iStyle: Highland fling: Comeback of the kilt

The kilt is making a comeback this season, from traditional Scots tartan to minis and punky versions, writes Holly Swayne

Holly Swayne
Tuesday 05 November 2013 20:00 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

While many fashion trends are limited to those with a particular style or body shape, the occasional must-have piece works across the board.This season? The kilt. A key style on the autumn/winter catwalks, it was re-imagined by everyone from Versace to Christopher Kane, providing universal appeal and plenty of ways to wear it– whatever your style clan.

Kilts for the classic dresser came from the likes of Clements Ribeiro and Daks, who created modestly cut styles in Scottish tartans and plaids. Both smart and warm, these make a savvy choice for winter workwear, worn with a neat sweater and lace-up brogues. Margaret Howell’s below-the-knee kilts were similarly sophisticated, while Christopher Kane’s camouflage jacquard ones provided a glamorous update on tartan.

Those after a little more edge will find kilts among the punk mood dominating this season. Tying in neatly with the Costume Institute’s recent “Chaos to Couture” exhibition, brands such as Moschino and Versace looked to punk icons such as Siouxsie Sioux, offering kilts customised with vinyl and chains, or plainer versions worn with a biker jacket and heavy platform boots.

Less subversive but still on the directional side are the mini-tartan styles as seen at Isabel Marant.Best suited to the younger kilt-wearerable to bare midriff and legs, cult Nineties films such as Clueless and Empire Records are the reference point. Think colourful thigh grazing kilts worn with preppy shirts or grungy knitted crop tops – but stay clear of Cher Horowitz’s knee-high socks to avoid looking like you’re straight out of the playground.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in