Kilt waistcoats are also known as kilt vests. They are sleeveless parts of the Scottish Highland dress worn under the jackets. Mostly barathea wool is the preferred fabric to make this apparel and tartan is also a considerable choice nowadays. This article focuses on waistcoats and covers different styles where we tell you about different waistcoat styles, tips for choosing the right one, maintenance tricks, and more. Let’s begin our discussion with traditional waistcoat options.
Traditional Waistcoat Styles
Waistcoats being apparel may have several variations but when we connect it with the Scottish Highland, it has three primary styles. All three styles are traditional and considered essential for completing a proper Scottish Highland outfit. So, move ahead to explore these cultural waistcoat styles.
Prince Charlie Waistcoat
Prince Bonnie’s jacket is famous because of its association with the founder of the Jacobite rebellion. The Prince Charlie waistcoat is attached with it and is typically made from barathea wool. This particular vest usually exists in black and navy blue. It has 3 fastening buttons with a low-cut front for enhanced visuals. The inner side is fabricated with pockets while the back has strips to fasten it.
Argyll Waistcoat
Argyll vests are connected with Argyll kilt outfits or jackets. Unlike the Prince Charlie vest, this particular one has 5 fastening buttons. It includes external front pockets and straps on the back for adjustment. The bold appearance of this apparel results in suitability for modern wearers who want to leave a strong impression publically.
Tweed Waistcoat
The last variation of the traditional kilt vest is the tweed waistcoat. It is a classic style made of wool and its unique, somewhat rough feel becomes an identity. Moreover, it’s a fantastic option for colder climates and suits informal settings because of warm and long-lasting characteristics. Plain, checkered, and other classic patterns are among the many patterns available for tweed waistcoats. For extra comfort, you may also select models with an adjustable waist and a contrasting back panel. There are several different neckline possibilities, such as a stand collar, V-neck, or even a lapel collar.
Modern Waistcoat Options
There are numerous modern waistcoat variations available. However, those worn with kilts are not available in a large number. Their distinction lies in the material used to make them.
Velvet Waistcoat
Even though not so traditional, velvet waistcoats are common to pair with Prince Charlie kilt jackets with formal (evening) events. While they are best suited for formal occasions, velvet waistcoats are sometimes worn with Argyll jackets for semi-formal gatherings. But this practice is not so common.
Leather Waistcoat
People consider a leather waistcoat to be a strong pair with denim or modern kilts. Therefore, it is an ideal accessory to attire with a traditional tartan kilt. It creates a tough but timeless style. Darker hues usually suit the leather. Wearers can complete their look with boots and a basic sporran for a festival or Highland gathering that strikes a mix between tradition and edge.
Linen Waistcoat
The linen waistcoat is lightweight and looks fantastic with a casual kilt in a solid colour like grey or blue, or a faint plaid. This waistcoat variation is a good choice for warmer climates because of lightweightness. Avoid heavy wool or very formal tartans, as they may not complement the causal texture of line.
Comparison Table of Traditional and Modern Kilt Waistcoats
| Aspects | Traditional Kilt Waistcoat | Modern Kilt Waistcoat |
| Cut & Fit | Classic cut, boxier with short tails | Slim fit, more streamlined and body-hugging |
| Lapels | Satin or wide lapels | Narrow lapels or often no lapels |
| Buttons | Decorative, often silver or pewter | Minimalist, tonal, or hidden |
| Fabric | Wool barathea, tweed | Wool blends, cotton, or modern synthetics |
| Use & Formality | Worn for formal Highland dress events | Suitable for semi-formal or casual occasions |
| Versatility | Limited to traditional attire and events | Versatile—pairs with kilts, trousers, or jeans |
Tips to Finalize the Right Waistcoat for Your Kilt
Some people may find it challenging to choose the ideal for them, especially those experiencing Scottish attire for the first time. So, it’s essential to know some practical tips to maintain the charm of traditional attire. We have a list of a few handy tips here!
