To Kilt or Not To Kilt

[The Rabbi]

Need some advice and assistance here(imagine that). I am aware that a Kilt is traditionaly considered purely Scottish but I am also aware that the Men of Ireland also wore Kilts as well. Based on the fact that Togas rock I would be comfortable wearing a Kilt but can not find much in the way of an Irish Kilt. Ideas Thoughts Suggestions greatly appreciated. Gramerci

[Pinn]

Stillwaterkilts.com is great place to start.

[Zardoz]

OK, big subject, but basically, even though Scottish highland culture was largely based on that of the Irish people who migrated there in the 5th and 6th century, and in spite of what you may have heard on the interwebs, there is basically no historic basis for Irish kilt wearing in the "renfaire period" .
  A garment that has often been mistaken for kilts in early depictions of Irish dress is the 'Lein', a belted long tunic traditionally made from solid color cloth, with black, saffron and green being the most widely used colors.  The kilt-like leine and brat (big shirt and wool wrap) was worn by both cultures early on, but it did not develop into what we currently recognize as a kilt in Ireland like it did by the 1500s in the relatively isolated Scottish Highlands.
The tradition of Irishmen wearing kilts is a bit newer, like say around 1900! Solid colored kilts (generally saffron or green) were adopted for use by Irish nationalists in late 19th and early 20th century, basically to symbolize their Celtic identity and Gaelic nationalism. Such kilts are often seen in photos of political and musical gatherings in Ireland during this period.

Here's some pretty good articles about this subject;
http://www.scottishtartans.org/kilt.html
http://www.scottishtartans.org/irish_kilts.htm

So... Wear one if you want, kilts have become a 'pan-Celtic' garment now, basically a way of saying "I'm not English". And at faire you'll will be at least as 'historically accurate' as the next person....


So like Pinn said, a reasonably priced saffron kilt can be had from Stillwaterkilts.com to get you started.

[The Rabbi]

Gramerci
Stillwater does seem to be what I need very reasonably priced for a trial run. Zardoz what if we have ugly legs and still wish to wear a Kilt. Me lady saw the lien and said no but a Kilt is good.

[Hibernian]

I'll add another voice in support of Stillwater. I have dealt with them several times with very good results.

As for legs, that's why you wear those tall socks and boots. 

[Hatter]

I have to add my 2 cents for Kilts and Stuff.  They are a Minnesota company and do a great job. You can get Scottish or Irish tartan from them.  I have the Ancient Kilt in Weathered MacDonald.  Works great for Ren Fest.  I wear it several times each year.