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Introduction: The Highland Games are a celebration of Scottish culture, heritage, and athleticism. With its roots dating back centuries, this unique event brings together participants from around the world to compete in traditional Scottish sports and enjoy a festive atmosphere. As you prepare to attend the Highland Games, one question often arises: What should I wear? In this blog post, we'll explore the traditional attire for both participants and spectators, ensuring you're dressed to impress and fully immersed in the rich traditions of the Highland Games.

1. Kilts: The kilt is the quintessential symbol of Scottish heritage and is widely worn at the Highland Games. Traditional kilts are made from tartan, a patterned wool fabric representing specific Scottish clans or regions. If you have Scottish ancestry, consider wearing a kilt that reflects your family's heritage. For others, any tartan pattern that appeals to you will work just fine. Pair your kilt with a sporran (a small pouch worn at the front), a kilt pin, and a belt.

2. Shirts and Jackets: Above the kilt, men typically wear a formal white or off-white shirt, often adorned with a ruffled or lace-up front. For cooler weather or a more formal touch, consider adding a jacket or waistcoat, such as a tweed or Prince Charlie jacket. Women have a bit more flexibility in their attire, with options ranging from a traditional tartan skirt to a tartan sash or wrap in Scottish-inspired patterns.

3. Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential when attending the Highland Games. Men often opt for Ghillie brogues, a lace-up shoe with long laces that are wrapped around the ankle and tied. Women can choose between Ghillie brogues or a more feminine option like Mary Janes or ankle boots. Whatever you choose, make sure your footwear provides support for walking on grassy terrain.

4. Accessories: To complete your Highland Games ensemble, consider adding some authentic accessories. Men can wear a Sgian Dubh (a small knife worn in the sock), a Glengarry or Balmoral hat, and traditional kilt hose (socks). Women may opt for a tartan sash or a brooch to secure their plaid shawl. Tartan scarves, ties, or bowties are suitable for both genders and add a touch of Scottish flair.

5. Dressing for the Weather: The weather at Highland Games can be unpredictable, so it's important to come prepared. Layer your clothing to accommodate temperature changes throughout the day. Bring a waterproof jacket or coat in case of rain, and consider packing a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.

Conclusion: Attending the Highland Games is not only an opportunity to witness thrilling athletic competitions but also a chance to immerse yourself in Scottish culture and traditions. By embracing the appropriate attire, you can fully embrace the spirit of the event. Whether you choose to don a kilt, a tartan skirt, or simply incorporate Scottish elements into your outfit, remember that the Highland Games are about celebrating heritage and having a great time. So, dress comfortably, accessorize thoughtfully, and get ready to experience an unforgettable day at the Highland Games!

The kilt, a traditional Scottish garment, has evolved over the years to become a fashion statement that symbolizes both heritage and a sense of style. In this post, we will explore some must-have kilt accessories that will make you stand out from the crowd. Sporrans, Kilt Pins, Kilt Belts, Shirts, and Ghillie Shoes and more can all help you create an outfit as unique as you!

Our online store offers our full selection of Kilts, Women’s Wear, and accessories, all available for purchase from the comfort of your own home. Plus, with our easy-to-use website and speedy delivery, you'll never have to wait long to get your hands on your favorite items, and be ready well BEFORE your upcoming events. But for those who love the energy and excitement of festivals, you can also find us at events throughout the year. Our friendly team will be on hand to help you find exactly what you're looking for and answer any questions you have. We're committed to providing our customers with the best shopping experience, no matter how you choose to shop with us!

We’re currently at the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival in Muskogee and the Tennessee Renaissance Festival just outside of Nashville. Our summer calendar is full of Highland Games and Irish Fests, so keep an eye out for further updates!

A sporran is a traditional part of Scottish Highland dress, typically worn with a kilt. Here are some tips to help you choose the right sporran for your needs:

1. Consider the occasion: There are different types of sporrans for different occasions. A dress sporran, for example, is more formal and is often worn for weddings, while a day sporran is less formal and suitable for everyday wear.

2. Consider the design: Sporrans come in different designs, from simple leather ones to those adorned with fur, tassels, and other decorations. Choose one that matches your personal style and the occasion.

3. Check the quality: Make sure the sporran is well made and of good quality materials. A high-quality sporran will last longer and look better than a cheaper one.

4. Look for functionality: Consider what you will be carrying in your sporran. If you need to carry a lot of items, look for one with larger space. If you only need to carry a few small items, a simpler sporran may be more suitable.

Overall, when choosing a sporran, consider the occasion, size, design, quality, and functionality to ensure you select the right one for your needs.

Choosing a tartan for a kilt can be a fun and meaningful process. Here are some steps to help you choose the right tartan:

1. Consider your heritage: Many people choose a tartan that reflects their family's clan or tartan. If you have Scottish or Celtic ancestry, you may want to research your family's history and find a tartan that represents your heritage.
2. Choose a universal tartan: There are many universal tartans available, like Black Watch, Irish Heritage, Scottish Heritage, etc. which are not specifically connected to any family and make nice options for everyone.
3. Choose based on color scheme: Tartans come in a wide variety of colors, so you may want to consider what colors you like or what colors would look best on you. You could also choose colors that have personal meaning or significance.
4. Consider the occasion: If you are planning to wear the kilt for a specific occasion, such as a wedding or a formal event, you may want to choose a tartan that is appropriate for the occasion. For example, often bridal parties will opt for a universal tartan for groomsmen, while the groom wears his family tartan.
5. Consider your budget: We have many kilt options at HighlandKilt.com. Our budget kilts start under $50, but are only available in a limited range of tartan options. Our Premium Kilt Range offers around 170 tartans in stock and ready to ship. And we offer over 500 tartans in our high end, custom made wool kilt range.
6. Seek advice: If you are unsure about which tartan to choose, seek advice from a kilt retailer or kilt maker. They can help you identify appropriate tartans and provide guidance on the best weight and material for your needs. 

