The Small Kilt

In the 18th century, Thomas Rawlinson, an English ironworks owner in Inverness, commissioned a Small Kilt inspired by the Great Kilt but without its upper part.

His new design featured a tailored fit with sewn-in pleats, making it a less cumbersome alternative for his workers. This innovation marked the earliest documented instance of the Small Kilt, or Walking Kilt, which remains distinguished by its sewn-in pleats today. The idea that an Englishman invented the kilt has been contested, as it challenges traditional Scottish pride. Nonetheless, Rawlinson’s design quickly gained popularity, especially after its adoption by the Highland Regiments of the British Army, before becoming accessible to civilians.

How the Small Kilt Came into Being

Historical events significantly influenced the evolution of the kilt, notably the Dress Act of 1746. This act was implemented following the Battle of Culloden and the defeat of the Jacobite Rebellion, with the government banning Highland dress to prevent further uprisings. This prohibition period underscores the kilt’s resilience and cultural significance as a symbol of defiance and national identity.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the kilt transformed into an emblem of Scottish pride. Its more refined and tailored fit made it suitable for formal occasions such as weddings and Highland gatherings. Concurrently, tartan patterns became more systematised, allowing for the creation of clan-specific tartans. Wearing one’s clan tartan evolved into a powerful statement of loyalty and heritage, reinforcing a sense of identity among Scots.

Personally, having worn the Small Kilt as part of my military uniform in the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, I developed a profound appreciation for its cultural and emotional significance. The pride associated with wearing the kilt is something that resonates deeply with me and many others who have donned this traditional attire.

At Thistle and Cloth, our mission is to pay homage to the kilt’s rich history and the journey of tartan. We aim to encourage future generations to wear tartan with pride, recognising its historical significance and the sense of identity it fosters. By celebrating the kilt’s past and enduring legacy, we hope to inspire a renewed appreciation for this iconic symbol of Scottish heritage.

With its practical design and cultural symbolism, the Small Kilt has become an integral part of Scottish identity. Its evolution from a functional garment for workers to a revered symbol of national pride underscores its importance in Scotland’s cultural tapestry. At Thistle and Cloth, we honour this legacy and strive to keep the tradition alive for future generations.