The kilt is a key piece of scottish history and is easily identified all over the world, representing Scotland and our history. The kilt is celebrated globally during variations of special occasions and what we know as our national dress has such a rich history behind it most aren’t aware of. This blog covers a little bit of history on the kilt and where it all began. Where did tartan come from? – Tartan was derived from plain tweed/wool cloth, this was commonly used as threads were weaved together to create a warm durable fabric. Tartan uses the same technique with alternating coloured thre ..read more

As the sun makes more of an appearance in the grey British weather, wedding season is just on the horizon. We can see it now, the sun shining and families dressed to the 9s for your special occasions this upcoming 2024 wedding season and what a busy year ahead we have. With that in mind this post covers why to consider wearing a kilt outfit to your next special occasion and look your very best in the most premium highland wear we have to offer. 2024 grooms- As wedding season approaches we understand the excitement and stress that’s filling 2024 grooms at the moment as your big day is upcomin ..read more

A kilt jacket is one of the most universal pieces of clothing a man can own. Originating from the 17th century, kilt jackets have survived the test of time in fashion and are traditional attire in a highland wear outfit. But what actually is a kilt jacket? how is it different to a normal formal jacket, well this post covers all things kilt jackets including, differences, styling, origins, styles and bespoke jackets. What is the difference between a kilt jacket and normal jacket?- A kilt jacket is traditionally identified as a key part of highland wear attire, designed to compliment a kilt a ..read more

Ceilidhs are an entertaining and key aspects of Scotland’s culture, celebrated all year round. Ceilidhs bring Scots and people together to celebrate, dance and unite in Scottish music and dance. Ceilidhs are a great place to embrace Scotland’s national dress by swinging your kilt on the dance floor. This blog covers what you could wear to a ceilidh. What actually is a Ceilidh?– If you have never been to a ceilidh your probably wondering what actually is it?, well a ceilidh is a little different from your usual party dancefloor. Ceilidhs can happen all year around or on special occasions some ..read more

Ghillie brogues are a key piece of Scotland’s national dress, no highland wear outfit is complete without some nicely tied ghillie brogues. When a man is faced with tying his first pair of ghillie brogues it can be confusing, especially with those extra long laces and no shoe tongue, its easy to get confused trying to tie your ghillie brogues. But this guide covers how to securely tie your ghillie brogues to be looking your finest for your occasions. WHAT ARE GHILLIE BROGUES ? Ghillie brogues are traditionally styled as part of a kilt highland wear outfit. Ghillie brogues originate from Scot ..read more

Kilts have been around for centuries and are a key part of Scottish culture and identity. But what do we actually know about them?, well there are lots of well accredited tartan and kilt specialists who research everything we know and aim to know about tartans and kilts. This blog covers the basic kilts facts everything you need to know. How to wear a kilt- A complete kilt outfit is many pieces and even though there is no kilt police. There is a correct order and way to put them on. This is how to put on a kilt: 1- Firstly put your shirt, cufflinks and socks on. Your kilt socks should sit ..read more

Investing in a kilt is just like investing in a good suit, quality and longevity are going to be big factors. Buying a kilt is something that takes great thought and consideration, it is better to buy once and have it last your a life time than buying cheap and having to replace or hiring for each occasion. Buying a kilt is one of the most sustainable wardrobe staples you can buy, a traditional Scottish kilt is made from 100% wool (a natural resource), kilts are typically hand made and have been designed to last generations. Kilts can be worn to a wide array of events and often seen to be pass ..read more

It is approaching that time of year some dread and some wait for all year long for. The festive season unites everyone of all backgrounds and diversities in celebrating the beliefs and traditions we all partake in as a community. Gift giving is one of the most special parts of the festive season and for some this is easier than others, gift giving can be stressful for some and people can struggle to find good gift ideas that aren’t tackily Christmas themed or gimmicky. Well not to worry we offer a wide range of accessories and gifts ideal for the festive season, bringing a Scottish twist to th ..read more

When it comes to tartans there can be a lot of misconceptions and misleading information out there. For some people knowing what tartans are acceptable to wear is a blurry area. This blog covers the different types of tartan and the use of them as well as some common universal tartans ideas. Most people look for a family name tartan if they are of Scottish decent and there are thousands of clan and family name tartans with loads of variations. The tartan register holds records of all known registered tartans along with the rightful creators and owners. Aside from ranges of personal, royal tart ..read more

Kilts and tartan are part of the key identity of Scotland, enriched in our culture, our history, & our representation. At Houston kiltmakers we all know and love highland wear culture, we take pride in being a 4th generation family business with decades of experience and well knowledgable staff. But where did it all start? Kilts have been changing through time just like Scotland has and both have grown and changed so far over the years. This post covers the origins and history of the kilt in Scotland and why its an important aspect of Scottish culture. What is a kilt and where did they co ..read more