Does a Kilt Need a Belt?

[Rick Y]

Welcome, BoClark, to XMTS.

Let me suggestion another situation in which a belt, in my book, is necessary. For those of us whose girth exceeds our IQ, hanging the sporran from the sporran belt creates a poor appearance as the sporran will push in the kilt and make our protruding abdomen appear to protrude even farther. I use strap hangers which attach to the belt and prevent the sporran from pushing against the kilt unless we sit down and it then nicely performs it's secondary purpose of protecting our modesty.

[O'Callaghan]

I have two kilt belts (although only one buckle, which fits both) and have yet to wear either of them. I used to have one kilt that was too loose, but altered it myself so that it stays up without a belt. It's a lot easier than you think.

ETA: I have a much simpler solution to prevent my sporran getting under my gut - I wear it high enough that it can't do that.

[HippieLee]

On a side note, the same is true for pants. Belts are decorative. If you _need_ a belt to hold up your pants, your pants are too big. (belts to hold tools are another matter - same as with the dirk).

That said, I love the belt I bought from Allen Edmonds to match my McAllister wing-tips. I will eventually get a belt for my kilt but I'll probably make it myself. Just need to figure out first what shoes I will match it to. (Or, more likely, make more than one)

[tripleblessed]

As with the sporran, the absence of the belt IS glaring to most. Not WRONG, just obvious. I've certainly made some questionable choices in my time, so I must grant that courtesy to others. I'll wear a belt. Of course, I'm usually quite casual. No formal wear for me to this date, and the rules there should be one's guide.
For casual wear, always.

[rondo]

Welcome, BoClark, to XMTS.

Let me suggestion another situation in which a belt, in my book, is necessary. For those of us whose girth exceeds our IQ, hanging the sporran from the sporran belt creates a poor appearance as the sporran will push in the kilt and make our protruding abdomen appear to protrude even farther. I use strap hangers which attach to the belt and prevent the sporran from pushing against the kilt unless we sit down and it then nicely performs it's secondary purpose of protecting our modesty.

And yet another way to hang a sporran:
8940.jpg
Lots of options to consider.
Rondo

[DyerStraits]

A properly sized philabeg (Half Kilt or Small Kilt) should fit firmly yet comfortably snug and if it has waist straps, no kilt belt is necessary and generally should be omitted especially when wearing a vest/waistcoat or sweater/pullover to prevent the "lumpy" appearance, or to maximise freedom of movement when wearing a kilt for active sports like golf or field hockey (kilts with an integrated Velcro waist band are especially good for active sports, although a weight belt instead of a kilt belt is of course advisable for Highland Games strength events, weightlifting, etc.). If you are wearing a philabeg that does not have waist straps (or if you can not use the waist straps because you're wearing a kilt that's not quite your size, etc.) or if you're wearing a Feileadh Mòr (Great Kilt or Full Kilt), then a belt is indispensable.

[BoClark]

Very helpful posts, thank you all. The pictures were very much appreciated to.

Bo

[creagdhubh]

As many others have eluded to, if properly measured and tailored, the kilt does not require a belt. I agree that a belt worn with the kilt is purely for decorative purposes, yet can also be functional if one decides to wear a dirk frog and dirk with Highland evening attire, but that is few and far between these days. Personally, I do not wear a belt with the kilt as I find them superfluous and just another accessory that I simply don't need (none of my kilts have belt loops). Not to mention, I am usually wearing a waistcoat the majority of the time, except when the weather is too warm for one. Of course, there are other gentlemen who share the same sentiment (see examples below). Ultimately, whether "to belt or not to belt," comes down to personal preference and there is no right or wrong way about it.

[MacCathmhaoil]

I prefer my kilts to have a higher rise and often wear a belt just to add some detail or to distract the eye from the height of the top of the kilt. Certainly not needed but it can enhance a look.

[creagdhubh]

I prefer my kilts to have a higher rise and often wear a belt just to add some detail or to distract the eye from the height of the top of the kilt. Certainly not needed but it can enhance a look.

My kilts have a slightly higher rise as well. I have this done on purpose simply because I like the way it feels and to ensure a seemless transition (at all times) between my waistcoat and the kilt, especially for black tie events.