Kilting in Deutschland

[seatdistrict]

I recently posted here:

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...cotland-59399/

that I will be moving to Scotland this fall to study at the University of St Andrews. I will be on a five year degree program, though, as I will spend one year in Germany in the middle of my four regular years. I also intend to do a lot of traveling in Europe (especially Germany) during my time. Through some cursory searching, I've noticed that there are several rabble members in Deutschland, and I'd like to hear some about your kilted experiences there (as well as any in Europe or traveling).
For the record, I should receive my black UK Survival in a couple days, and I'm still trying to decide about a traditional kilt (see above thread).

Also, mögen die Deutschen den Schottenrock?

[Jock Scot]

I have worn the traditional kilt in Germany, Holland, Russia, and France with no problem whatsoever.Without exception they know what a tartan kilt is and they show a polite interest in them. Now this is a distinct impression that I have, right or wrong, whilst a tartan kilt is accepted, respected and understood(to an extent), the same cannot be said of the non tartan kilt.

[RockyR]

While I can not speak to 'acceptance' of the kilt in Germany as I was only there in 1995 (pre - kilt days), I can give you the following insight:

One of our biggest Scottish suppliers has a few dealers in Germany. The German interest in the kilt is VERY high and they have a strong kilt (sale) market in Germany. Not QUITE as high as US and Australia, but a very strong market all the same. To me, this indicates a pretty good 'acceptance' of the kilt market over there.

In speaking with Nathan at UK and other contemporary (solids with pockets) kilt companies, they ALSO have a very strong market in Germany (and broader Europe, but specifically Germany). It is one of, if not THE highest market outside of North America. You have to remember Germany's fashion sense. It's where the 'goth' scene is still very strong and has roots. It's very '1980's DEVO futuristic' in some ways. Contemporary kilts (from the conversatins I have had) sell there very well. To me, this also indicates an acceptance, at least on some level.

Bottom line... wear what you like and be comfortable in your own skin. If you're comfortable, people around you will also be (for the most part).

[BoldHighlander]

One of our biggest Scottish suppliers has a few dealers in Germany. The German interest in the kilt is VERY high and they have a strong kilt (sale) market in Germany. Not QUITE as high as US and Australia, but a very strong market all the same. To me, this indicates a pretty good 'acceptance' of the kilt market over there.

I can't really speak to its 'acceptance' in Germany (I'll let the other gentlemen more knowledgeable than I speak on it), but from my observations I'd agree with Rocky.

One example: when I was commissioner for Clan Mackay USA there was a write up in the clan newsletter about a German piper who approached the clan for permission to wear the Mackay tartan. Apparently he loved the Mackay Clan history (including the Mackay Regiment in the 30 Years War) & he wished to represent the clan. He was made an honourary member of Clan Mackay & I understand that he is a daily kilt wearer.

I've also known a few other regular kilt wearers from Germany, and none that I'm aware of have encountered any negative reactions.

[A Hay]

I've been wearing a Kilt in Germany for the last four years and have found it to be well received by almost everyone I've met. It is a great way to start a conversation with a stranger. (I speak a little conversational German, which helps).

Having said that, being somewhat above the median age, I don't go to a lot of rock parties where beer drinking is the main event, although I did see a fellow at the Munich Octoberfest in a kilt.

My German colleagues at work and my employees like for me to wear it to events like Christmas Parties.

My kilts are tartan, so perhaps that helps.

Also, if you have the time, there is a regular season of Highland Games in the middle part of Germany. Google Bagpipe Association of Germany and it will give the schedule. Lots of pipe bands compete. There is an event most every month from April through September. They also have many "middle ages" festivals where you can wear a kilt.

So I say, absolutely bring a kilt and wear it.

Regards,

Tom

[Stilletto_Rebel]

I drove the Nurburgring and attended a Mazda MX5 event kilted in Germany in '08 and can assure you that the Germans both recognise and enjoy the kilt.

The guys want to be like you and the girls want to be with you!

Somewhere near the old east/west border:

[Thomas]

Hi, there,

There won´t be any problems wearing the kilt in Germany. My personal experience is, that everybody, young and old, likes the kilt. Wearing a UK might be slightly different, because that kind of kilt is mostly unknown here. But I´m sure, even wearing a UK will be regarded with interested and friendly curiosity.

Cheers from Germany
Thomas

[McClef]

We had a passenger from Hamburg on my railway today and he was surprised to hear that so they are worn in so many nations including Germany!

But he liked my kilt! (was wearing my Caledonia Ancient).

[seatdistrict]

I'm really looking forward to coming to Germany. Glad to hear (as I anticipated) that they are receptive and friendly about kilts. If any of you in Germany will still be there in a few years, then I'll hope to see you when I'm there.

Thanks for all the helpful replies.

[Günter]

Hallo,
I am living in lower Saxony near Bremen,and my Family has nothing to do with Scotland . But I myselve love kilts, Scottish as well as Utilikilt style.

I've never got so much compliments from women as when kiltwearing.

No big deal, just com and do.
If yo come to Bremen area send an PM may be we can drink a Becks together.

be welcome and Regards
Günter