Angus County

[figheadair]

I just read a selection about the origin of kilts: "The Invention of Tradition" by Hugh Trevor-Roper (Columbia University). Wondering if anyone else has seen this and what your thoughts are about it. Are these fightin' words?

Hugh Trevor-Roper - oh you mean he of the Hitler Diaries.

Based on what I'm reading, it seems that residents in the Angus area in the 1650s would most likely not have worn kilts; however, I've found engravings that depict men in kilt-like clothing. Does anyone have any idea about whether the kilt would have been a lowland tradition in this time frame? Would the plaids have been in use this early?

No, kilts (the feileadh beag at that date if it existed at all) and the feileadh mor (belted plaid)) was a Highland garment until the early 18th century and the visit of Goerge IV's visit to Scotland.

That's great information! How did women wear the tartan? Would it have been a dress, shawl, scarf, any of the above?

The answer depends on what timeframe, what social class the woman belonged to and where they lived, Highand or Lowland. Here's a starter for 10 - Musings on the Arisaid and other female dress.

[byrdfeeder]

Hugh Trevor-Roper - oh you mean he of the Hitler Diaries.

There may be a few people left that I haven't offended with that question. Please, be patient; I will get to you shortly. ;-) I seriously did not mean to offend, and apologize of I did.

No, kilts (the feileadh beag at that date if it existed at all) and the feileadh mor (belted plaid)) was a Highland garment until the early 18th century and the visit of Goerge IV's visit to Scotland.

The answer depends on what timeframe, what social class the woman belonged to and where they lived, Highand or Lowland. Here's a starter for 10 - Musings on the Arisaid and other female dress.

I appreciate your reply about the belted plaid, and women's attire. I especially was intrigued by the well documented article you linked. I have a lot to learn, and this information will provide hours of reading and investigation, something I will enjoy.