- The first and an important thing is to analyze and confirm the formality of the event. Choose the Prince Charlie vest for formal, Argyll for semi-formal, and tweed or modern one for casual settings.
- The color and fabric of apparel are important considerations too. The fabric should be according to current weather while the color should complement the kilt and other accessories.
- Understanding style and its appropriateness for the occasion both should be considered. So, choose a 3-buttoned one for ceremonial while a 5-buttoned one when wearing it casually.
- Pair the rest of the accessories with a waistcoat. Most importantly, all attachments should be adjunct to one another.
Accessories to Complement the Waistcoat
The next chapter here is about the accessories that one can pair with kilts to complement a waistcoat.There are many accessory options, including ties, pocket squares, watches, and waistcoat chains.
Ties and Bowties: No matter what kind of necktie you pair with your vest, its colour, quality, and material should be a priority. The color should coordinate with the outfit, the quality should be high, and the material should match the kilt jacket.
Pocket Squares: Pocket squares on Scottish vests serve as a source to add timeless flair to the outfit and improve overall look. Linen or cotton options are the ideal ones to complement the vest and enhance its beauty.
Sporrans: Wear should not keep sporrans aside when talking about accessories to pair with a kilt waistcoat. They should be paired carefully with a vest. Choose a dress sporran with Prince Charlie while a day sporran with Argyll jackets.
Belt & Buckle: Leather belts with silver sterling buckles are common to attach with kilts but their attachments depend on jacket and waistcoat. You don’t have to pair them with a Prince Charlie kilt outfit because the length of the jacket and vest hides them.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Waistcoats
You should care for your kilt vest and maintain it properly if desiring for its longer lifespan. Many people today just buy outfits but do not care about them. In the end, they claim their brand does not offer worthy practice. Every part of a kilt outfit requires proper maintenance. Here are some caring tricks for the vest.
- Ensure keeping your vest neat by regularly cleaning it with a soft brush.
- Go for a professional dry cleaning.
- Avoid washing it to the maximum possibility.
- If essential to wash, ensure a professional wash.
- In case there is no professional in the surroundings, hand wash it with cold water.
- Prioritize spot cleaning when there is a minor strain.
- When pressing it, set the iron heat setting to the lowest possible level.
- Store the waistcoat in a dry, clean space.
- Use a breathable garment bag to prevent moisture build-up.
Discover Utility Kilt UK for Quality Waistcoats
Are you looking to buy a waistcoat for the next event? Which one you should choose is clear now. It’s time to answer another question: where should you buy it? This question is important to answer here to save your time and get what you desire. So, you should consider exploring the vest available at Utility Kilt UK, a reliable online brand. Doing so will save you time since you do not have to visit the market. Furthermore, we are affordable compared to others and all of our vests are made with premium-quality materials including fabric and buttons.
FAQs About Kilt Waistcoats
What types of waistcoats pair best with traditional kilts?
The Prince Charlie waistcoat is the classic option to pair with traditional kilts. Some suitable occasions include weddings and black tie functions.
Can I wear a modern waistcoat with a traditional kilt?
Yes, doing so is a great idea. Leather waistcoats are excellent options to wear with traditional kilts.
How can I ensure that my waistcoat fits correctly when paired with a kilt?
The secret to wearing a waistcoat with a kilt is to find a fit that is both tight and comfortable. Neither too tight nor too loose, it should fit naturally. To ensure that no portion of your shirt shows below, the waistcoat should completely cover the top of the kilt. So, take precise measurements of your back length, waist, and chest to ensure the ideal fit.
Is a patterned waistcoat good to go with a tartan kilt?
Yes, even tartan-made waistcoats are worn with traditional kilts. The point here is the selection of patterns. If wearing a tartan kilt, the waist should share the patterns. When pairing simple patterns, the colors should match.
Can I wear a waistcoat without a jacket with a kilt?
Indeed, there are occasions when a jacket is not required, particularly in informal settings. A vest worn without a jacket may provide a casual yet fashionable touch to the ensemble.
