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When someone asks what you wear under a kilt, the answer’s pretty simple: traditionally, nothing is worn underneath, but most modern wearers go for some kind of underwear for comfort and hygiene.
This whole “regimental” thing started with Highland soldiers as a sign of pride and, honestly, a bit of rebellion.
These days, you’ll still see it at formal events, but let’s be real, most folks pick whatever feels best for them.
The choice of what to wear under a kilt really depends on the occasion and what feels right. Some people go for seamless underwear or kilt liners to keep the drape looking sharp and avoid those awkward lines. What to wear under a kilt actually is determined by the situation and what makes you feel comfortable. Some people opt for seamless underwear or kilt liners to keep the drape looking crisp and avoid those unflattering lines.
There’s far more to this than meets the eye, and for some reason, it’s always going to be a subject that brings forth challenging debate.
Traditional and Modern Choices Under the Kilt
Some Scots still adhere to the old ways, wearing nothing under their kilts, and plenty more just want to be comfortable. It’s traditionalism blended with practicality, really.
The Regimental Tradition: No Underwear
Highland soldiers of yore did not wear underpants with their kilts. They referred to this as “regimental” or “commando under kilt”.
Not only was it comfortable, it said something about power and freedom. You’ll still see some people practising this at large Highland ceremonies or public events.
But let’s not kid ourselves that it is the norm anymore. Beyond military circles or quite traditional events, it’s rare. These days, it’s a tribute to heritage rather than everyday wear.
Contemporary Approaches and Underwear Options
Most men today only wear underwear with their kilts. Boxer briefs or moisture-wicking fabrics seem to be the popular choice for many men.
They make a huge difference in comfort and hygiene and stop the chafing, especially if you’re putting your kilt on for hours or expending loads of energy.
Others have kilt liners or special shorts. They do not add bulk or show lines and ensure the kilt looks good.
For weddings or formal things, fitted underwear that doesn’t show through is a smart move. If it’s cold, thermal or merino wool layers work well under a kilt.
Kilt Etiquette and Dress Codes
Kilt etiquette can differ depending on where you are. At formal affairs, some adhere to the tradition of going “naked under kilt”, but frankly, most don at least a pair of seamless underwear for modesty.
For Highland Games or sports, comfort wins out, and performance shorts are a solid choice.
There’s no strict rule. Most people just do what feels right for them, and that’s totally fine. The kilt’s still a symbol of Scottish pride, no matter what’s underneath.
Factors Influencing What Is Worn Beneath a Kilt
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What you choose to wear under a kilt really just depends on what feels comfortable, your comfort level with tradition, and where you’re wearing it. Hygiene is also something to consider, particularly if you are renting a kilt.
Personal Preference and Comfort
Pay attention to what the other men are wearing, and notice how much they pay attention to themselves. Ultimately, there was a lot more to it than just kilts and hairy knees, and that is why you shouldn’t assume anything!
But in this day and age, most people opt for underwear for comfort and hygiene. Tight kilt trunks, or boxers and briefs with special fabric to keep you dry, are quite popular because, like man leggings, they don’t take away from the look of the kilt.
Some men prefer special kilt shorts or even liners for support. If people still want that feeling of freedom, not wearing them is an option; it’s just much less common now.”
Hygiene and Rental Considerations
Hygiene is a big reason men wear underpants with kilts. Kilts are typically made of heavy wool, and nothing underneath starts to feel uncomfortable quickly.
If you are renting a kilt, companies almost always require you to wear underwear, usually what’s known as kilt pants’ or ‘boxers’, so as to keep things clean for the next bloke.
Guys renting kilts for weddings or events usually pick seamless or fitted underwear to avoid lines. Moisture-wicking fabrics are helpful, especially if you’re going to be moving a lot. It keeps the kilt in good shape and is just polite for whoever wears it next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you supposed to wear something under a kilt?
Historically, Highland soldiers went “regimental” and wore nothing underneath the kilt. These days, people opt for underwear for reasons of comfort and hygiene.
What is worn under a Scottish Highland dress?
In the history of the military, a chip was ever worn under a kilt. Customs may have been different outside the army, and no underwear is really associated with formal Highland dress or events like a ceremony.
What do people wear for an event that is formal and based around kilts?
At weddings or other more formal events, most of the men with whom I spend time are in form-fitted or completely seamless underwear to avoid lines. Others prefer to keep it traditional and skip the bunny accessory. If there’s dancing involved or a lot of moving to be done, moisture-wicking shorts are probably a good idea.
What are some tips from the experts on how to maintain one’s kilt-wearing dignity?
Experts say to just balance tradition with comfort. They recommend breathable, discreet underwear for formal events and technical shorts or liners for active days. The main thing? Be confident and respect the tradition, whatever you pick.
What undergarments do you wear, and does it depend on the type of kilt?
Yeah, it kind of depends where you are and what you’re doing. If you opt for a traditional wool kilt, liners or standard boxers will do.
People who wear modern kilts for sports or casual stuff usually pick performance underwear. Those are great for cutting down on sweat and chafing; nobody wants that.