Highland Dress | A Complete Guide to Traditional Scottish
The value of the men’s Highland dress has increased over the generations, making it a unique and standard part of Scottish culture. These dresses in Scottish fashion continue to be popular. People are still discovering Scottish clothing, reflecting Scottish fashion’s rich history and style.
Understanding of Highland Dress
Highland dress became popular in Scotland and is commonly worn by individuals from Scotland and the surrounding islands. The traditional Scottish dress, worn in the Highlands and Isles of Scotland, consists of a kilt made of a plaid fabric with a repeating pattern called tartan.
Highland attire is typically worn for formal occasions and includes various accessories, colors, and designs. In addition, trend of Highland attire have spread to other regions of the nation and are currently in use.
The importance of Highland dress
Highland dresses are the most prominent, as they can be worn for formal occasions and during World War II battles. In any case, this dress has the potential for patriotic and symbolic displays that reflect Scottish, Gaelic, and Celtic culture.
The Origin of Highland Dress
Highland dress made a significant mark in the 16th century. The kilts were initially seen among the several occasions of lairds in the power of Highland clans and their staff as ceremonial attire.
In order to highlight individuals who possess remarkable skills, resulting in the achievement of significant social status. Moreover, they aim to feature musicians, storytellers, bards, and other accomplished individuals.
If we consider its colour, ancient Highland dress had soft and light colours, resembling the historical shades of the first tartans made with natural dyes. Today’s Highland tartans have pastel-like shades, making well-worn material appear.
What components make up Highland Dress?
In the early 19th century, elite men’s tailoring changed because of discoveries in Italy and Greece. British tailors began shaping cloth to highlight the solid and statuesque qualities of the male form in fashion.
The popularity of Highland dress is the most significant symbol of Scottish history and culture. It is proudly worn by men and women on special occasions and consists of various items with deep historical and symbolic significance. Let’s take a closer look at its key components.
Tartan Tie Usage
Tartan is the most attractive fabric for tie hanging on the Highland dress. Structurally, it consists of a short fabric piece worn around the neck and expertly knotted. With most of this modern era Scottish clothing and accessories proudly display tartan designs.
Purpose of Kilt on Highland Attire
As we go deeper, the central part of Highland dress is the kilt. The kilt is seen as a knee-length skirt made from tartan cloth, pleated around the waistband. Now, demand is so high that it is available in many tartan patterns, each marking the specific Scottish community.
Concept of Kilt Belt Buckle
The Kilt belt buckle part traditional Highland dress, a decorative accessory worn with the kilt. Furthermore, the kilt is generally worn with a leather belt and can be seen as a buckle, adding to the purpose of well-made charms on the clothing.
What is Kilt Hose?
The kilt hose is an exciting and valuable component of Scottish Highland dress. When we talk about its structure, it is a type of knee-high socks intentionally worn with kilts. The material is typically made from wool and features intricate patterns or designs. Meanwhile, the kilt hose is an addition that makes the Highland Dress look attractive and will provide warmth and comfort to the wearer.
Argyle Jacket
The Argyle jacket plays a vital role in Highland dress, serving as the centerpiece of the costume. It shows a casual yet stylish charm and is often paired with a tartan kit. In terms of design, it boasts a square cut front and back and is typically crafted from a solid, high-quality woolen fabric.
What exactly does the Sporran like?
The sporran is a small pouch worn at the front of tartan kilts. It is made of leather or fur and has silver or pewter fittings as decorations. It is for holding small goods like phones, wallets, and keys. Its special concept is a powerful way to proudly display the wearer’s clan or family crest, making it a memorable and personal accessory.
Ghillie Brogues
Ghillie brogues are Scottish leather footwear with laces tied around the ankle. Additionally, they have an exceptional pattern of holes on the toe cap and sides, known as broguing, and are often worn with kilt hose as part of the Highland Dress.
Bagpipes
Bagpipes, although not commonly seen as part of the Scottish costume, are often associated with kilts, Tam o’ Shanters, and other Scottish clothing.
Conclusion
It is essential to look out for the components of Highland Dress to authentically and respectfully represent Scottish culture and heritage. While those native to Scotland may be well-versed in Highland attire, others may require guidance on how to dress. The tartan tie, Argyle jacket, and other clothing and accessories can be incorporated into a Highland Dress outfit, making it ideal for special events.