What we think of as a kilt began as a garment known as a belted plaid (also called feileadh-mhor or "a great kilt"), which was similar to a toga in that it covered the torso as well as the upper legs. Worn exclusively by men in the Scottish Highlands, the belted plaid was basically a piece of plaid, or checked, wool fabric known as tartan, that was tied around the waist with a rope or belt. The Highlanders, who lived in tribal groups known as...Continue Reading