Contrary to popular belief, the kilt doesn’t just exist in Scotland. It is also worn proudly in Ireland by a population keen to preserve its cultural heritage… Because let’s face it: the kilt is one of the traditional symbols of the Emerald Isle. The Irish wear it with pride, although it’s admittedly rare to come across one, except on St. Patrick’s Day! Here’s a little background on the Irish kilt and its subtleties!
Who’d have thought it? Many experts believe that the kilt was first worn by the Irish before spreading to Scotland!
Although today the Scottish kilt is far better known than the Irish kilt, it would appear that this traditional garment was first mentioned in Ireland in the 11th century… whereas traces of the tartan kilt can only be found from the 17th century onwards.
It’s enough to create a real debate!
In the 11th century, the Irish wore the kilt or“feileadh mor“, a garment made of a 6-meter woollen cloth, rolled up and belted around the waist.
A strip of fabric was always left hanging at the waist, so that it could be folded down to shoulder height for better coverage.
In those days, each“feileadh mor” was in the colors of a specific clan (each pattern being called tartan), and thus served as a sign of recognition. Wearing this garment was a real honor in itself, and was perceived as a consecration of manhood. (No women wore kilts in those days).
At the time, this garment had a reputation for being extremely heavy and uncomfortable. Very hot, it was nevertheless able to cope with Ireland’s worst weather conditions.
It was around the 16th century that the “feileadh mor“A few changes were made. The upper part, which draped down to the shoulder, was removed, leaving only a skirt and belt. Following these modifications, the name of the kilt was changed to “feileadh beg“(or little kilt).
Today, the kilt is still worn in Ireland. It takes the form of a 6-meter-long woollen cloth, wrapped around the waist in a succession of deep folds. Lighter and more “ergonomic” than its predecessors, it has become more comfortable.
Each kilt has a specific color to signify clan membership. These colors are called“tartans” and have all their own meanings and symbols, depending on the family to which they are affiliated (sometimes for centuries).
Be careful, then, not to wear a kilt unless you have received permission from the clan concerned: many families may disapprove… while others will kindly let you…
In terms of color, Ireland has far fewer tartans than Scotland. The Irish kilt is very different in color from its cousin, preferring green and ochre patterns. There are hardly any Irish tartans using shades of red and blue… with the exception of Northern Irish kilts… Some kilts are even devoid of patterns, and feature only solid colors…
Although not worn daily in Ireland, the kilt is nevertheless in demand on special occasions, for weddings, or joyous or solemn occasions. But you’re more likely to come across them during St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, Ireland’s national holiday!
From its origins to the present day, here are the main components of this traditional garment:
The question is inevitable when it comes to kilts: are the men naked underneath, or do they wear underwear?
So as not to prolong the suspense too much, the answer is simple: it depends!
Back then, it was probably too hot under the kilt to wear protection… But many historians believe that some wore a light fabric to avoid the repeated burning of wool.
Nowadays, both schools exist: some wear the kilt without underwear, while others prefer boxer shorts or briefs, to avoid any unpleasantness (a gust of wind can happen so quickly… especially in Ireland!).
Buying a kilt isn’t easy, and a good budget is a prerequisite. The main Kilts Makers are few and far between, and create bespoke fabrics at a high production cost.
For the price, it depends on the quality of the fabric (and tartan, as some are only available in very small quantities) and the pleating (the best known are Kilt Hire, Harris Kilt…), but on average, count 600€ if the Kilt Maker takes care of everything.
Or you can supply the fabric, and the Kilt Maker will take only €300. Prices per metre can vary (on average) from €70 for double widths to over €90 for single widths!
Don’t forget to ask about your tartan, the family to which it belongs, and whether it’s possible to get permission from them to wear these colors.
Finally, don’t hesitate to wear it on special occasions: the Irish themselves only wear it on St. Patrick’ s Day or for weddings. They may well smile when they see you wearing such traditional garb, as it’s sometimes considered a real cliché… even by the locals themselves!
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