A kilt is definitely an investment piece, however it is very versatile and stylish. Today, kilts can be worn in whatever way you wish and it is acceptable if you decide not to stick with the traditional highland wear look. Whether you are still deciding on the type of kilt you want or looking to make the most out of your current kilt and wear it to more than the occasional formal event. We have provided inspiration on how to adapt your outfit it to suit your personal style and create a more casual look. Celebrate Scottish culture with your kilt for a smart but everyday look that still honours your heritage.

When to Wear a Casual Kilt

A celebration which is not quite formal would be the ideal opportunity to wear your kilt in a more casual manner, this may include social gatherings, stag nights, sporting events, outdoor festivals, and highland games. Here in the Scottish Borders, a casual kilt outfit could be sported to the upcoming local Rugby 7s.

Kilts create a sophisticated and fashionable appearance yet are simple and comfortable to wear, only applying little pressure to the body which should feel like a cuddle around your navel. Our Lochcarron kilts perfect to wear in a more relaxed everyday manner. We offer a made-to-measure kilt making service to ensure you find the style of kilt that is right for you.

Kilt Weights

At Lochcarron of Scotland we offer three different fabric weights to choose from for your kilt:

Our kilt weights | Lightweight Reiver Tartan (left) | Mediumweight Braeriach Tartan (centre) | Heavyweight Strome Tartan (right)

For a contemporary, casual kilt look, we would recommend our 100% new pure wool Lightweight Reiver Kilts. This machine sewn traditional 5-yard kilt makes a perfect casual approach to traditional Scottish Highland dress and ideal for warmer climates.

Our 8-yard Braeriach Kilt, made in 100% new pure wool, is our mediumweight fabric option, suitable for warmer climates but still achieves traditional Scottish Dress and made using traditional kilt making techniques.

The heavyweight kilt we offer is our 100% Scottish wool 8-yard Strome Kilt. This fabric makes the ideal kilting cloth, woven in the traditional weight to achieve authentic Scottish Dress. These kilts are crafted using truly respected and classic craftsmanship, hand sewn by highly skilled kiltmakers.

Made-to-Measure Kilt Making | Galbraith Ancient Heavyweight Tartan

Although our traditional heavier weight kilts – Braeriach and Strome - are more suitable for formal occasions, they can be worn in a more casual setting depending on how they are styled. Traditional woollen kilts can feel heavy for everyday occasions but can still be incorporated into a casual outfit after your special event.

Benefits of a Wool Kilt.

Wool a versatile fibre that should keep you comfortable while wearing your kilt. Wool is a far more efficient fibre than other natural and man-made fibres. It is natural, sustainable, renewable, and once no longer require will naturally biodegrade.

Wool is a very durable fibre making our kilts strong and long lasting, designed to last at least a generation. Wool products are easy to care for. They require less washing, maintains shape and colourfastness, efficient in absorbing sweat, locking odour molecules and its waxy coating makes it relatively stain resistant.

Another desirable quality of wool is that it is a hygroscopic fibre. This means that as the moisture in surrounding atmosphere rises and falls the structure of the fibre enables it to absorb and release water vapour, either from air or wearer’s perspiration. It is recognised as one of the most effective forms of all-weather protection. Due to these characteristics, woollen kilts are suitable changing weather conditions, breathable and weather resistant. It should keep the warmth in cold out, as well as keeping you cool in warm surroundings. Wool constantly reacting to changes in body temperature, which helps maintain the wearer’s comfort in their kilt in cold and warm weather. Have a look at The Campaign for Wool's Website to learn more about the benefits of wool.

How to Style your Casual Kilt Outfit

To wear your kilt casually, pair with a jumper, during the colder weather or style with a simple button-down shirt without a tie or a t-shirt during the warmer seasons. Select colours that compliment your kilt and create a fashionable look.

Your kilt hose as normal, with or without flashes depending on your style, or worn loosely worn at the shins for a casual appearance. Our kilt socks are made from a wool mix with a ribbed decoration and a diamond design at the cuff top. For footwear, choose simple shoes or boots will maintain a relaxed appearance, for a slightly dressier look finish your outfit with a pair of brogue shoes.

Accessorise

To maintain casual kilt attire, stick with simple highland wear accessories. A kilt pin would make a good addition to your outfit and would help to weigh your kilt down or why not include a simple kilt belt in your outfit.

To finish off your casual look, incorporate a day sporran. These pouches hang at the front of your kilt with a chain and are practical for carrying your items during daytime events. Our day sporrans are made completely from leather including subtle embossed details on the front featuring tassels, the perfect choice for a more casual kilt outfit. If the occasion is slightly more formal a semi dress sporran could be worn instead. Likewise, wearing a jacket and/or tie would create a more formal appearance.

Explore our day sporrans | Cairn Day Sporran (left), Tinto Day Sporran (centre), Storr Day Sporran (right)

Depending on the occasion, if you are attending an outdoor event in the autumn or winter months, consider adding a tartan scarf to complete your casual look.

Although wearing a kilt makes a statement, it can also be adapted to create a casual look that is an equally enjoyable and stylish alternative to the traditional kilt outfit. We hope our article provided you with some ideas for how you can wear your kilt after that special event and make the most of this traditional, elegant piece of Scottish dress.