9 Must Have Accessories For Your Kilt
Wearing a kilt isn’t just about the kilt. That probably sounds obvious, or maybe not — maybe the first time you tried one on, it felt complete enough on its own. And it is, in a way. A kilt is a bold piece of clothing. It stands on its own.
But still, something feels missing without the extras.
The truth is, accessories don’t just add to a kilt outfit — they balance it. They bring it into context. Without them, the kilt can look unfinished, or like it’s missing its story. So whether you’re preparing for a formal event, a Highland gathering, or just experimenting with traditional wear, here are nine kilt accessories you might want to consider.
Not necessarily all at once. But… maybe more than you expected.
1. The Sporran (Yes, The Pouch Thing)
It’s probably the most recognizable accessory after the kilt itself — and also the one people are most unsure about.
Do you have to wear a sporran? Technically, no. But unless your kilt has pockets (some modern ones do), you’ll realize pretty fast that you need something. And the sporran isn’t just practical — it’s traditional. It sits right at the front, suspended from a chain or strap around your waist.
There are different types: day sporrans (simple leather), semi-dress (a mix of leather and fur), and full-dress (often ornate, for formal events). If you’re not sure which to choose, think about where you’ll be wearing your kilt. Or… just go with your gut. That’s okay too.
2. Kilt Hose (Basically Tall Socks)
Here’s something easy to forget: regular socks don’t really work with a scottish kilt. They’re too short, for one thing. And the look just feels… mismatched.
Kilt hose are knee-high wool socks, worn slightly scrunched just below the knee. They frame the lower part of the outfit and add texture. Most are cream or off-white, but they also come in charcoal, green, or other muted tones. Some people match them to their tartan, others contrast — there’s no strict rule.
Honestly, I didn’t think socks would matter until I tried wearing a kilt without them. It just looked off. Like the bottom half was forgotten.
3. Flashes (Those Little Ribbons That Peek Out)
These are the small pieces of fabric that stick out from under your kilt hose cuff — usually held in place by an elastic garter. They add color, often matching your tartan, and help keep your socks from sliding down (which they will do otherwise — gravity wins).
Flashes aren’t loud or flashy (despite the name), but they’re one of those subtle details that make the whole thing feel… deliberate.
Without them, the socks sometimes look like an afterthought.
4. The Belt and Buckle
Now, this one’s a bit more controversial. Some argue that a belt isn’t needed — especially if you’re wearing a waistcoat or Prince Charlie jacket. Others swear by it.
Functionally, a belt doesn’t usually hold up the kilt (most kilts fasten securely on their own). It’s more for style — a wide leather belt with a bold buckle can add visual weight and formality.
I’ve seen people wear belts with t-shirts and kilts for a more casual vibe, and it works. But for dressier settings, you’ll need to think about whether the belt complements or competes with the rest of the outfit.
Sometimes simpler really is better.
5. The Sgian Dubh (The Sock Dagger)
Yes — it’s a small knife. Yes, it traditionally goes in your sock. And no, you don’t actually need to carry a sharpened blade around with you.
The sgian dubh (pronounced “skee-an doo”) is worn tucked into the right kilt hose, with just the top of the handle showing. It has symbolic roots — originally a utility blade, later a mark of Highland hospitality and self-defense.
In modern times, especially at formal events, people often wear a dull or decorative version. It’s not about the weapon. It’s about the tradition.
That said, some events (especially flights or government buildings) may prohibit it. So check in advance — and maybe keep a spare sock without one, just in case.
6. Ghillie Brogues (Not Just Dress Shoes)
These are lace-up leather shoes with long laces that wrap around your ankles and tie just below the calf. They look distinctively… old-world, maybe. But there’s a reason they’re still used.
Originally designed for boggy Scottish terrain, ghillie brogues had no tongues so water could drain. Today, they’re more about formality and tradition than practicality — though they do look sharp with a full Highland outfit.
You can wear boots or modern shoes with kilts — especially utility kilts or less formal settings. But ghillie brogues still complete the “classic” look in a way that’s hard to replicate.
7. The Kilt Pin (Small but Important)
A kilt pin is a decorative piece of metal worn on the lower outer corner of the front apron. It doesn’t hold the kilt closed (that’s a common misconception), but it does help add a bit of weight to keep the fabric from flapping in the wind.
More than that, it’s a chance to personalize. Some kilt pins are simple. Others have Celtic symbols, clan crests, or even humorous motifs.
You can skip the pin — especially in casual wear — but if you do use one, place it right: about 2 inches from the bottom and a couple of inches from the edge. Not dead center. That looks… awkward.
8. A Jacket or Waistcoat (Depending on The Occasion)
This might be the one piece you don’t always need — but when the moment calls for it, it really pulls things together.
Prince Charlie jackets are the most formal — think black tie, weddings, and official ceremonies. Argyll jackets are a bit more versatile, suitable for both formal and semi-formal events. You can pair either with a waistcoat (vest), which adds structure and polish.
On the casual end, some people wear tweed jackets, military-style jackets, or even denim with a kilt. It depends on the style of kilt — tartan vs. utility — and the look you’re going for.
There’s a bit of room to bend the rules here, as long as the outfit feels balanced.
9. The Fly Plaid (The Over-the-Shoulder Statement)
This one’s a bit more dramatic — and not everyone wears it — but when done right, the fly plaid adds a striking, ceremonial flair. It’s essentially a length of tartan fabric, usually matching your kilt, that’s draped over the left shoulder and fastened with a brooch.
Historically, it harks back to the full great kilt, when kilts were longer and wrapped around the body and shoulder. Today, the tartan fly plaid is purely decorative — but it carries a strong sense of tradition and formality. You’ll mostly see it at weddings, Highland games, or formal events where full Highland dress is expected.
There’s no strict rule for how long the plaid should be, but it’s often pleated, with the fringed edge hanging down the back. It’s usually pinned to your jacket’s epaulet with a decorative plaid brooch, which can be as simple or ornate as you like.
It’s not exactly subtle. Wearing a fly plaid says, yes, I’m going full Highland regalia today. And sometimes, honestly, that’s part of the fun.
Final Thought: It’s All About Intent
Wearing a kilt isn’t a rigid formula. There’s tradition, yes — centuries of it — but also flexibility. Not every situation calls for the full set of accessories, and not every accessory needs to match perfectly.
You can build your kilt outfit slowly. Start with the essentials. Add as you go. Sometimes you’ll forget something. Sometimes you’ll wear too much. That’s okay.
The real goal isn’t to check off a list. It’s to wear the kilt in a way that feels considered — maybe even meaningful.
And if someone asks you about the sporran or flashes or your kilt pin, it’s nice to have a reason beyond “it came with the outfit.” Even if the real reason is just that you like how it looks.
