Is the Kilt Irish or Scottish?

Although kilts are traditionally associated with Scotland, they are also long-established in Irish culture. Kilts are worn in both Scotland and Ireland as a symbol of pride and a celebration of their Celtic heritage, yet each country's kilt has many differences which we'll explore in this post.

Where does the kilt originate from?

Originating in the traditional dress of men and boys in the Scottish Highlands in the 16th century is a skirt-type garment with pleats at the rear. Since the 19th century, the kilt has become associated with the wider Scottish and Gaelic cultures. Kilts are often made of a woollen cloth in a tartan pattern.

Can an Irish man wear a kilt?

The short answer is yes, but not for as long as the Scots. While kilts in Scotland can be dated back some 300 years or more, Irishmen have only kilted up for the past 100 years or so. Still, there's no tradition like a new tradition!