"Jacobite" garb

[Burly Brute]

We're not talking "kilts" per se, but rather "great kilts" - more properly termed belted tartan plaids. Most Scots did NOT wear them, but Highlanders did after at least the mid-1500s (first written reference is from the 1590s, which means they were most likely in use for awhile before someone sat down and wrote about 'em!). You can go with just a period shirt.

Any ol' moccasin kit will work (just cut the side flaps off these):
http://jas-townsend.com/product_info...roducts_id=246

Basically, you'll look like this:

My issue is that when I think kilt, it is the belted plaid that first comes to mind. And I know what you mean, in regards to the written references. To me the belted plaid just seems a bit too "evolved" to assume it wasnt earlier, but thats opinion based on...well, nothing. Thanks for the help!

[Woodsheal]

My issue is that when I think kilt, it is the belted plaid that first comes to mind. And I know what you mean, in regards to the written references. To me the belted plaid just seems a bit too "evolved" to assume it wasnt earlier, but thats opinion based on...well, nothing. Thanks for the help!

Right, the first definitive description dates to 1594 (I believe), with some earlier references that might refer to belted plaids.
Now, I find it hard to envision that some clansman first donned a "great kilt" in 1594, and some literate person was standing by to instantly report on the occasion! Logically, the practice of wearing such a garment had to have been in place for some time before it was described on paper - or parchment....

[Nick the DSM]

Can I forgo the doublet/jerkin? And in regards to the highland moccasins, where might one purchase/DIY a pair at a low cost? I know I have seen patterns and everyone on here, but that was several months ago and of course I did not write it down. And thanks!

I found one site that said the kilt was not the traditional clothing of the Scots in the 16th century...

Curran patterns.
http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...uarrans-69453/

[Ryan Ross]

It wasn't -- hadn't been invented yet. Nor had its forerunner the belted plaid, at least for most of that century, as far as written records can determine. Up through most of that century the Gael in Scotland still dressed just like those in Ireland. You'd want to wear a leine, ionar, and brat.

Long Live Long Shirts, as I like to say. Very comfortable.

[Dale Seago]

Right, the first definitive description dates to 1594 (I believe), with some earlier references that might refer to belted plaids.
Now, I find it hard to envision that some clansman first donned a "great kilt" in 1594, and some literate person was standing by to instantly report on the occasion! Logically, the practice of wearing such a garment had to have been in place for some time before it was described on paper - or parchment....

Totally agree. It may have been "new" to the person writing about the galloglaigh wearing this garment, but it had obviously already become customary among these warriors themselves. I'd say mid-century (circa 1550) is a reasonable point to assume its introduction in the Western Isles & Highlands.

Interestingly, mid-to-late 1500s seems to be the period where three things in particular became popular in the Highlands: the belted plaid, the baskethilt broadsword, and the Great Highland Bagpipe.

[Woodsheal]

Interestingly, mid-to-late 1500s seems to be the period where three things in particular became popular in the Highlands: the belted plaid, the baskethilt broadsword, and the Great Highland Bagpipe.

And, if anyone wants any early-type basket hilt appropriate to the Elizabethan/"RenFaire" period, ArmourClass makes one:

http://www.armourclass.co.uk/Data/Pa...Century_14.htm

The two-handed "claymore" would still be right for that timeframe, too....

[Burly Brute]

Long Live Long Shirts, as I like to say. Very comfortable.

It is my understanding that the shirts of the time reached below the groin, is this correct? And where does one purchase something of that nature today? It might be difficult for me either way as I am long-waisted.

[Woodsheal]

It is my understand that the shirts of the time reached below the groin, is this correct? And where does one purchase something of that nature today? It might be difficult for me either way as I am long-waisted.

Shirts were knee-length. These are affordable (recommend linen):

http://www.threadbarestitchery.com/1700s_Mens.htm

[Dale Seago]

Shirts were knee-length. These are affordable (recommend linen):

http://www.threadbarestitchery.com/1700s_Mens.htm

Finally, a real "Jacobite shirt". You could also call it the original kilt liner.

[Burly Brute]

Shirts were knee-length. These are affordable (recommend linen):

http://www.threadbarestitchery.com/1700s_Mens.htm

Finally!!! This is perfect! Thanks so much!