Kilt fashion returns to the mainstream
“Braveheart” they aren’t, but American men are increasingly drawn to the kilt.
Companies such as UtiliKilts and Sport Kilt are bringing the kilt back as a modern garment. They aren’t five yards of heavy woolen plaid, but they still offer “freedom” to men who seek fresh air.
Today’s kilts are more likely to be khaki or denim with a distinctly American cut. Many have large cargo pockets and tool loops and could never be mistaken for a ladies’ skirt.
“Do you know why the Scots call it a kilt?” asks one popular kilt joke. “Because they ‘kilt’ anyone who called it a skirt.”
Sport Kilt, based in California, offers traditional plaids alongside camouflage, khaki and even a “Boulder Kilt” style. UtiliKilts of Seattle, Washington specializes in kilts made for business-casual situations and work-kilts made of heavy canvas fabrics that are both protective and comfortable. UtiliKilts also offers a formal tuxedo kilt.
Initially the resurgence in kilts was limited to formal wear at Celtic-themed weddings, custom orders, Celtic and Renaissance festivals and in among Scottish heritage groups, but in the last few years kilts have become increasingly popular as everyday wear and are offered off-the-rack in standard sizes.
Kilts are made of far heavier material than skirts and are cut in an unmistakably masculine fashion. Many of the UtiliKilt styles include huge cargo pockets and tool loops, and all of them feature a protective double-layer front panel.
Not everyone is thrilled with the idea of wearing kilts.
“I think men should wear pants unless you are Scottish, Irish or are wearing bagpipes,” said Laurence Healy, a senior geology major.
Wearing a kilt can be problematic in some situations. Windstorms can play havoc with kilts, offering a “Marilyn Monroe” view of the wearer. UtiliKilt solved this problem with “modesty snaps” which hold the front and back together when the need arises. However, while breezes might be nice in summer, winter weather may not be as welcome.
“This time of year it’s too drafty,” said Nathan Hand, a recent CU graduate who had recently seen local kilt wearers.
While many guys may be uncertain of kilts, many women have a more certain view of men who wear kilts.
“If I saw a man in a kilt I’d think he’s very cultured, and trying to express his culture,” said Nadia Khasawneh, a senior international affairs major.
Brian Hickey, a senior integrative physiology major, attended a Renaissance Fair with female friends who talked him into wearing a kilt for the day.
“I was coerced, but I enjoyed it,” Hickey said. “I didn’t wear it in true fashion. I wore underwear underneath it.”
Jackie Peterson, a junior psychology major, may have a surprise for her boyfriend.
“That’s cool,” Peterson said. “I’d ask my boyfriend why he doesn’t get a kilt. It’s just a style, I guess.”
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Arwyn Rice at arwyn.rice@thecampuspress.com
