The kilt wouldn't be the kilt without the different items that go with it. Those being the sgian dubh, kilt pin, and the sporran. All of which help to fully bring the Highland Wear together. So what is the origins and purposes of these items that help elevate the kilt?
First off we'll start with the sgian dubh, of which this company is named after. It roughly translates to 'black knife', or 'hidden knife', it is believed to be a descendant of the sgian-achlais which was hidden under the arm-pit. Either in the upper sleeve or lining of the suit which was 17th century. Nowadays the sgian dubh is worn in the sock of a Scot while wearing a kilt. It is worn in the side of whichever hand is dominant, so if you are right handed then in the right side sock and vice versa. We have a varied range of sgian dubh's that can be chosen from, some recommendations are Ryan Thistle Matt Pewter Sgian Dubh, Glenfinnan Polished Pewter Sgian Dubh, Silver Thistle Daywear Sgian Dubh and plenty more on this website you can check out!
Now the kilt pin. It is associated with Queen Victoria as it is believed it was during her era in the 19th century that kilt pins became popularized. It's first and main use was to prevent the kilt from flapping about, keeping it safe from windy conditions. More recently though, although this is one of it's uses, it also has become a way to add some flair or style to the kilt. There is many different options for kilt pins to accessorize your kilt like the; Antler Kilt Pin, or Safety Pin Style Kilt Pin and even Scottish Thistle Sword Sterling Silver Kilt Pin, this is just a small look at our collection of which there is many different ones suited for all kinds of kilts!
The sporran can be dated back as early as the 12th century, while the clans were at battle, flaunting their kilts of course they needed some form of pocket to carry their weapons and essentials in the fights, but the kilt had no pockets. The easy solution was using skin, like one of the most popular was the deer, this made up the sporran. Nowadays the design isn't quite so sinister in it's use or purpose, it still holds the same idea of having stuff in the pocket however it is more of the everyday stuff, like glasses or keys. It does tend to be quite the style option still and we include some on our website as well like the Celtic Black Bovine Black Leather Sporran or Khaki Brown Pigskin Leather Sporran and of course others to choose from too!
These all provide some meaning to the kilt, adding to its glory and also the impact and history of them respectively. All of which truly build up the highland wear along with cufflinks, kilt buckles and pocket watches which we offer on our website too. So next time you've got your outfit on wondering what something your wearing does, at least now you can understand the history behind each item and see why its the image of Scotland.
