US Navy Tartan Phillabegs – Homespun & Premium Wool
The US Navy Tartan Phillabeg is a timeless Highland style that bridges tradition with practicality. Unlike a full Great Kilt, the Phillabeg (or “little kilt”) consists of a pleated lower half, belted at the waist, making it lighter and easier to wear while still offering authentic Scottish flair.
Made in the USA using tartans woven in Scotland, this kilt is available in your choice of homespun wool blend for a rustic, handwoven look, or premium wool (lightweight or medium weight) for a refined finish. The Phillabeg gives you the flexibility of a traditional garment without the extra bulk of the upper drape, making it ideal for Highland games, reenactments, and Navy heritage events.
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 Scottish-woven tartans
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Classic Phillabeg style – pleated lower half, belted at the waist
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Comfortable, versatile, and historically inspired
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Perfect for Navy events, reenactments, and everyday Celtic wear
Size Chart
5 yard Phillabeg will fit up to about a 44 inch waist.
6 yard Phillabeg will fit up to about a 54 inch waist.
8 yard Phillabeg will fit up to about a 72 inch waist.
**for deeper pleats, choose next size up
What is a Phillabeg?
The phillabeg (also spelled phille-bheagh or feilidh-beag, meaning “little kilt”) is the ancestor of the modern tailored kilt. It’s essentially the bottom half of a Great Kilt, made from a single-width length of tartan (about 30 inches wide) that is pleated and belted around the waist.
Unlike the Great Kilt, which uses double-width tartan (up to 60 inches wide) and includes extra fabric to drape over the shoulders, the Phillabeg has no upper half. That means no extra bulk above the belt and a much cooler, lighter garment.
You can add the optional Cheater Pleats™ (so you don’t have to pleat it fresh every time you wear it) and include straps and buckles for a secure fit.
Why Choose a Phillabeg Instead of a Great Kilt?
- Less Expensive – Requires half the tartan of a Great Kilt.
- Cooler to Wear – Perfect for summer weather, festivals, or warmer climates.
- More Comfortable – Lightweight, easy to move in, and less fabric to manage.
- Historical Look – Still very traditional, but without the extra drape.
If you want the full Outlander-style Highland look, the Great Kilt is the way to go. But if you live somewhere hot (say, Texas in July) or want a lighter, more practical kilt for reenactments, Highland
