Where To Buy Kilts: A Realistic Guide For First-Time (and Returning) Shoppers
Buying a kilt isn’t really like buying a pair of jeans. You don’t just grab your size, pick a wash, and head to the checkout. There’s a bit more to it—more tradition, more variation, and, often, more questions than you expected. I remember the first time I looked into it. I thought, This should be straightforward. It wasn’t. At least, not at first.
So if you’re wondering where to buy kilts—or more specifically, where to buy kilts in the USA or even how to buy kilts online—you’re definitely not alone. There’s a lot out there. Some good, some… not as much. Let’s try to make sense of it, together.
Start With The Basics: What Kind of Kilt Are You Looking For?
Before we dive into where to buy kilts, it might help to pause and think about what you’re actually shopping for.
Are you looking for a traditional wool tartan kilt—like the kind worn at weddings or Highland games? Or maybe a more modern utility kilt with pockets, built for comfort and function? Leather kilts, hybrid styles, custom tartans… there are more options than people realize.
And that decision changes where you should look.
Some retailers specialize in formalwear. Others are better suited for casual, everyday kilts. And some offer both, but maybe lean heavier toward one side. It’s not always obvious at first glance.
Buying Kilts Online: The Pros, The Cons, and What to Watch Out For
These days, most people buy kilts online. It’s convenient, you get access to more variety, and you can take your time comparing styles and prices without someone hovering over your shoulder. That said—there are a few things I wish someone had told me early on.
1. Sizing isn’t standard.
Kilt sizing is not the same as pant sizing. Kilts typically sit higher on the waist, often near the belly button, which means your usual jeans size might be way off. Most quality kilt shops will give you clear instructions on how to measure properly. Follow those, even if it feels tedious.
2. Fabric weight and quality vary. A lot.
Some kilts are made from 16 oz wool. Some are lightweight acrylic. Some utility kilts are cotton, others polyester. None of that is necessarily bad—but it’s worth knowing what you’re paying for. Photos don’t always show quality, so you’ll need to read carefully. If a kilt looks too good to be true for $40… it probably is.
3. Reviews matter.
I know, it’s obvious. But with kilts—especially custom or made-to-order ones—real buyer reviews can give you insight into not just the product, but the company itself. Did it arrive on time? Did it fit right? How was the stitching, the pleating, the fabric feel? These details often don’t make it into the product description, but they matter.
Where To Buy Kilts Online: Some Options Worth Exploring
Now, let’s get to the point. If you’re trying to buy kilts online, especially in the USA, here are a few directions to consider:
1. Specialist Kilt Retailers (Made-for-Purpose Sites)
These are your go-to if you’re looking for a serious kilt. Formal tartan styles, custom measurements, authentic fabric options—this is where the real depth is.https://menskiltoutfit.com/
- Mens Kilt Outfit – A solid option if you’re looking for customizable tartan kilts, utility kilts, hybrid kilts, leather kilts, fly plaids, or more modern kilt types. The process feels tailored but not overwhelming, and they clearly care about detail. Their site doesn’t feel rushed, which I appreciate.
- USA Kilts – Based in Pennsylvania, and a great choice if you want U.S.-based support but still value traditional craftsmanship. They offer both made-to-measure and off-the-rack styles.
- Heritage of Scotland / Scotland Shop – If you’re comfortable with international shipping, these UK-based shops offer a broad selection and deep tartan databases.
What these shops usually get right is consistency. You might pay a little more, but it tends to come with better fit, better fabric, and better support.
2. General Marketplaces (Etsy, Amazon, etc.)
You can buy kilts on Amazon or Etsy. And honestly, depending on what you need, that might be fine.
- Amazon – Good for quick purchases or budget utility kilts. Just be cautious: quality is hit or miss, and sizing is rarely perfect.
- Etsy – Surprisingly, there are skilled kiltmakers here, offering custom handmade kilts with great attention to detail. The experience feels more personal—but also, occasionally slower.
If you’re shopping through a marketplace, it helps to know what you’re looking for ahead of time. Otherwise, the sheer number of options can get overwhelming fast.
3. Local or Regional Kilt Shops in The USA:
If you’re lucky enough to live near a store that sells kilts, definitely stop in. It’s the best way to try things on, get measured correctly, and ask questions face to face. Some larger cities have shops that cater to the Scottish-American community, especially around festival time.
That said, even if you’re not near one, some of these brick-and-mortar shops also have solid websites. Worth a look.
A Few Final Considerations Before You Buy:
Even once you’ve figured out where to buy kilts, there’s still a bit of decision-making ahead.
- Do you want a full outfit or just the kilt?
Some sites offer full packages—kilt, belt, sporran, hose, flashes, jacket. Others sell pieces individually. A full outfit can save you money, but you’ll need to like all the components. - Are you okay with waiting?
Kilts are typically made in 4–8 weeks, so if you need one for an event, plan ahead. You can also choose Mens Kilt Outfit, which delivers custom kilts within 2 weeks. - Do you want something truly traditional—or something more personal?
Some people care deeply about tartan heritage, family connections, and historical accuracy. Others just want something that feels good and looks right. Both approaches are valid. Just be clear about your goals when choosing your source.
Final Thoughts:
Buying a kilt, especially if it’s your first, isn’t always a fast process—but that’s kind of what makes it satisfying. It’s one of those rare garments where the experience of choosing it is as important as the wearing itself. Or maybe that’s overstating it a bit. Still, there’s a sense that you’re investing in something meant to last.
So whether you decide to buy kilts online, through a local shop, or from a specialist in the USA, take your time. Ask questions. Read the small print. Double-check your measurements.
Because when the right kilt arrives, and you put it on for the first time… you’ll know. It just feels right. Not perfect, perhaps. But definitely yours.
