Kilt Fashion 101: 10 Outfits To Wear Under A Kilt

By Dinushka Breaker Gunasekara Jun 08, 2023

A kilt is a traditional Scottish garment that consists of a pleated skirt that wraps around the waist and falls to the knees. Kilts are usually worn with a sporran (a pouch that hangs in front of the groin), a kilt pin (a decorative pin that fastens the front apron), and a belt. You can wear a kilt for formal or casual occasions, and they come in various tartans (patterns of crisscrossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors) representing different clans, regions, or organizations.

But what do you wear under a kilt? This is a question that has intrigued and amused many people for centuries. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. Different opinions, traditions, and preferences regarding what goes on underneath the kilt exist. Some people wear nothing; some wear underwear, some wear shorts, and others wear other garments.

In this blog post, we will explore 10 outfits you can wear under a kilt, depending on the occasion, weather, and style. Whether you want to be authentic, comfortable, or adventurous, there is an outfit for you.

Let's get started!

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Nothing!

The most traditional and controversial outfit to wear under a kilt is nothing at all. This is also known as "going regimental" or "going commando."

The origin of this practice is unclear, but some sources suggest that it dates back to the 18th century when Scottish soldiers wore kilts without underwear for practical reasons, such as ease of movement, ventilation, and hygiene.

Whatever the case may be, wearing nothing under a kilt is still considered by some to be the most authentic and respectful way to honor the Scottish heritage. Nonetheless, if you decide to go regimental, ensure you are comfortable with it and aware of the risks.

Underwear

The most common and sensible outfit to wear under a kilt is underwear. This can be any underwear you prefer, such as briefs, boxers, or trunks. Underwear provides comfort, support, protection, and modesty when wearing a kilt.

It also prevents chafing and irritation from the woolen fabric of the kilt. Underwear can be plain or patterned, but it should not clash with the tartan of the kilt.

Here is our selection of the best affordable and sustainable men's underwear brands.

Shorts

Another outfit that you can wear under a kilt is shorts. They are similar to underwear in comfort and functionality but offer more coverage and security. Shorts can also add some warmth and insulation on cold days.

Shorts can be any style and sustainable material you like, such as organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. However, they should not be too bulky or long to show below the hem of the kilt or interfere with the pleats. They should also not have zippers or buttons that might damage the kilt fabric.

Leggings

Leggings are a great outfit to wear under a kilt if you want extra warmth and coziness. Leggings are tight-fitting pants that cover your legs from the waist to the ankles. Go for ones made from sustainable materials like organic cotton and hemp.

You can wear them under a kilt in any color or pattern you like, but they should not clash with the tartan of the kilt. You can also layer leggings with socks or boots for more protection from the cold.

Check out our selection of the best affordable and organic bamboo leggings.

Kilt hose

Kilt hose are traditional socks that are worn with kilts. They are long socks that reach up to the knee or slightly below it. They are usually made from wool or acrylic and come in various colors and patterns.

Kilt hoses are not technically an outfit to wear under a kilt but an essential accessory that complements the kilt. Kilt hose provides warmth and comfort for your feet and legs when wearing a kilt. They also add some style and flair to your look.

Sporran

A sporran is another accessory that you can wear under kilts. It is a pouch that hangs in front of the groin area and serves as a pocket for storing personal items such as keys, wallets, phones, etc. Go for ones made from faux leather or fur, with different styles and designs depending on the occasion.

Shirt

A shirt is an obvious outfit to wear under a kilt to cover your upper body. A shirt can be any shirt that you like, such as a t-shirt (casual), polo shirt (smart casual), dress shirt (formal), sweater (warm), etc.

You can match the shirt with your kilt by choosing a color that is present in your tartan or by wearing a tie (formal) that features your clan crest or emblem.

Also, you can wear a shirt over your kilt for a unique look and style. For instance, you can wear a denim shirt over your kilt for a rugged or Western vibe or a plaid shirt over your kilt for a grunge or punk vibe.

Kilt skirt

A kilt skirt is a feminine version of a kilt that women wear. A kilt skirt is similar to a kilt in terms of fabric, pleats, and tartan, but it has a different cut and fit. A kilt skirt is usually shorter and narrower than a kilt, with a zipper or button closure instead of a belt.

A kilt skirt can be worn under a kilt if you want to create a layered and stylish look. A kilt skirt can also add warmth and protection when wearing a kilt.

Kilt underwear

Kilt underwear is a special type of underwear that is designed for wearing under a kilt. Kilt underwear is usually made from cotton and has a pouch that supports and enhances the male anatomy. Kilt underwear can also have lace, mesh, or tartan trim features.

Wear kilt underwear if you want to feel more confident and comfortable when wearing a kilt. Kilt underwear can also prevent chafing and irritation from the woolen fabric of the kilt.

Kilt loincloth

A kilt loincloth is an ancient and primitive outfit worn under a kilt. It is a piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and between the legs, exposing the buttocks. A kilt loincloth can be made from any material, such as faux leather, linen, or organic cotton.

It is ideal for wearing under a kilt to feel more authentic and adventurous. A kilt loincloth also provides some ventilation and freedom of movement when wearing a kilt. You can also contrast your kilt loincloth with your kilt by choosing a different material or color.

Signing Out!

As you can see, there are many outfits that you can wear under a kilt, depending on the occasion, the weather, and your personal style. Whether you want to be authentic, comfortable, or adventurous, there is an outfit for you.

Choosing the right outfit to wear under a kilt can enhance your kilt look and express your personality. You can also avoid awkward or embarrassing situations arising from wearing nothing or something inappropriate under a kilt.

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About the Author: Dinushka Breaker Gunasekara

I am a journalist and a computer scientist passionate about all things online security, sustainable fashion, lifestyle, beauty, and food. I plan my weekends on Monday, and my least favorite time of the day is in between meals.