces that crisscross around the ankles and tie just below the calf. No tongue on the shoe, and the laces are designed to keep them secure even in muddy Highland terrain.
Modern alternatives like dress shoes or boots are sometimes used for casual outfits, but for full traditional wear, ghillie brogues are the go-to.
6. Shirt and Tie
Underneath everything is a clean dress shirt, often white or black. You’ll pair it with a:
- Ruched tie or cravat for very formal outfits
- Traditional necktie for semi-formal wear
- Open collar for relaxed, casual settings
7. Jacket and Waistcoat (Optional but Common)
There are a few jacket styles depending on formality:
- Prince Charlie Jacket: Formal evening wear, worn with a waistcoat and bow tie or cravat.
- Argyle Jacket: Versatile and semi-formal, good for weddings, ceilidhs, or dinners.
- Tweed Jacket: More casual or rustic, great for day events or Highland sports.
The waistcoat (vest) is usually worn under the jacket, matching in style and fabric.
8. Kilt Pin
This is a small decorative pin worn on the lower right corner of the front apron of the kilt. It adds weight so the apron doesn’t flap in the wind, but it’s mostly decorative today. Designs range from clan crests to swords or Celtic knots.
9. Sgian Dubh (Optional)
Pronounced “skeen doo,” this is a small traditional knife tucked into the top of the right kilt hose. It’s symbolic today (and often blunt or ornamental), but historically it was used as a utility blade.
If you’re flying or attending a high-security event, leave this one out—or go for a decorative sgian dubh with no blade.
Complete Outfit Checklist
Here’s a quick list for reference:
✅ Kilt
✅ Sporran (and chain)
✅ Kilt belt + buckle
✅ Kilt hose (socks)
✅ Flashes
✅ Ghillie brogues (shoes)
✅ Shirt
✅ Tie or cravat
✅ Jacket and waistcoat (optional, depending on formality)
✅ Kilt pin
✅ Sgian dubh (optional)
Wearing a full kilt outfit is about more than just tradition—it’s about attention to detail, pride in heritage, and showing up sharp. You don’t need every piece for every occasion, but if you’re going all in, this guide covers it all.
