The influence of Christianity has shaped the traditions across the United Kingdom, which is why patron saints hold such a strong cultural presence. The celebrations of Saint Patrick’s Day and St Andrew’s Day prove it. Some saints are associated with specific countries falling in the United Kingdom, like Saint George.
He was a Christian martyr whose day is celebrated in England and many other countries on 23rd April. This discussion intends to tell you about some celebrations and reveal why kilts are a good option to wear on this day and an ideal place to buy men’s kilts. Let’s begin with his introduction.
Who Was Saint George?
Saint George was a religious person who had great respect because of his holiness. According to reports, he opened his eyes around 275D in Cappadocia, which is Turkey today. Without any doubt, he was a noble person, slaying dragons made him very popular worldwide too. The event makes him a powerful symbol of good triumphing over evil. According to studies, he was a Roman soldier or an officer.
He never visited England in his life but his preaching of good made him popular there too. His admiration was recognized in the 9th century in Europe and England celebrated his feast on 23rd April for the first time. Unfortunately, he could not live longer and died at the age of 28 in 303. He was announced as a martyr since he did not admire pagan gods and stayed loyal to his faith.
Cultural Celebrations of the Day
The day is of cultural importance in England and a number of people make it memorable by participating in different activities. Some traditional and modern celebrations are ahead!
Displaying the Flags: People usually decorate their homes and buildings with the Saint George Flag, which has a cross with a red background.
Feasting Celebrations: The origin of this day reveals that Feasting was its first celebration. Therefore, it continues till the day. The edibles feature classic English dishes like roasted lamb, bangers and mash, and fish and chips.
Church Services: Though he was a Christian saint, people still arrange Church services for prayers and admiring their saint.
Wearing Particular Attire: The United Kingdom is home to diverse cultures, so the attire preferences vary too. Many people choose to wear blue because it was the favourite colour of the patron saint. Similarly, many prefer St. George’s Cross-themed clothing like T-shirts, ties, or lapel pins, or even dress up as a knight or wear a St. George’s Day hat.
Why Wear a Kilt on Saint George’s Day?
We just discussed the attire on Saint George’s Day. Why don’t we promote Scottish kilts on this particular day? Undoubtedly, Saint George is an English saint, but it is also true that a large number of Scots live in the same country. So, to appraise their culture and show unity with them, wearing Scottish kilts might be the best idea. Some other reasons to wear kilts are:
- They are modern interpretations of traditional attire and are popular worldwide.
- Their historical connections to the Scottish military announce them as a symbol of strength and individuality.
- The growing trend of men choosing kilts for symbolic days and events also proves their value in England.
Top Kilt Picks for Saint George’s Day
Not sure which kilt to choose? You must consider knowing how to choose the right kilts for different occasions and acting upon the few recommendations from Utility Kilt UK to suit different styles and settings on this symbolic day. However, there are different ideas to follow like:
- One can go with utility kilts if he desires some outdoor activities for adventure purposes.
- Wearing a flag kilt with an English symbol on it is a consideration.
- If you are planning to wear a tartan kilt, choose one with red, white, and blue patterns.
- You must consider wearing your traditional tartan kilt if you have Scottish ancestry.
A question might be asked here: what if you do not have family tartan, what to do then? There is nothing to worry about because thousands of universal tartans are available today, so you can choose any of them. Here are some products that you can give a thought to:
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Kilt Styling Tips for Saint George’s Day
Everyone knows that wearing kilts has special protocols that maintain the respect of attire. The first thing is to choose the kilt’s accurate size and attach all the essential attachments properly. Styling your kilt properly is essential to honoring both tradition and fashion. Here’s how to get your Saint George’s Day look just right.!
Tartan Choice: You should go with a tartan that incorporates the St. George’s Cross colors or your family tartan.
Kilt Pin: Ensure securing your kilt with a kilt pin. It adds a traditional and stylish touch to your attire.
Sporran: Remember to carry a sporran since it is a traditional Scottish component. Besides being a historic entity it helps you carry belongings.
Ghillie Brogues: Ensure wearing Ghillie brogues to maintain your traditional look. It is the classic footwear that complements formal kilt outfits. If you have plans for outdoor ventures on this day, sneakers or loafers might be the better idea.
Accessories: Consider adding a kilt belt and flashes (decorative strips of tartan) to complete your outfit.
Jacket: For a more formal look, pair your kilt with a tweed waistcoat or blazer. Adding a red rose because it is strongly associated with Saint George will make the attire more attractive.
Shirt and Tie: When choosing a dress shirt, it preferably should be plain. Similarly, you can wear a standard or a bow tie to match your tartan.
Sgian-Dubh: Do not underestimate Sgian-dubh while styling a kilt outfit on this particular day. It is a knife or a dagger Scots have been using for centuries.
How Utility Kilt UK Helps You Stand Out
Saint George’s Day is approaching soon, if you plan to buy a kilt to experience Scottish culture on this day, visit our store right now to find amazing kilts. No matter what type of kilt you want, a utility or the tartan kilt, we offer an amazing discount on all of our products.
Most importantly, Utility Kilt UK locally manufactures every kilt and provides our customers with excellent quality. Similarly, our quick shipping services also set us apart from others. Another important point we must discuss is our expertise in customization. So, just let us know about your exact size, we will provide what accurately fits you. We prepare kilts on custom orders, so, consult our team to inform what kilt type or styling changes you want, we will do it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear a kilt on Saint George’s Day?
Wearing kilts on this day is not a part of the tradition. Nevertheless, kilts are worn worldwide today, so there is no obstruction to dressing in a kilt.
Is it offensive or cultural appropriation?
Wearing kilts on St George’s Day is neither offensive nor a cultural appropriation but it is part of modernism or fashion statement. Similarly, doing so admires the Scottish heritage.
What colors go best with this celebration?
Keeping the cross in front, your kilt should have red and white patterns. Likewise, blue is thought to be the favorite colour of St. George, an addition of blue, complements the attire too!
Do I need a full outfit or just a kilt?
As you know, wearing kilts is not a part of traditions on this day, so the choice of wearing just a kilt or complete outfits depends on you. Wearing only a kilt with required attachments might be enough. Likewise, the occasion falls on the list of formal events, so there is nothing wrong with wearing a complete kilt outfit.
