CLOTHING:
The Highland clothing of the period was really quite simple for all but
those at the top of the Clan structure. These were mostly people considered
poor by the rest of Great Britain, and they made almost everything they
wore. Fabrics in use were extensively linen and wool. Silk and cotton
were expensive and less common. No other fabrics were worn. This is very
basic and general clothing information. When assembling your clothing,
keep in mind the class and vocation of the person you portray, the year,
and the climate where they lived. The members of your Clan or unit will
gladly work with anyone who needs help or guidance. (back
to top)
18th
CENTURY SHOES AND FOOTWEAR:
There are many ways to come up with what appear to be mid 18th Century
shoes. Any moderate sized used clothing store has shoes which can be reworked
(with a little imagination) into 18th Century foot wear. Gillies are very
easy to make. Discount stores sell shoes which, with the addition of buckles
from a fabric store, can well suffice. You might even consider covering
something you already have. What is not acceptable are any shoes which
clearly look modern, like tennis shoes, work, or hiking boots. Neither
are Native American moccasins, fur covered mukluks, or Birkenstock type
sandals a good alternative. Additional information is listed under men's
and women's clothing. (back to top)
EYEGLASSES,
WATCHES, JEWELRY AND SKIN ART:
Many people who wear glasses do not have 18th Century frames. We understand
that people make the best of what they have. If at all possible, any round
style lense in a metal frame (not gold) would be good. This is something
you may want to think about if you plan upon portraying the 18th Century
very often. Reproduction frames have become very reasonable in price.
Please do not wear sunglasses. Jewelry should be appropriate to the time
period, and especially to the character you portray. Remember to remove
wristwatches and modern earrings or rings. Pocket watches were carried
by the upper classes. Most of the Celtic jewelry on the market today would
be inappropriate for 1745. Tattoos (a concern expressed by some who have
them) would not be appropriate, but should not be a problem because properly
dressed men and women would only have skin exposed on the face and hands
(well yes, knees too on men). Woad was not being painted on in 1745. (back
to top)
FAMILY
TARTANS AND TARTAN MATERIAL:
Family tartans, as we know them today, were unheard of in the mid 18th
Century. Some families wore similar colors or patterns, but the "this
and only this is your family tartan" phenomenon began in the19th Century.
If you feel strongly about wearing a piece of family tartan, go ahead.
Modern family tartan
is exorbitantly priced and rarely an appropriate weight for this time
period. Consider wearing a kilt or clothing made from something without
a pedigree. You can pick up tartan at fabric stores or bargain bins for
as little as $2 a yard. You will not be nearly as squeamish about the
abuse it may take as you are with family tartan at $50 to $100 a yard.
Darker, earth tones are good; remember the colors were dyed from local
plants and the garment was sometimes used as camouflage. Brown, green,
blue, purple, and rust are common. Bright reds were expensive and less
common. Men are encouraged to wear many different tartans at the same
time (coat, waistcoat, kilt, socks all different), as this is the most
authentic.
(back to top)
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