Please explain the belt.

[GlassMan]

I got my favorite belt and buckle at the Hector Russel store in San Francisco while on a trip and it's great. I love the feel of it.

Humerously, I often teased my Texas relatives about the sizes of their belt buckles. You know the kind, the massive western-style belt buckes that are covered in decorations that they wear with jeans and the like.

Well, now I wear one that's almost as big but nowhere near as gaudy.

[The Wizard of BC]

The historical Kilt Belt is 2 1/2" to 3" and is not to hold up your kilt. In the past it was called a 'waistbelt' and went around and held in the jacket. Think Sam Brown Belt worn outside a military blouse. It was for hanging your sword or pistol.
The belt loops on Traditionals are not for the belt but for the sporran strap.
Nowadays, the Kilt Belt is for decoration only. Wear one if you like, or not.

Contemporary Kilts are usually designed with a waistband and you are supposed to wear a belt. Just as you do with trousers. But I haven't seen a man wear a pair of trousers loose enough to need a belt in many years. Again, it's mostly for show.

[jfellrath]

But I haven't seen a man wear a pair of trousers loose enough to need a belt in many years. Again, it's mostly for show.

You should watch MTV - you'll see plenty... ;)

At the tux shop in Edinburgh I visited when I was there, I was told (as I asked this very question) that there is NO requirement that a belt be worn, period. A kilt should fit just fine without it. If it doesn't... the kilt doesn't fit you.

[Sherry]

I think kilts look better & more masculine with some kind of a belt. I can understand not wanting one of the honking huge ones, but a belt gives a nice finish for a completed look.

Sherry