Understanding the difference between a Great Kilt and a Small Kilt
When people think of traditional Scottish dress, they often picture a man in a kilt. However, what many people don’t realize is that there are actually two types of kilts: the Great Kilt and the Small Kilt. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two iconic garments.
What is a Great Kilt?
The Great Kilt, also known as the Feileadh Mòr, is a traditional Scottish garment that dates back to the 16th century. It’s made from a single piece of tartan fabric measuring around 5-6 yards in length and 54 inches in width. The kilt is worn by pleating the fabric horizontally and then wrapping it around the body, with one end pulled over the shoulder to form a sort of cloak or hood.
What is a Small Kilt?
The Small Kilt, also known as the Modern Kilt, is a more recent invention, dating back to the 18th century. Unlike the Great Kilt, it consists of two separate pieces of tartan fabric: a skirt and a sash. The skirt is pleated around the waist and then fastened with a belt, while the sash is worn over the shoulder and across the chest.
What are the key differences between the Great Kilt and the Small Kilt?
Aside from the obvious differences in construction, there are a few other key differences between the Great Kilt and the Small Kilt. For one, the Great Kilt is generally considered to be the more formal of the two, and is often reserved for special occasions such as weddings or formal events. The Small Kilt, on the other hand, is more commonly worn as everyday attire.
Another major difference is the way they are worn. The Great Kilt requires a fair bit of skill to put on properly, as it involves pleating the fabric by hand and then wrapping it around the body in a specific way. The Small Kilt, by contrast, is much simpler to put on, since it’s essentially just a skirt and sash that can be fastened with a belt.
Which kilt is right for you?
Ultimately, the choice between a Great Kilt and a Small Kilt comes down to personal preference, as well as the occasion for which you’ll be wearing it. If you’re planning to attend a formal event, a Great Kilt may be more appropriate, while a Small Kilt would be better suited for everyday wear or less formal occasions. Whichever one you choose, however, you can be sure that you’ll look dashing and stylish in this classic Scottish garment.
