The Ghillie Shirt

[Tobus]

I say this with intended respect and civility, but I agree that the ghillie shirt is very costume-ish and anachronistic. Even if we set aside the immediate connection to pirate costumes (which, let's be honest, most people will immediately see), at best it looks like an awkward attempt at a historical reenactment item. This style of shirt did not evolve continuously with the modern kilt, and there seems to be some question as to whether the modern ghillie shirt is in any way accurate to historical shirts. This general style died out and was then resurrected by some well-meaning (I would hope) enthusiasts some time in the 1970s, as far as I can tell. But it is a style of shirt that seems to pair better with a belted plaid style, which of course is also anachronistic today.

I did own a ghillie shirt long ago, and wore it long enough in my own home to realise how silly it made me look, then I packed it up and shipped it back. But that's just my personal preference relating to my personal sense of style; I would rather wear the kilt in the evolved tradition instead of trying to revive a fantasy style of dubious accuracy.

If you enjoy the looks of a ghillie shirt, by all means wear it. Just understand that the design comes with some controversy and can lead to some odd looks.