Non-Scots to Wear Kilt
“Scottish people” or “Scots” is used to refer to anyone whose linguistic, cultural, family ancestors are from Scotland. Kilts are known as the National Dress of Scotland which is a highly recognized form of dress. It has deep cultural and historical roots in the country of Scotland and it is a sacred symbol of patriotism and honour for a true Scotsman. The word “kilt” means pleated, and refers to clothing that’s tucked up and round the body for men. Scots have a reputation for which they are proud of their identity, whether at home or abroad. It has a very long tradition as a part of Celtic culture and is still worn in many parts of the world. But the question arises, Is it offensive for non-scots to wear Kilts?
Is It Offensive For Non-Scots to Wear Kilts?
Thinking of Scots, many of us don’t wear kilts that they could not love it. Well, they might be pleased if you wear kilts. Having said that, there are certain belongings you got to consider before wearing a kilt if you are doing not have any connection to Scotland. One thing to be aware in Scotland is the tartan- the Plaid Pattern in the fabric plays a role in heraldry. Scottish and Irish families often have a tartan pattern that is considered to be theirs. If someone from one of those families were to see you wearing their tartan, they may take offence, especially if you’re a stranger and not a Scot or Irishman at all. Basically, Tartans were used to identify the clan affiliation of the person wearing it.
How to Wear a Kilt?
There is no problem for non-Scots to wear a kilt if they are wearing it for a legitimate reason. Such reasons would include any event – a wedding or some parties but be careful with how you wear it. The Kilt is a flexible outfit made of heavy wool that anyone can wear both formally and informally. The Shirt and the Jacket or Waistcoat should go on first then the Kilt Hose (Socks) & Flashes. Next, the kilt with the Kilt Pin attached & a Tie followed by the Sporran and finally the Shoes.
Wearing a Kilt Rules
Scottish tradition is all about welcoming outsiders into our community with pride. True Scots refers to the men who wear nothing beneath kilts. Well, it seems a myth as it is highly impractical to wear nothing under a kilt in cold weather. If you are wearing a kilt for the first time then don’t forget to wear something under it. Sit, stand, and walk to make yourself comfortable with this adorable garment. Make sure that the pleats are flat so you can sweep your hand over the back of the tilt after standing up to ensure that pleats of the kilt are flat. Your kilt must be ironed. It’s just not a piece of clothing you are going to wear in fact it’s the symbol of a nation. Remember to keep your legs closed when you’re wearing a kilt and to be modest. That rule applies to Scots, too!
The Kilt Style
It is also generally considered to be poor taste to wear a Scottish or Irish Military Kilt if you are not a service member or veteran or to wear an organization’s tartan if you are not a member. If you want to steer clear of tartans entirely, there are still many other types of kilts that you can choose from. Contemporary Kilt , Utility Kilt and Hybrid Kilts are all great choices for guys who aren’t Scots.
The Occasion
If you’re at a Highland Games, a Celtic or Scottish festival or a wedding where the gentlemen will be wearing kilts, you can easily sport a kilt without offending anyone however, if you’re attending a Halloween party or a fancy dress party, someone who is Scottish might find a kilt worn as a costume to be offensive and disrespectful of their heritage. Wearing a kilt every day for work or to a club will typically not be construed as offensive.
Can You Wear a Kilt If You Are not a Scottish..?
In my brief travel experience to Sialkot (Pakistan) last year, I found that the Scottish identity factor is very obvious even in Pakistan which was very shocking for me that no wonder from which region you belong to, you always end up liking other’s culture. In my opinion Pakistani also felt a sense of Scottish pride by Wearing Kilts, Sporran’s & Jackets on their Prophet’s Birthday that was celebrated in Sialkot. (The largest manufacturing city of Pakistan). Pakistan is the second country after Scotland which exports Bagpipes and it’s famous city Sialkot is also a little bagpipe crazy, a woodwind instrument. Moreover, I thought people from Pakistan don’t like Kilts but I saw them wearing on some other events too, where it is much in evidence such as weddings, a celebration, event or occasion, whether be it in the form of classic or contemporary fashion in the form of a jacket, a dress and of course, as a kilt.
Why did non-scots like people of Pakistan like to wear a kilt? From where they got Inspiration?
Who Can Wear a Kilt?
Everyone can wear a kilt regardless of what a part of the planet he belongs to, a bit like people wore kilts on Italian Day in Vancouve to allow us to know that they aren’t only linked to Scottish and Irish heritage except for showing off pride for his or her Celtic heritage. People of China also loved to wear kilts on their special events as its the tradition formed for Chinese men to wear a kilt to formal engagements & weddings. Canadian people celebrate the “Great Canadian Kiltskate Event” by wearing Kilts and is actually a national celebration of what it means to be Scottish in Canada. Furthermore, you’ll wear it on graduation, dances, and proms and even at funerals too.
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