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Why it is important to order a kilt early Ordering a kilt early is important for several reasons: Availability:  During busy times of the year, such as wedding season, Christmas holidays, and Robbie Burns Night , kiltmakers are are busy custom making kilts for customers all over the world!  Ordering early ensures you have your custom kilt ready for your event. Stock levels:  Tartan inventory levels can be affected by popularity of kilts, especially during busy times.  The mill doesn’t necessarily stock every tartan either- and some tartans are special weave only!  Ordering early helps you … Read More

Why you should attend a piping school in Scotland Attending a piping school in Scotland offers a unique opportunity to learn and perform traditional Scottish bagpiping.  It also provides a fantastic reason to have a memorable trip to the magical place of Scotland!   Visiting the wonderful cities such as Edinburgh or Glasgow, or the Highlands – Scotland is a great place to visit. Here are some reasons to consider planning a trip for some “Vacation Piping” as we like to call it here at Highland Shoppe.   Skill Development:  Students learn to the play the Pipes, develop skills for work and life, and build life skills such as resilience, … Read More

Properly measuring for a kilt is crucial for several reasons: Style and Comfort :   A well-fitted kilt enhances your style and provides comfort.  It prevents the kilt from sagging or riding up, which can be uncomfortable and unflattering. Fit:  Accurate measurements ensure the kilt sits comfortably on your waist and hangs correctly, contributing to an elegant look. Tailoring:  Tailors can make adjustments to the kilt based on the measurements taken, ensuring a perfect fit. Avoiding discomfort:  An ill-fitting kilt can … Read More

Kilts can be pleated to either the sett or the stripe. Pleating to sett is the pattern running across the pleats to give it the same appearance as the front of the kilt. Pleated to the stripe is the stripe running down each pleat normally this is the most prominent stripe in the pattern. Generally, the public would have their kilts pleated to sett and the military (pipe bands, etc) would have their kilts pleated to stripe. However this does … Read More

  Choosing the perfect kilt for an event depends on the occasion, the level of formality, and your personal style. Here’s a handy guide to get you started: 1. Formal Events Opt for a traditional tartan kilt that represents a family clan, region, or simply a pattern you admire. Pair it with a Prince Charlie jacket, waistcoat, dress sporran, and a bow tie for a truly formal look. Footwear: Black leather ghillie brogues with long socks and flashes. 2. Semi-Formal … Read More

A tweed jacket pairs beautifully with a kilt for a number of reasons: Traditional Look: Tweed is a classic, traditional fabric in Scottish attire. It has deep historical roots and complements the kilt’s heritage. Wearing a tweed jacket with a kilt pays homage to Scottish culture and heritage. Versatility: Tweed is a highly versatile fabric that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It adds a sophisticated yet rustic look, making it suitable for both formal and … Read More

The McCallum Kintyre Practice Chanter has received positive feedback from both beginners and experienced pipers. Users appreciate its durability, clear tone, and design that closely resembles a traditional pipe chanter. The innovative watertrap system allows for extended practice sessions without interruption. Notably, Willie McCallum, a renowned piper, used this chanter to secure his 9th Glenfiddich Championship title. Pipers commend its durability, sound quality, and appearance. One reviewer noted, “Really love this chanter, plays crisp, it’s durable, reed replaces easily… Goes … Read More

  Kilts are traditional Scottish garments worn by men, typically made of woolen cloth in a tartan pattern. The kilt is a knee-length skirt-like garment, pleated at the back, and usually fastened with buckles or straps. It is often worn with a sporran (a small pouch worn at the front), a belt, knee-high socks, and sometimes a jacket or vest. Kilts are a significant part of Scottish culture and history, often worn during formal events, celebrations, or special occasions such … Read More

Why a Bagpiper is a Must-Have for Any Scottish Wedding When planning a Scottish wedding, the list of traditions and symbols to include is vast and meaningful, from kilts and tartans to ceilidh dancing. Yet, one element stands out as the most iconic and unforgettable: the bagpiper. Here’s why having a bagpiper at your wedding is not just a delightful addition but a must-have for any authentic Scottish celebration. 1. An Unmistakable Symbol of Scottish Heritage The bagpipe is one of … Read More

Robbie Burns Night is just around the corner!  This evening of celebration really does come fast after the holidays.  We are now taking bookings for Robbie Burns Nights January 2025.  Whether you want to reserve 1 piper (Bill or Jeanie) or as a duo , now is the time to book!  Our dates fill up fast and since there are only two of us, our calendar fills quickly. Looking to host your own Burns Night but not sure where to … Read More

Our kilts are woven and made in Scotland.  What are the benefits of buying your kilt from us locally here in Calgary, as opposed to purchasing online from the UK?  Let me begin by recounting TWO gents I dealt with this week.  “Mac” (not his real name)  was in a panic looking to rent a Mackenize kilt for his upcoming wedding in a few days.  He had ordered on line directly from a UK  supplier.  He also measured himself. The … Read More

A custom made kilt should be very comfortable to wear – some might say even more comfortable than a suit!  However, it is very important to make sure you are providing accurate measurements to the kilt maker….otherwise there will be disapointment in the fit.  This is especially important for a heavy 8 or 9 yard kilt.  The quality and luxurious 8 yard kilt is heavy, but when measured and fitted properly it is a wonderful kilt to wear.  However, inaccurate … Read More

We get this question all the time, what is the difference between the 8 yard kilt and the 5 yard kilt?  The answer is obvious in the name, as there is more tartan “yardage” is in the 8 yard kilt.  However, let’s highlight a few key differences to help make your purchase easier.  The 8 yard kilt is HEAVY, especially if it is made in the 16 oz. strome weight.   Some people love this heavy weight, others are shocked by … Read More