Nondiscrimination Post
The Scottish Country Shop is a proud purveyor of "traditional" and "historic" Scottish attire, which rather vaguely means c. 1500 until the Dress Act of 1746 made the wearing of "the Highland Dress" illegal in Scotland. We are honored to assist you in creating an authentic ensemble for your individual heritage.
That said, genetics are confusing -- and each of us is the product of choices by our ancestors, over which we had no say. We have access to some genealogy tools to help you identify your family history. But, no one at the Shop will every question your clan affiliation or challenge your "right" to wear any given pattern. We believe that anyone interested in Celtic cultures and traditions is welcome to experiment with tartans and kilts regardless of skin color, national origin, or actual genetic composition.
This period leading up to the 18th century also featured heavily "gendered" clothing -- with kilts, sporrans and hose for the men, and bodices, sashes and arisaids for the women. If women did wear "kilts," it tended to be longer "kilted skirts" with the opening of the outer flap on the opposite side from the men's. Nonetheless, the Shop is happy to outfit you as you feel is appropriate, regardless of your gender or sexual orientation. For example, a female athlete may prefer the fit or cut of a "man's" kilt. Or, the only kilt in stock for your son is labeled a "girl's" kilt, but it is otherwise the size and style you want. And usually, all members of a pipe band must match exactly (regardless of sex).