Wearing the kilt in Scotland

**WillowEstate** · 7th June 14, 10:38 AM

While it's true that you won't see many kilts outside the main tourist areas, there are some around, just a function of population density, I guess.

I've worn a kilt in Scotland on holiday, touring the wilder places, as far as Cape Wrath (the northernmost point on the mainland) at least and never encountered any problems, or even any comments come to that. But then my accent is English and not American, so maybe that makes a difference?!

**TheOfficialBren** · 7th June 14, 11:57 AM

I'd wager, respectfully submitted, Willow Estate, that it does. We get a bad rap abroad.

**Jock Scot** · 7th June 14, 12:24 PM

Originally Posted by WillowEstate

While it's true that you won't see many kilts outside the main tourist areas, there are some around, just a function of population density, I guess.

I've worn a kilt in Scotland on holiday, touring the wilder places, as far as Cape Wrath (the northernmost point on the mainland) at least and never encountered any problems, or even any comments come to that. But then my accent is English and not American, so maybe that makes a difference?!

For the sake of accuracy, nothing more. Cape Wrath is the most Northerly point of North Western mainland UK. The actual most Northerly point of mainland UK is, Dunnet Head(Easter Head) in Caithness. Just saying.

**David** · 7th June 14, 12:54 PM

I have noticed kilts being worn more often of late; and not to weddings etc. or by tourists, just general day to day stuff. There seems to be a change in the air, nothing major, but a slight change nonetheless.

**hector** · 7th June 14, 02:32 PM

I am actually touring in Scotland (Aviemore, Inverness, Ullapool, Durness, Harris, Skye...) and have may be seen two kilted men (not counting a wedding where most men were in kilt). I have worn one of my kilts several times, no problems encountered. However, it is not to be excluded that people talk behind my back. But this would happen also in my country. Who cares? I don't.

**jfraser** · 7th June 14, 06:04 PM

On my last trip home to Scotland whilst visiting relations in the north-east and north I counted 14 men wearing the kilt in one week, one of them (Inverness) possibly worked in a shop. This was between the hours 8am to 6pm. However, at Edinburgh airport saw a group of about 25, 18 - 25 year olds kilted. Off on a trip somewhere and no doubt letting the world know they were from Scotland.

If you want to wear the kilt, wear it with confidence and as though it is totally natural for you to do so and I am sure you will be alright. After all, people often mention the buzz they get out of wearing Scottish/Highland attire in Scotland.

In my circle of friends it would be very unusually, in fact unheard of, for a negative comment about someone wearing a kilt who was not actually Scottish. Some will even go out of their way to make you more welcome.

**ABG0819** · 8th June 14, 08:06 AM

Though I know that this topic comes up a couple times a year, I am glad that it has reemerged now. In August, my wife and I will be spending about a week in what I have heard called the Central Belt of Scotland, between Glasgow and Edinburgh. I have considered taking a kilt, but I hate to be seen as disrespectful. One of our stops on this tour of central Scotland will be the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and I have no idea what the dress code for spectators is, but I had considered the kilt for that evening especially.

I am glad to hear that the kilt is becoming a little more common as everyday dress in Scotland.

Graham

**McClef** · 8th June 14, 11:08 AM

The best response to any tut tutting is "OK where's yours then?"

Some male fashions you see in Scotland leave an awful lot to be desired.

I have just returned from a holiday in the Isle of Wight, there was a party from Scotland also in the hotel, older smartly dressed men but all in breeks.

**David** · 8th June 14, 11:08 AM

If you want to wear your kilt Graham, wear it, simples.

**TheOfficialBren** · 8th June 14, 01:34 PM

(Apologies for the brief hijack)

Perhaps I misjudged. I've had some negative experiences with native Scots (not here, obviously--in the real world) with regard to the wearing of Highland clothing. Thank you for the reassurance. I'll take my kilt when I visit. Luckily I am not the sort to behave like a ned (we call them 'bros' in California) in any way, shape, or form. That probably helps.

David, probably to do with the topic-that-shan't-be-discussed.

(Hijack ended.)