A tartan kilt is a knee-length, skirt-like garment traditionally worn by men in Scotland. It’s made of wool and features a tartan pattern—a crisscrossed design of horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors, each unique to a specific clan, region, or military regiment.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Key Features:
- Fabric: Usually wool.
- Design: Tartan (plaid) patterns, which are symbolic and often represent a family or clan.
- Structure: Flat in the front, pleated in the back.
- Length: Typically reaches the knees.
Cultural Significance:
- Worn at formal occasions (like weddings or funerals), Highland games, and by pipe bands.
- Symbol of Scottish heritage and national pride.
- Some modern kilts are adapted for casual or utility use, made from non-traditional materials.
Accessories (often worn with a formal kilt):
- Sporran: Pouch worn at the front.
- Sgian-dubh: Small knife tucked into the sock.
- Kilt hose: Long socks.
- Ghillie brogues: Laced shoes.
- Belt and buckle, jacket, and sometimes a plaid (shoulder sash).
