How to Measure for a Kilt?

To ensure your kilt fits perfectly, it's important to take accurate measurements. Follow our step-by-step guide to measure yourself correctly before placing your order. All you’ll need is a flexible measuring tape, a mirror (or a helping hand), and a few minutes.

1. Waist Measurement

The waist is the most essential measurement when sizing a kilt.

  • Where to Measure: Unlike trousers, a traditional kilt is worn higher—usually around your natural waist, which sits just above your belly button (the navel). For gentlemen with a fuller midsection, the kilt should rest above the broadest part of the stomach.
  • How to Measure: Wrap a sewing tape measure around this point, ensuring the tape is level all around your body. It should feel snug but not tight—you should be able to slip one finger between the tape and your waist comfortably.
  • Important Tip: This measurement is typically 2–4 inches larger than your jeans or trouser waist size, so don’t rely on your pant size alone.

2. Hip Measurement

The hip measurement ensures a proper drape and fit of the kilt around the seat and sides.

  • Where to Measure: Identify the fullest part of your hips or seat area. This is usually located around the top of your buttocks.
  • How to Measure: Stand straight and wrap the measuring tape around this point, keeping it level and parallel to the floor. The tape should be snug but not restrictive.

3. Fell Measurement

The fell is the distance from the waistline to the widest part of the hips, where the pleats are sewn down. This measurement helps achieve the correct proportion and structure in the back of a custom kilt.

  • How to Measure: Measure vertically from your waist (where you took the first measurement) down to your hip (where you took the second measurement).

4. Length Measurement

The length determines how far down the kilt will fall and is crucial for maintaining a traditional and flattering appearance.

  • Where to Measure From: Begin at the same waist point where you took your waist measurement.
  • Where to Measure To: Measure straight down to the middle of your kneecap. For a traditional look, the kilt should end right at the center of the knee.

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