Ultimately, the tartan you choose should be one that you feel comfortable and confident wearing, and one that has personal meaning or significance to you. If you need any assistance choosing a tartan, contact us anytime for guidance!

Tartan Day is a celebration of Scottish heritage and culture that is observed on April 6th each year. It is a day when people of Scottish descent and those who appreciate Scottish culture come together to celebrate and recognize the contributions of Scottish immigrants to North America.

The origins of Tartan Day can be traced back to the late 20th century, when the Scottish community in Canada began to promote April 6th as a day to celebrate Scottish heritage. This date was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, which is a historic document that asserted Scotland's independence from England.

Over time, Tartan Day has become a widely recognized holiday in North America, with many cities hosting parades, festivals, and other events to celebrate Scottish culture. It is also observed in other parts of the world, such as Australia and New Zealand, where there are large communities of Scottish immigrants or people of Scottish descent.

Even if you're not participating in a larger event, Tartan Day is still a lovely chance to celebrate Scottish culture and heritage by wearing tartan. You could opt to wear a kilt or skirt in your family tartan, or in one of the many universal tartans available. Adding a tartan sash or wrap are also great ways to wear the tartan on April 6th! However you choose to celebrate Tartan Day, HighlandKilt.com has something for you!

While kilts are traditionally associated with Scottish culture, they can also be worn on St. Patrick's Day as a way to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. If you are planning to wear a kilt for St. Patrick's Day, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Choose a tartan: We have several Irish tartans to choose from, including St. Patrick, Tara, Irish Heritage, and more. Or you may want to choose a tartan that features green or other colors associated with Ireland, such as white or orange. Alternatively, you can choose a tartan based on personal preference or family heritage.

2. Wear appropriate clothing: If you are wearing a kilt for St. Patrick's Day, you may want to pair it with other items that reflect Irish culture and tradition, such as a green sweater, a white shirt, or an Irish-themed tie. A tweed jacket or blazer can also be worn for a more formal look.

3. Consider the weather: St. Patrick's Day can be chilly in some parts of the world, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. You can wear a kilt with knee-high socks or kilt hose to keep your legs warm, and add a scarf, tartan sash, or hat for extra warmth.

4. Accessories: To complete your St. Patrick's Day outfit, you can add accessories such as a sporran, a belt, or a brooch. You can also wear a green or orange tie or scarf, or add an Irish themed kilt pin for a festive touch.

Remember, wearing a kilt on St. Patrick's Day is a way to celebrate Irish culture and heritage, so wear it with respect and pride. Enjoy the festivities and have fun!

Wearing a kilt can be a bit tricky if you're not used to it, but with a little practice, you can easily master it. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Put on your kilt hose or socks: Before you put on your kilt, you'll need to put on your kilt hose or socks. These are knee-high socks that are usually made of wool or cotton. They should be folded over at the top to create a cuff that sits just below your knee.

2. Put on your ghillie brogues: Ghillie brogues are a type of traditional Scottish shoe that laces up the ankle. They are often worn with kilts and are designed to be comfortable and flexible. Make sure they are securely laced up.

3. Put on your kilt: Wrap you kilt around you, with the pleats in the back. Make sure the top of the kilt sits just below your rib cage. The apron (the flat piece of fabric at the front of the kilt) should be centered at the front of your body.

4. Fasten the kilt: Using the straps on either side of the kilt, fasten it securely around your waist. The left strap should be passed over to the right hip, while the right strap should be passed over to the left hip. Buckle the straps at the sides of your waist, making sure the kilt is snug but not too tight.

5. The bottom of the apron should sit just above or at the center of your knee.

6. Add a sporran: A sporran is a traditional Scottish pouch that is worn at the front of the kilt. It's typically made of leather or fur and is used to carry small items. The sporran should be positioned in the center of the apron, just below the waistband.

7. Adjust the pleats: Finally, adjust the pleats of the kilt so that they are evenly spaced and lying flat. They should be facing towards the back of your body. Once you've done this, you're ready to go!

Note: Some kilts may arrive with a loose running stitch along the bottom of the pleats. This is for shipping purposes only and should be removed before wearing.

Well one good thing about stay at home orders is it has given me time to get some updates to the website! We've added a whole bunch of new tartan kilts, including: Clan Keith, MacArthur, MacCauley, MacDonald Ancient, MacIntyre Hunting, MacLachlan Modern, MacLaren Ancient, MacMillan Hunting, MacNaughton, MacPhee, Malcolm, Maxwell, Montgomery, Muir, Muirhead, Munro, Ross Hunting Muted, Turnbull, and more. We've also added the leather kilts so many have been requesting!

The updates will be continuing over the coming weeks, including more budget kilts, new items, exciting new product lines, and more. Keep checking back to see all the wonderful kilted goodness coming your way!

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