Kilt accessories: The Final Touches That Hold the Attire Together
Wearing a kilt is not just wrapping fabric around your waist—it’s a whole ensemble, a statement, and in most cases, a source of pride. And with any iconic style, the devil’s in the details.
Accessories elevate your kilt from a basic piece of clothing to a commanding ensemble. From practical items such as the sporran to finishing touches such as kilt pins, brogues, and belts, all play a part in completing your appearance—whether you’re wearing a classic tartan or a new, bold design.
Now we can break it down, including careful consideration of that accessory required by every kilt wearer: the sporran.
The Sporran – Style and Function
The sporran (spor-ən) is likely the most important kilt accessory. Since kilts do not have pockets, the sporran serves as a pouch suspended from a chain or strap around the waist, just in front of the kilt.
Types of Sporrans
There are several types of sporrans to suit different occasions :
Day Sporrans
- Fellowship leather making
- Minimal or no decoration.
- Perfect for every day or outdoor use
Semi-Dress Sporrans
- A combination of leather and fur
- Typically requires little metalwork
The sporran is to be suspended from your waist, middle, approximately 3–4 inches below the buckle of the belt. The strap or chain passes through belt loops or runs above the kilt waistline. Don’t have it fly around—it should swing a little as you walk, but not wildly bounce.
Kilt Belts and Buckles
Whereas a kilt in itself is normally fitted to the body, a wide leather kilt belt adds shape and ornamentation. Buckles are commonly Celtic or clan designs and act to tie the outfit together (no pun meant).
Width : Usually 2.25–2.5 inches
Styles : Plain leather, embossed, or thistle, knot, or coat of arms decorated
Pair with : Coordinating sporran and brogues for an even look
Kilt Pins
A kilt pin is a piece of ornamentation pinned to the front apron of your kilt, traditionally at the bottom right-hand corner. While it doesn’t keep the kilt on (a misconception some have), it prevents the apron from flapping around and adds a touch of flash.
Patterns : Clan crest, Celtic knot, sword, or personal pattern
Material : Silver, Pewter, Bronze
Tip : Don’t sew it through both layers of material—it’s just for the outside apron!
Sgian Dubh (pronounced “Skee-an Doo”)
The Sgian Dubh is a small ceremonial dirk concealed in the top of the kilt hose (socks), with only the handle showing. It was once used for utility and self-defense—but now it’s more of a traditional statement.
Styles : wooden, bone, or horn handles; stone or clan symbol decoration.
Worn : On the dominant side (right for the majority)
More modern models : These have bottle openers or are rubber for safety at public gatherings.
Kilt Hose and Flashes
No kilt is complete without kilt hose—the long socks pulled up to just below the knee. Flashes are the colored ribbons or garters which hold the hose in place and add a splash of color, often matching your tartan or sporran tassels.
Standard colors : Cream, gray, or tartan-compatible colors
Flashes : Come in pairs and are on the outside of each leg
Ghillie Brogues
These are the classic footwear, which is worn along with kilts. Long laces that cover around the ankle and no tongue (to dry more quickly in damp Scottish weather) make the ghillie brogues practical as well as stylish.
Materials : Polished leather
Styles : Brogue (punched) detailing or plain.
Tied : In a criss-cross around the ankle with a tight bow on the front or side
Waistcoats and Jackets
Depending on the occasion, you can wear:
Argyll Jacket : Less formal, usually worn over a five-button waistcoat.
Prince Charlie Jacket : Extremely formal, with three-button waistcoat and bow tie.
Utility/Modern Jackets : Leather or canvas jackets can be paired with gothic or hybrid kilts.
Conclusion
Accessories not only complete a kilt appearance—they take it to new heights. Whether you’re attending a black-tie wedding, performing on a festival stage, or simply enjoying celebrating heritage every day, these accessories speak for you and make you the ultimate original style. And one addition to add, if you have but one? Wear the sporran—useful, symbolic, and fashionable, it is the cornerstone of any classic kilt outfit.
