Great Kilts

The Great Kilt, also known as the belted plaid, is a traditional Scottish garment that was worn by Highland clans. Made from a long piece of tartan cloth, it was highly practical and easy to adapt, serving not only as clothing but also as a cloak, blanket, or temporary shelter in harsh conditions. Read more about great kilt.

The history of the great kilt dates back to the 16th century, when it slowly evolved from an earlier woollen cloak known as a brat, worn over a tunic by Gaelic people. Over time, Highland Scots adapted this cloak into the belted plaid, creating a distinctive and practical garment suited to their lifestyle and climate.

The Great Kilt, also known as the Feileadh Mòr, became widely worn in Scotland from the mid-16th century. Unlike the later tailored kilt introduced in the 1720s by Thomas Rawlinson and Englishman hailing from Lancashire.

To wear this long piece of tartan cloth is first wrapped around the waist and secured with a belt. The upper part can be folded over the shoulder or chest, making it useful as both clothing and a warm cloak.

It usually requires around 5 to 6 yards of tartan fabric, which offers a comfortable and practical fit for most men. For a fuller look, some people prefer up to 10 yards, but 5 yards works well for regular wear.

Ensure the fabric’s tartan pattern aligns perfectly, create deep, even knife or box pleats, and press them sharply so the folds fall neatly, giving the kilt both structure and traditional elegance.

Start by positioning it evenly around your waist, ensuring the pleats sit at the back, then secure it snugly with the straps, and finally fold the apron neatly over the front for a clean, traditional look.

To make this kilt, measure and pleat a long length of wool tartan by hand, then wrap it around the waist and secure it with a belt, traditionally without sewing.

A great kilt is a single length of lightweight or medium-weight double-width tartan fabric, typically measuring around 3.5–4.5 meters (4–5 yards) in length.

Custom orders typically take around 10–15 days to be completed and delivered, depending on the design and destination, while a rush service for $25 ensures preparation within 3 days and delivery in 8–10 days.