Detailed Look at Prince Charlie Kilt Outfit Elements

Scots wear different types of kilt outfits, but the most prominent for the formal events is the Prince Charlie Kilt outfit. It is a proper get-up that is usually known for the Prince Charlie jacket, while the rest of the accessories are the same as other outfits, like Argyll Kilt outfits. This outfit is our center of attention today, and we will talk about its complete elements and styling tips and tell you why you should purchase it at Utility Kilt UK. Let’s begin this discussion with its historical context.

The Historical Context of Prince Charlie Kilt Outfit

Many people imagine that Prince Charlie Stuart was the first to wear this outfit, but that’s just a misconception based on its name. In reality, this style of kilt outfit existed a couple of centuries before Prince Charlie was even born. The jacket that we now associate with the outfit—the Prince Charlie Jacket—was actually introduced many decades after his death.

It was during Queen Victoria’s era that Scottish attire reached its peak, especially after being banned for about 40 years. Her fascination with Scotland and its history made her time as queen a kind of dream era for Scottish tradition. It was in the late 19th or early 20th century that the Prince Charlie Kilt Outfit, as we know it today, was standardized.

In addition, Sir Walter Scott’s books were crucial in sparking interest in Highland attire. Although the outfit’s fundamental components were constant initially, over time, different accessories were added according to contemporary influences.

What’s Included in a Prince Charlie Kilt Outfit

As mentioned earlier, the Prince Charlie Kilt Outfit has a complete set of accessories from jacket to garter flashes. Let’s have a look at all the accessories you must put on to honor the hero.

The Prince Charlie Jacket and Waistcoat

The first attachment, undoubtedly, is Prince Charlie’s jacket, which is the primary identity of attire. It is a formal, double-breasted jacket. Thus, because it is a formal attire, it performs well in conventional events like black-tie affairs and weddings. It’s a key part of Highland dress. Experts typically make it with Barathea wool. Some common ornaments are satin lapels and decorative silver buttons.

The distinctive features comprise a buttoned tail, adding sophistication to the attire. With this particular outerwear, you also need a waistcoat. A standard waistcoat has 3 buttons and its color should match the jacket.

The Kilt

The next part of the outfit is a kilt, which is the identity of Scottish attire. Because the outfit is a formal one, the ideal recommendation is to wear clan tartan kilts. Moreover, the availability of Prince Charlie Jackets in solid color ensures that they suit every color. To maintain a connection with tradition, you should choose an 8-yard traditional kilt.

Shirt and Tie

Let’s highlight the shirts and tartan ties now. Usually, bow ties are part of this particular outfit and work as an important part of formal events. Continuing to the shirts, the traditional shirts are the only choice for pairing with Prince Charlie Kilt outfits. Scottish traditional shirts do not have buttons; instead, they have laces. It is the traditional one. In fact, historians claim it to be the first shirt that Scots wore with kilts. Before its invention, Scots wore long pieces of tartan fabric draped over their shoulders.

Sporran

A sporran is a must-attach part of the kilt outfit. This Scottish bag honor the heritage and as a decorative piece. Similarly, their role with Prince Charlie Kilt’s outfit is to offer a level of practicality to the wearers. Sporrans are available in different variations, while the one highly suitable with this particular attire is a dress sporran. It has some ornaments, such as a cantle with a Celtic knot, tassels, and original fur.

Kilt Hose and Flashes

You must have seen Scots wearing long socks, staying a couple of inches below the kneecap. They are kilt hoses, and available in many patterns like tartan, diced, and solid single-shade patterns. The ones paired with this costume are usually single-coloured, while white is the top choice. Have you ever noticed that the folds of the hose never fall down? Garter flashes stop them that exist in tartan patterns, usually matching the kilt. Both of these objects are the important parts.

Ghillie Brogues

Many shoes are pairable with kilts but the scenario changes when it comes to any formal Scottish costume. Ghillie Brogues are traditionally assigned to kilt outfits. These are leather-made shoes that have long laces and holes to offer breathability. Surprisingly, they do not have a tongue which helps them dry quickly. The way to tie them is unique since the long socks are wrapped around the ankle.

Sgian Dubh

The next major part of Prince Charlie’s kilt outfit is a Sgian-dubh, or Scottish knife. It is also a traditional part of attire that served as a hidden weapon for a long duration, while now it aims to honour heritage. The wearer tucks it into the hoses on the prominent side of the wearer, so he may find it easy to attach and detach.

Extra Accessories

The list of elements continues, and other important parts are kilt pins, fly plaid, and brooches. You can attach a kilt pin on the lower corner of the tartan kilt to hold it and prevent it from flying. Other than applying weight, it also serves as a traditional entity to honor the culture. There are many kilt pins today that have Scottish symbols engraved to highlight a connection with the past.

Similarly, fly plaid is a large piece of tartan fabric that Scots attach and drape over the left shoulder. Fly plaids are specific to men, while women wear tartan sashes. To hold and prevent plaid from falling, Scots attach a badge on the same shoulder. It is a brooch of chrome silver and a sign of tradition.

How to Wear the Prince Charlie Outfit Properly

Everyone knows that wearing Scottish costumes has special protocols and the same is true for Prince Charlie’s kilt outfits. Every part of the outfit needs to be worn accurately. If you are unsure how to prepare, you must consult an expert. Therefore, some easy steps are:

• Wear the kilt at your natural waist, with the pleats at the back and the front apron flat and centered. Ensure the length reaches the middle of your knees.
• A white, wing-collar shirt is most traditional, often paired with a formal bow tie or ruched tie.
• Add the Prince Charlie Jacket and Waistcoat. This short black jacket with silver buttons is worn open, over a matching or contrasting waistcoat. Both pieces should fit snugly and sit properly on your shoulders.
• Pull the hose up to just below the knee, folding the top down to hold the flashes in place, typically matching the kilt or tartan.
• Ghillie brogues are traditional; lace them up your calf and tie them just below the knee.
• The sporran is both functional and decorative. Attach it via a chain or strap around your waist, centered on the front of the kilt.
• Consider a kilt pin; placed on the lower right corner of the front apron. Attach a sgian-dubh and a fly plaid with a brooch for extra formality.
• This attire is highly traditional and ceremonial—carry yourself with pride and respect for the heritage it represents.

Why Buy Your Outfit from Utility Kilt UK

Purchase a Prince Charlie Kilt Outfit from Utility Kilt UK to experience timeless tradition. With their meticulously crafted kilt, Prince Charlie jacket, waistcoat, sporran, ghillie brogues, and other accessories, our full Highland dress sets pay homage to Scottish tradition in every way. We provide genuine tartans and elaborate accessories like brooches and Celtic knot sporrans. No matter what event it is, Utility Kilt UK provides unparalleled tradition, flawless style, and excellent workmanship at one location.

Frequently Asked Questions