When it comes to weddings, many couples seek to incorporate their heritage and traditions into their special day. For those with Scottish ancestry or a love for Scottish culture, kilts offer a unique and meaningful fashion choice. Whether you're the groom or a guest, wearing a kilt at a wedding can be a memorable and stylish choice. In this guide, we explore the dos and don'ts of wearing kilts at weddings, with a focus on groom and guest styles.

The Groom's Kilt

For the groom, wearing a kilt is a chance to celebrate his Scottish heritage or embrace the allure of Scottish tradition. Here's how to make it a stylish and meaningful choice:

1. Selecting the Right Tartan: Start by choosing a tartan pattern that holds significance for you or your family. Whether it's your clan tartan or a tartan with colors that complement the wedding theme, this choice is essential.

2. Complete Outfit: A traditional kilt outfit includes a kilt, sporran, belt, and jacket. Ensure that all components match and are in harmony with the chosen tartan.

3. Jacket Styles: Jackets can vary from the formal Prince Charlie to the more casual Argyll jacket. The choice depends on the formality of the wedding.

4. Footwear: Ghillie brogues, a type of traditional Scottish shoe, complete the look. Don't forget kilt hose (socks) and flashes to hold them up.

5. Accessories: Incorporate accessories like a sgian-dubh (a small knife worn in the sock) and a kilt pin that complements the outfit.

6. Getting the Fit Right: Proper measurements are crucial to ensure a well-fitted kilt. Consult with a professional kilt fitter to achieve the perfect fit.

Kilts for Wedding Guests

As a wedding guest, wearing a kilt can be a sign of respect for the couple's heritage or simply a stylish fashion choice. Here's how to do it right:

1. Respect the Couple's Wishes: If the couple has requested that guests wear kilts, make sure to honor their request. If not, check with them to ensure it's appropriate.

2. Selecting the Tartan: If you have Scottish heritage or a family tartan, wearing it can be a beautiful tribute. Otherwise, consider a universal tartan that doesn't belong to any specific clan.

3. Outfit Choice: Guests have more flexibility in their attire. A kilt, shirt, and tie can be a sophisticated choice. Jackets are optional but add formality.

4. Footwear and Accessories: Ghillie brogues and kilt hose are suitable for guests too. Accessories like a sporran, belt, and kilt pin can enhance the look.

5. Respect the Formality: Match your outfit's formality to the wedding's dress code. For formal weddings, a full kilt outfit is appropriate; for casual weddings, you can opt for a more relaxed style.

Kilt Etiquette at Weddings

Whether you're the groom or a guest, observing certain kilt etiquette is essential:

1. Don't Lift the Kilt: While it may be a stereotype, lifting a kilt to show what's underneath is considered highly disrespectful.

2. Respect Local Customs: If the wedding takes place in Scotland or follows Scottish traditions, pay attention to local customs and practices.

3. Learn to Wear It: If you're new to kilts, practice wearing one before the wedding day to ensure you're comfortable and confident.

4. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories like kilt pins and sporrans should be chosen carefully to complement the outfit without overshadowing it.

5. Follow the Dress Code: If the couple has specified a dress code for the wedding, ensure your kilt outfit aligns with it.

Conclusion: Embracing Tradition with Style

Wearing a kilt at a wedding, whether as the groom or a guest, is a fantastic way to embrace tradition and make a stylish statement. By following the appropriate guidelines for tartan selection, outfit components, and kilt etiquette, you can ensure that your kilt adds a touch of Scottish elegance to the celebration while respecting the significance of the occasion. So, whether you're saying "I do" or celebrating love as a guest, consider donning a kilt and be part of a truly memorable Scottish wedding experience.