A wedding day is the big day for any groom, and it is essential to adopt an attire that sets him apart from others. This isn’t difficult at Scottish weddings, where traditional kilt outfits are worn for centuries; they are the norm. While this tradition was once mostly followed by those with Scottish ancestry, today even non-Scots embrace Scottish attire, especially at weddings held in Scotland. The problem arises when non-Scots want to experience tradition and don’t know how to choose. This guide is a perfect companion for them because it also covers many other things.
Understanding the Significance of Kilts in Scottish Weddings
The only way to truly experience Scottish culture is to understand the significance of kilts on the wedding day. It is a common practice in Scotland to dress up in their traditional attire at formal and cultural events, so how can they spend a wedding day without admiring their culture? Kilts on this day are essential because their tartan patterns are an excellent source to highlight their identity. Moreover, wearing kilts also reveals the respect for tradition in the hearts of the grooms.
Formal vs. Semi-Formal Kilt Dress Codes
There are usually two kinds of dress codes: formal and semi-formal. Formal events require attendees to wear appropriate attire that reflects the occasion’s importance. On the other hand, semi-formal events also have a dress code, but there is room for fluctuation. Wearers do not have to stick to the same components of an outfit.
Wedding day falls on the list of formal events where a dress code is necessary. Thus, there are two kinds of outfits: Prince Charlie and Argyll Kilt Outfits. The only thing setting them apart is the style of jacket and waistcoat, while the rest of the attachments are the same.
How to Choose the Right Tartan for a Wedding
Choosing the right tartan for a wedding involves a few key considerations. First check your ancestry and opt for a tartan. Similarly, matching patterns to the wedding theme and color coordination is also very important.
Clan vs. Universal Tartans
Tartan patterns are the horizontal and vertical stripes on the fabric, including a number of colors. These styles serve as the primary factor when choosing a tartan kilt. There are two options: clan tartan if you have Scottish ancestry and the universal tartan if you are a non-Scot or don’t have a tribal background. So, consider your background and the event’s context before selecting a pattern.
Matching with the Wedding Theme
The next thing is matching your tartan with the wedding theme. Here the formality of the event matters a lot. If it is a daytime event, consider vibrant hues such as green and blue. The nighttime events (strictly formal events) are good to pair earthy tones such as black, off-white, and brown. Remember, the color of the kilt should complement other accessories as well.
Components of a Traditional Kilt Outfit
Wearing a kilt is never sufficient to complete a kilt outfit, but there are other relevant kilt accessories that must be attached carefully. Most of these components are specific to the formal events only.
Shirt Options: Dressing up an appropriate shirt is essential for a complete outlook, and Ghillie shirts or a crisp white dress shirt are the classical choice.
Jackets: Standard coats are worn in other parts of the world, but Scots wear their traditional jackets. Two common options are Argyll jackets for semi-formal and Prince Charlie jackets for formal settings.
Sporran Types: Sporrans are also available in many types, while the suitable choice for wedding attire is a full dress sporran. Its body is leather-made, and the inclusion of fur, tassels, and cantle offers a classical flair.
Footwear: Appropriate shoes are also important. Though many shoes are pairable with traditional and modern kilts, Ghillie brogues are the only choice for traditional weddings.
Hose and Flashes: When it comes to the legwear, you should avoid wearing standard socks but proper kilt socks. These are woolen socks that cover the upper calf and are traditionally folded at the top. To prevent slipping, garter flashes are placed in the foldings.
Accessories: There are many other kilt accessories that you should include in your outfit. You should choose them carefully to represent the heritage. Some common attachments are kilt pins, brooches, fly plaids, and sgian-dubhs.
Women’s Options for Scottish Wedding Outfits
Tartan kilts and all of the above-mentioned attachments suit only men. Ladies do not have the same number of kilt components. Even women do not wear kilts and incorporate tartan into their wedding attire through sashes, shawls, or other accessories. The selection of the tartan depends on their personal choice, whether they can opt for their clan patterns or that of her husband to show a unity between both families.
Rental vs. Buying a Kilt Outfit
Renting or buying a kilt outfit for a wedding is a common query nowadays. Both practices have potential benefits and also some drawbacks. So, your affordability and choice are major considerations here. Buying an outfit requires a handsome amount, while renting it for a single event can be convenient. But you will have to rent again for another event, and investing once offers a solution for years.
If you rent a kilt, you are not responsible for its maintenance and cleaning. On the other hand, if you buy your outfit, you’ll be responsible for its care and upkeep, which can be time-consuming. In the same manner, both practices are beneficial and pose some drawbacks. Hence, choosing a high-quality outfit should be the priority.
Seasonal and Venue Considerations
Choosing an ideal wedding kilt outfit is not challenging today because kilt-makers offer a complete package. They ensure all products are made with the same quality to lengthen the charm of attire. However, they cannot help you in considering seasonal and venue-related matters. You need to be active yourself and choose products according to the given perspectives.
Outdoor Summer Weddings: Summer weddings can be an exciting experience if you wear an ideal outfit. Choose tartan made with lightweight fabric, and the jackets should be lighter as well. Maintain this criterion for every piece of the outfit.
Cold Weather Ceremonies: For cold weather events, you need something warm, snug, and comfortable. Wearing a heavily fabricated jacket with a vest, a tartan kilt made with at least 13 oz., and solid hoses can be helpful.
Approach Irish Kilt Shop To Buy a Kilt Outfit
Now that you are familiar with some exceptional tips to buy a wedding kilt outfit, it’s time to purchase one for your wedding event. You are right if you are concerned about the trusted store to buy a dress online because it leaves many people in thought. Irish Kilt Shop is a trusted brand that can provide you with the perfect kilt outfit for your wedding. At our store we have complete outfits, including the Prince Charlie kilt outfit for strictly formal and the Argyll outfit for semi-formal settings. Besides these outfits, you can buy all accessories individually, including men’s kilts.
FAQs About Wedding Kilt Outfit
Can I wear underwear under the wedding kilt?
Even though wearing underwear with the underwear is not a traditional custom, yes you can wear underwear, commando, or boxers for increased comfort and it also provides warmth in the winter season.
What should I do if my tartan clashes with the wedding color scheme?
Choosing a pattern according to the event’s theme must be the priority. In case you miss this point, divert your focus to complementing the primary colors.
Can women wear kilts or similar Highland dress to a Scottish wedding?
Absolutely, women are allowed to dress up in Highland dress for weddings. They can do it only if they are at the groom’s side, and they should often wear skirts instead of kilts.
Are belts suitable with Argyll jackets?
Yes, belts are usually worn with Argyll jackets, but their necessity is lower if you are wearing a waistcoat with a kilt.
