US Navy Tartan Ancient Kilts
Celebrate both heritage and service with the US Navy Tartan Ancient Kilt, a traditional Highland garment crafted for authenticity. The Ancient Kilt is the earliest recognizable form of the kilt, consisting of a long length of tartan fabric that you pleat and wrap by hand, securing with a belt. This versatile style allows you to drape the upper half as a cloak, sash, or shoulder wrap—just as Highland warriors once did.
Available in homespun wool blend for a rustic, historically accurate texture, or in premium wool (lightweight or medium weight) woven in Scotland for durability and refined finish. Each kilt is made in the USA, tailored to your measurements, and designed to last for years of wear.
Key Features:
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Official US Navy Tartan
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Choose homespun wool blend or premium wool (lightweight or medium weight)
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Made in the USA with wool tartans woven in Scotland
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Traditional Ancient Kilt design – pleated and belted by hand
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The upper half can be worn as a sash, cloak, or draped wrap
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Perfect for reenactments, Navy events, Highland games, or formal occasions
What is an Ancient Kilt?
- The Ancient Kilt is a single-width (26-30” wide) piece of tartan fabric, usually 6–10 yards long.
- Instead of being tailored or sewn, it is gathered and belted around the waist, with the upper half draped over the shoulder, wrapped around the body, or used as a cloak.
How It Differs from Other Kilts
- Ancient Kilt vs. Great Kilt – The Ancient kilt is 27-30” wide with 4-6 yards pleated and the rest thrown over the shoulder. The Great kilt is 54-60” wide with the bottom half pleated and the top gathered up at the shoulder.
- Ancient Kilt vs. Phillabeg – The Phillabeg (“little kilt”) is essentially the lower half of the Ancient Kilt, without the upper portion that drapes over the shoulders.
- Ancient Kilt vs. Modern Tailored Kilt – Modern kilts are shorter, sewn, and pleated permanently, while Ancient Kilts are just lengths of cloth gathered by hand each time they’re worn.
Sizing Options:
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6-yard kilt fits up to 38" waist
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8-yard kilt fits up to 48" waist
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10-yard kilt fits up to 60" waist
If you're close to the maximum for a size, consider sizing up for better pleating and comfort.
Pleating Options:
All kilts come with pleating instructions. Add Cheater Pleats™ to have your kilt pre-pleated and ready to wear. Please note: kilts with Cheater Pleats™ are considered custom orders.
Why Wear an Ancient Kilt?
- Historical Authenticity – Perfect for reenactments, Renaissance fairs, Highland games, and living history events.
- Traditional Look – Gives that rugged, Braveheart-style Highland warrior appearance.
Custom order. Please allow 2-10 weeks for delivery.
Notes regarding delivery times: We keep most homespun tartan in stock; expected delivery time is 2-4 weeks. Light & medium-weight tartan is special-ordered; please allow for a longer expected delivery time, about 5-10 weeks. If you have any questions about your order, please see our contact page for more support.
