How to Measure for a Kilt?

Measuring for a kilt is an important step in ensuring a proper fit. Here are the steps to measure for a kilt:


Waist Measurement:

The waist measurement is the first measurement you need to take when measuring for a kilt. To take this measurement, you will need a measuring tape. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Find Your Waist: A traditional kilt is worn higher than pants, just above the belly button, usually around your navel. For larger individuals, it should sit above the widest part of the belly.
  • Take the Measurement: Use a good sewing tape measure, make sure that the measuring tape is snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit a finger between the measuring tape and your skin. Wrap it around your waist at the chosen position. This measurement will likely be 2 to 4 inches more than your pants size.

Hip Measurement:

The hip measurement is the second measurement you need to take when measuring. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Locate Your Hips: Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your hips.
  • Take the Measurement: Use a tape measure and wrap it around the widest part of your hips. Ensure the tape is taut and parallel to the ground.

Length Measurement:

The length measurement is the third measurement you need to take when measuring, here are the steps to follow:

  • Determine the Length: A traditional kilt length equals the distance between your waist and mid-knee. If you plan to wear a wide kilt belt, add 2 inches to this measurement for a high-rise waist.
  • Measure Down the Side of Your Leg: Stand straight and measure from the top of where your kilt will be to the middle of your knee.
  • Adjust the Length: If using a towel, fold it to 24 inches and hold it against your waist. If it hits below your knee, shorten the towel; if it hits above your knee, lengthen the towel.
  • Measure Without Assistance: Kneel on the floor with your back straight and measure down the side of your leg to the floor.

kilt measuring size


Now that you have taken your waist, hip, and length measurements, you can use these measurements to determine the size of your kilt. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Determine the size of your kilt based on your waist measurement. Most kilts are sized in even numbers, so if your waist measurement is an odd number, round up to the nearest even number.
  • Determine the size of your kilt based on your hip measurement. If your hip measurement is larger than your waist measurement, use your hip measurement to determine the size of your kilt.
  • Determine the length of your kilt based on your length measurement. The length of your kilt should be the same as the distance from your waist to the top of your knee.
  • Try on your kilt to make sure that it fits properly. The kilt should sit comfortably on your waist and hips, and the bottom of the kilt should fall at the top of your knee.

After taking these measurements, you can buy the perfect kilt. It's important to measure carefully, as kilts are custom-made to fit the provided measurements, and mistakes in measuring may not be refundable.