What to Know Before Buying a Tartan Kilt: Sizing, Fabric, and Tartan Patterns

Tartan kilts are the most valuable because of their direct connection with Scottish and Irish heritage. That’s why they are the most worn kilts worldwide. The patterns, colors, and stripes hidden in the tartan hide many things in them. So it is essential to be careful and have knowledge about many factors while buying a tartan kilt. This discussion aims to inform you about the factors one must know beforehand.

Things to Know Before Buying a Tartan Kilt

Before we click on our primary topic, let us clear up the differences between tartan and kilt, which is a common query among the people. Some people consider them the same, but tartan is a fabric usually made with wool. The tartan on the other hand makes the kilt, resembling a knee-length skirt, initially worn by men. Let’s have a look at the factors contributing in choosing a tartan kilt.

Ensure Vendors Reputation Before Buying

Before understanding the tartan kilts and things one should know prior, it is essential to find a reputable vendor. Many platforms today claim to provide extraordinary products but do not do it. A majority of well-reputed brands have an online appearance where one must consider checking reviews from others.

Similarly, seeking help from people who already have experienced the brand might be more helpful. It is a suggestion to purchase from a brand like The Utility Kilt (TUK) that offers affordability, customization, good returning policies, and of course, unique products.

Understanding Tartan Patterns

The first and most important aspect of choosing traditional kilts for men is to comprehend the patterns. The meaning of tartan in Scotland and Ireland is not the same since it mentions clan in Scotland while region in the second country. Scottish tartans are also more likely to be plaid and multi-colored, while Irish tartans are sometimes plain or solid-colored.

Choosing the Right Clan or Regional Tartan

In Scotland, one should go with family tartan, the pattern his ancestors have been wearing for centuries. Many people who do not have a connection with clans can choose a universal tartan. A universal tartan comprises a pattern everyone can wear if he is not a Scot. While Scots who do not know their traditional tartan, they should check the family tree. Similarly, Irish people should go with regional tartan.

Fabric and Material Considerations

The comfort and longevity of tartan kilts are hugely dependent on their fabric. Wool has long been the material of choice for tartan kilts because it is breathable, strong, and warm. These features make it appropriate for a variety of climates. However, contemporary kilts may also be found in combinations of acrylic and wool, which provide a less expensive alternative without sacrificing style.
While Irish kilts are sometimes fashioned from lighter fabrics like cotton or mixes, especially in warmer areas, Scots have always preferred wool tartan kilts. The material of a tartan kilt should be chosen with the season and its intended use in mind.

Color Significance and Personal Preferences

The colors of tartan kilts are both decorative and culturally significant. To Scots, tartan colors often represent family ancestry with Scottish heritage, with certain clans associated with specific patterns. In contrast, Irish tartans are typically connected with counties or cultural icons, showing a feeling of local pride. When choosing a tartan, individuals want to consider how the colors suit their cultural ties and personal preferences.

Accurate Sizing

Another important consideration when purchasing a tartan kilt is the correct size. Kilts that are too tight or too loose can sometimes impair both look and comfort. Precise measurements, particularly around the waist and hips, are required to get a full look. People usually wear their kilts with a belt for extra security, but the kilts still allow for freedom of movement.

Tips to Measure Tartan Kilts

Most of the business websites provide kilt measurement guides. Nonetheless, to make the actual use of a chart, it is essential to measure yourself keeping body shape in mind. For the ease of buyers, here are some tips to measure tartan kilts:

• Begin by measuring around your natural waistline to determine where your kilt will fit comfortably.
• It’s time to measure your hips. Measure around the broadest portion of your hips, ensuring the tape is level.
• The following step is to determine the length of the knee. Begin from your waist to where you want the kilt to end (typically above the knee).
• It’s also vital to measure your thighs. Check the size of your upper thigh to ensure the kilt fits comfortably.
• Measure the drop from the top of your waistline to where the pleats should begin.

Authenticity and Sourcing of Tartan

Authenticity is an important factor when buying a tartan kilt, especially for people of Scottish or Irish origin. Kilts created in Scotland or Ireland are considered the most genuine since they support local artists and preserve traditional artistry.
While tartan kilts are now manufactured worldwide, individuals looking for a genuine product should focus on brands offering authentic tartan products. It guarantees that the kilt is manufactured from high-quality materials and respects the cultural traditions of tartan design.

Wear a Tartan Kilt Appropriately

The final factor to consider to maintain the elegance of kilts is to wear them appropriately. In fact, not only is wearing essential, but attaching all the accessories is equally important. Here are some tips for wearing tartan kilts appropriately:

• Ensure the kilt sits on the natural waistline near the belly button.
• Wrap kilts around the waist, keeping the fringe on the right side.
• The pleats should be on the rear side.
• The kilt should drop down to the middle of the kneecap.
• Attach all the essential accessories according to the event type.

Accessories to Attach with Tartan Kilts

Attaching essential accessories with tartan kilts is the most important, but keeping the type of occasion in mind is also important. The accessories may change on casual and formal occasions. Here are some of the most important attachments:

Experience Highland Tradition with Your Own Brand, The Utility Kilt

Are you planning to experience the Highlander traditions by wearing their attire? You must choose an extraordinary brand that fulfills every aspect of a good brand by offering premium quality, reasonable prices, accurate customization services, and valid return policies. The Utility Kilt must be your top choice, as it provides 8-yard tartan kilts by default, but you can modify it according to your requirements. Some incredible kilts at our store are: