Wearing a Plaid as a Practical Accessory

[creagdhubh]

I always caution not to mix formality, as well I think that the kilt gets a bad rap as being a costume by those in the general public. For these reasons I would not wear the fly plaid casually. In fact I think it is a strange item formally as well. Another thought is that a fly plaid is not a day plaid and should not be used as such.

Precisely. Well said, Glen.

In my opinion, the so-called, "fly plaid" is a superfluous garment and really serves no purpose other than a simple fashion accessory to be worn with Highland evening attire. However, the day/Laird's/shepherd's/blanket plaid can serve many purposes (inclement/cold weather, picnic blanket, a tartan throw at home, etc), and isn't just an exclusive fashion accessory to Highland day attire. Along with other Highlanders, many Macphersons at our clan's annual gathering and rally continue the tradition of wearing the day plaid in varying lengths (most have been handed down and are quite old). The majority of the plaids are around 4-5 yards (heavyweight, single or double width tartan), and have a 6-7" of hand-purled fringe at opposite ends, much like a piper's plaid, but without the pleating. The plaid is folded in half by its length, then folded in half by its width to bring the two fringed ends together, and worn over the left shoulder with the fringe hanging in front. When done right, I think day plaids are far from being "costumey" and can look rather smart, as well as being quite practical, functional and traditional.

Clan Macpherson Chieftain, Euan Macpherson of Glentruim and his massive day plaid in the Macpherson Hunting tartan. When not on his person, Glentruim's plaid doubled as a blanket, or a tartan "throw" at his home of Glentruim House in Badenoch. Lachlan Macpherson of Glentruim, Euan's son, once told me that his mum and Euan's wife, Sandra Macpherson, had to assist him in putting the plaid on due to its massive size.









Other visual examples of the day plaid used in a traditional manner: