The word “kilt” means different things to different people. To a Scotsman, it involves clan tartan, a sporran, socks and optional underwear. To Miuccia Prada, fashion icon, long a kilt wearer, it’s over-the-knee, thick wool, plain and slightly school girlish. But to Marc Jacobs is just the thing for a stroll around New York.
Kilts are now what you might call a proto-trend. On the cusp of becoming a thing but not quite at their tipping point yet. More experimental flowers such as Laura Bailey and Alexa Chung are already on them, but the likes of, say, Kim Kardashian having yet to give them the time of day.
There’s a smattering on the spring catwalk – on men at Sibling, and women at Proenza Schouler – and a few on the high street (Topshop has a very Mrs. Prada wrap kilt for under £50). But, really, kilts actually quite thin on the ground.
As for how to wear a kilt in summer, Laura Bailey clashes the tartan with a printed shirt, and Mrs. Prada’s simple sweater was lovely, especially with her signature chandelier earrings. She thinks bare legs rather than thick tights give the fustiness of a school uniform a bit of an edge, and also will handily prevent overheating.
Shoes-wise, sandals or ankle boots are good. But you’re a season ahead, so you have the luxury of time to play around with the, “what to wear with a kilt?” question. Enjoy it – proto-trends like this don’t come around too often.
For more kilt advice and a custom fitting visit Off Kilter Kilts at 2610 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena. Call them at (626) 817-9999 or visit www.offkilterkilts.com for more information.
