For some time I had in my collection, a Highland Light Infantry kilt that had never been issued, containing a dated maker's label from 1936 - shortly after the HLI had been put back into the kilt.

This kilt had only two buckle fastenings - both on the right side. The inner-apron was held in place by the tension of the outer-apron, but wearing experience shows it was a reliable method and the under-apron never moved. The HLI wore Mackenzie tartan and pleated to the white stripe.

I cannot post pictures, as I no longer have the kilt - I passed it onto a Mackenzie friend a few years ago - but the material was very thick, heavy and densely-woven. I wold say it is the same weight and weave of cloth as a Black Watch kilt I still have, that has the more normal three straps - one on the left, and two on the right.

My father's uncles who served in kilted regiments during the Great War used to talk of the advantages of the kilt in trench warfare. The could be up to their knees in water and mud without much trouble, while those men in puttees and trousers found their leg-ware acted like a wick and drew up the water to a high level. And when on the march, or passing deeper sections of mud and water, the Highlanders would lift their kilt, or even take if off and carry it draped around their shoulders cloaklike to keep it dry. That must have been a sight to behold..!