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From Sporran to Sgian-dubh: Mastering the Accessories for Your Cornish Kilt

Welcome, fellow enthusiasts of Cornish heritage and style! You've chosen the bold, beautiful statement of a Cornish Kilt—perhaps in the classic National Cornish Tartan, the striking Hunting/Mourning Tartan, or the vibrant St. Piran's Flag Tartan.


But your journey into Celtic sartorial splendour doesn't end with the kilt itself. To truly honour the tradition and achieve that polished, authentic look, you need to master the art of accessories. These aren't just add-ons; they are essential, functional, and steeped in history.


Here is your guide to completing your Cornish kilt outfit, from head to toe (or, more accurately, from waist to ankle).

1. The Essential Pouch: The Sporran


The kilt is a piece of un-pocketed outerwear. Enter the Sporran—the essential pouch and the most visible accessory after the kilt itself.


What is it?


The word sporran is Gaelic for "purse." This is your functional, three-dimensional pocket for your keys, wallet, phone, and maybe a few coins for a proper Cornish pasty.


How to Choose & Wear It:

  • Day Sporran (Casual): Often made of simple leather (brown or black) with minimal ornamentation. Perfect for ceilidhs, festivals, or casual gatherings.



  • Dress Sporran (Formal): Features a metal cantle (top frame), often highly decorated with Celtic knotwork or an engraved Cornish symbol (like a skull and crossbones or St. Piran's cross), and is backed with fur (horsehair, sealskin, or modern synthetic alternatives). This is a must for weddings, formal dinners, and black-tie events.

  • Placement: The sporran should hang central to the front of the kilt, just below the belt buckle. It should be worn with its own chain strap, even if you are wearing a kilt belt.

2. The Finishing Touch: The Kilt Pin


A small detail that makes a big difference in both appearance and function.


What is it?


A weighted, decorative pin that is attached to the outer, bottom corner of the kilt's front apron.


How to Choose & Wear It:


  • Function: Its primary purpose is to add weight to the apron and prevent it from blowing open in a stiff breeze (which, let's face it, is common along the Cornish coast!).

  • Style: Choose a pin with a deep connection to Cornwall— The St Justin sword and shield is a great visual piece with a connection to Cornwall.

  • Placement: Attach it only to the front apron panel, piercing both layers of fabric. Do not pierce the inner apron; the pin should allow the two layers to move independently.

3. The Hidden Blade: The Sgian-dubh (Pronounced: 'Skee-an Doo')


This small, ceremonial dagger is an iconic accessory.


What is it?


The Sgian-dubh is a small, single-edged knife, traditionally worn tucked into the top of the hose. The name translates to "black knife," referring either to the handle's colour or its concealed nature.


How to Choose & Wear It:


  • Safety First: In modern usage, a simple, non-sharpened letter-opener style blade or a completely synthetic blade is often preferred, especially when travelling or attending events with security checks.

  • Style: The hilt is usually ornate and delicately decorated.

  • Placement: It is always worn tucked into the top of your kilt hose, on the outside of your dominant leg (the one you write with). The hilt and decorative handle should be clearly visible.

4. The Foundation: Kilt Hose and Flashes



These items bring colour, texture, and structure below the hemline.


  • Kilt Hose (Socks): These are long, thick, turn-over socks that come just below the knee. They are traditionally cream, white, or a solid colour that complements the main colour in your tartan.

  • Kilt Flashes: These are small, elasticised garters with decorative fabric "flashes" hanging down. They hold your hose up just below the knee. For a Cornish Kilt, flashes in black and white (representing the St. Piran's Flag) or a colour matching the stripe in your tartan are the most popular choices.

5. The Top Half: Belt, Buckle, and Jacket


A few final touches to complete the ensemble:


Accessory Description Cornish Style Tip

Kilt Belt A wide leather belt (usually 2-3 inches) Opt for the Celtic knot black

worn outside the kilt. leather belt.


Buckle A large, ornate buckle worn with the belt. Choose a design with the Cornish Knot or a Tree of Life.

Jacket Depending on the formality: Often worn in black or

a Prince Charlie (formal evening wear) charcoal-grey to make the

or an Argyll (day/semi-formal). tartan 'pop'.


By pairing your authentic Cornish Kilt with these traditional, high-quality accessories, you are not just wearing an outfit; you are making a statement about your heritage and embracing a timeless tradition.


Come and explore our full range of Sporrans, Kilt Pins, and traditional accessories, all designed to perfectly complement your Cornish Kilt!


Ready to complete your look?



01579 384468


Chequettes Hall

Church Street

Callington

Cornwall

PL17 7AN

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