That’s all for today’s episode ofThe Story Behind the Kilt. Whether you’re Scottish, part-Scottish, or just love kilts, this garment has a way of connecting people across cultures. Thank you for joining me on this journey through history, fashion, and culture. Remember to subscribe to the podcast for more stories about kilts and the people who wear them.
Until next time, wear your kilt with pride, and we’ll see you in the next episode!
Before we wrap up today’s episode, let me share some exciting upcoming events! We’ll be at theHororata Highland Games on November 9, representing Liberty Kilts. It's going to be a fantastic day with traditional Scottish dancing, games, and of course, plenty of kilts! Come visit us at our stall to see our latest designs and to get fitted for your very own kilt.
Also, don’t forget to check out our website, libertykilts.com, where you can browse our full range of kilts and accessories. If you're in New Zealand, head to kilt.nz for a local experience. And if you're looking for a specific tartan or a custom kilt, feel free to get in touch—our team will be happy to assist.
https://libertykilts.com/outfit
Let’s get practical for a moment. How do you actually wear a kilt today? Traditionally, a kilt is worn with a sporran, a small pouch that hangs from the waist. It's not just for show; the sporran is where you keep your essentials. Paired with a jacket, waistcoat, and kilt hose, this is the classic
The influence of the kilt doesn’t stop at the Scottish border. Whether you’re in the United States, New Zealand, or even Japan, you’re likely to spot kilts at special events, from Highland games to St. Andrew's Day parades. In fact, some of the biggest Highland Games events are held outside of Scotland, like in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, where I’ll be setting up my own stall next summer.
But it's not just about tradition. More and more people are wearing kilts to express their unique cultural identity or simply to make a fashion statement. As a Kiwi myself, I’ve seen the kilt’s popularity grow in New Zealand, especially during cultural events. People love connecting with their Scottish roots or even adopting kilts as part of their fashion repertoire.
At Liberty Kilts, we offer customization services to help people create their perfect kilt. Whether you want your clan's tartan or something that reflects your personal style, kilts are for everyone. It's about wearing something that tells a story—whether it's about your heritage, your personality, or even your travels.
Designers have taken inspiration from the original woolen kilt and added modern twists, such as using leather, denim, and even tech fabrics. At my own store,Liberty Kilts, we’ve blended the classic kilt with contemporary fashion elements, offering styles that speak to both tradition and modernity.
In the 18th century, the kilt became more than just everyday wear; it took on deeper meaning with the rise of clan tartans. Each Scottish clan developed its own distinct tartan pattern, weaving heritage and identity directly into the fabric of the kilt. Wearing your clan’s tartan was a way to show solidarity, belonging, and pride in your ancestry.
The tradition of tartans became even more pronounced after the Jacobite Risings. Following the Battle of Culloden in 1746, kilts and tartans were banned by the British government in an attempt to suppress Scottish identity. Despite this, the kilt survived—becoming a defiant symbol of resistance and resilience. Today, each clan’s tartan is celebrated as part of Scotland’s enduring legacy.
The kilt has long been a symbol of Scottish identity, but did you know that its origins stretch back to the 16th century? Originally, kilts were worn by Highlanders, offering both utility and protection in the rugged Scottish terrain. These early kilts, known as the "great kilt" or feileadh mòr, were much larger than today's versions. They were made of a single piece of woolen cloth, wrapped around the body and then thrown over the shoulder.
But it wasn’t just for looks! These garments were perfect for the Scottish climate. The heavy wool fabric kept Highlanders warm in the cold and could even double as a blanket during chilly nights. In fact, this is how kilts first transitioned from purely functional garments to becoming symbols of national pride.
Welcome toThe Story Behind the Kilt, your go-to podcast for everything related to kilts, from their rich historical roots to their modern-day resurgence as a symbol of pride, fashion, and cultural expression. I'm your host, Haider Bajwa, and today we're diving deep into one of the most iconic garments in the world—the kilt!
