The prevalent association of kilts with men, particularly within Scottish culture, often prompts inquiry regarding appropriate or traditional attire for women in similar contexts. The question addresses gendered clothing norms and seeks to understand equivalent or complementary garments worn by women. One example includes women wearing kilts, or tartan skirts as a respectful way to show support for the culture.
Understanding sartorial traditions offers insight into cultural history and social roles. Investigating clothing norms reveals shifts in societal expectations and the evolution of gender expression. Historically, women might have worn variations of tartan skirts or dresses as expressions of clan affiliation or cultural identity. The modern context allows for greater flexibility and personal expression in clothing choices.
The subsequent discussion will explore the multifaceted options available to women when considering culturally appropriate or personally meaningful attire in situations where kilts are typically worn by men. This includes examining variations on the kilt itself, as well as other traditional and contemporary garments that resonate with Scottish heritage and individual style.
1. Tartan skirts
Tartan skirts emerge as a central consideration when addressing attire for women in contexts where kilts are traditionally worn by men. This garment serves not merely as an alternative, but as a direct expression of cultural connection and heritage mirroring the kilt’s significance.
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Cultural Equivalence
Tartan skirts offer a parallel to the kilt in representing clan affiliation and Scottish heritage. The choice of specific tartan pattern demonstrates belonging and lineage. In formal or celebratory settings, wearing a tartan skirt signifies respect for tradition, aligning with the cultural purpose served by the kilt for men.
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Stylistic Versatility
Tartan skirts exhibit considerable stylistic flexibility. They are available in various lengths, from mini to maxi, and designs ranging from pleated to A-line. This diversity allows women to choose a skirt that complements their personal style while remaining within the bounds of cultural appropriateness. This stylistic freedom mirrors the adaptability observed in kilt styling with differing sporrans, jackets, and hose.
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Historical Context
Historically, variations of tartan skirts and dresses were common among women in Scottish society. While not precisely mirroring the modern kilt, these garments served as indicators of clan membership and social standing. Understanding this historical usage provides context for the continued relevance of tartan skirts as a culturally significant garment.
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Contemporary Adaptations
Modern designers have incorporated tartan into various skirt styles, creating contemporary interpretations of traditional garments. These adaptations range from subtle tartan accents to fully tartan skirts with modern cuts and detailing. This evolution ensures that tartan skirts remain relevant and appealing in contemporary fashion while upholding their cultural significance.
The multifaceted role of tartan skirts, from their representation of cultural equivalence to their stylistic versatility and historical grounding, demonstrates their significance in addressing the question of suitable attire for women when men wear kilts. The availability of both traditional and contemporary adaptations ensures the continued relevance of this garment as a meaningful expression of Scottish heritage and personal style.
2. Tartan trousers
Tartan trousers offer an alternative response to the question of appropriate female attire in environments where men wear kilts. This choice provides a modern interpretation of Scottish heritage while maintaining a connection to traditional fabrics and patterns.
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Gender Neutrality and Modernity
Tartan trousers present a gender-neutral option that aligns with contemporary fashion sensibilities. The garment transcends traditional gender norms associated with kilts, offering a choice that resonates with individuals seeking a modern expression of Scottish identity. The adoption of trousers signals a departure from historically gendered clothing roles while still incorporating a key element of Scottish sartorial heritage.
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Practicality and Versatility
Tartan trousers offer practical benefits, particularly in colder climates or situations requiring greater freedom of movement. Unlike kilts, trousers provide complete leg coverage, enhancing comfort and protection. The garments versatility extends to various settings, from casual gatherings to semi-formal events, where they can be paired with different tops and accessories to achieve the desired level of formality.
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Subversion of Expectation and Cultural Commentary
Wearing tartan trousers in a context where kilts are expected can be interpreted as a subtle subversion of traditional expectations. This choice can be seen as a statement, challenging conventional norms while still demonstrating an appreciation for Scottish culture. The garment becomes a form of cultural commentary, prompting reflection on gender roles and evolving traditions.
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Incorporation into Formal Attire
Tartan trousers can be incorporated into formal attire, providing an alternative to dresses or skirts at events where kilts are prevalent among men. Tailored tartan trousers, paired with a smart blazer or jacket, can create a sophisticated and culturally relevant ensemble. This demonstrates that tartan can be adapted to various levels of formality, maintaining its significance in diverse social settings.
The selection of tartan trousers demonstrates a deliberate choice to engage with Scottish heritage in a contemporary and adaptable manner. It addresses the core inquiry regarding appropriate female attire by offering a practical, versatile, and potentially subversive alternative that respects cultural tradition while embracing modern sensibilities.
3. Arisaid
The arisaid, a garment historically worn by women in the Scottish Highlands, holds a significant connection to the inquiry regarding appropriate female attire when men wear kilts. The arisaid predates the modern kilt and represents a foundational element of Highland dress for both genders. Its existence and function inform an understanding of traditional gender roles in clothing and provide a historical counterpoint to the later association of the kilt primarily with men. The arisaid served as a versatile, full-length garment, often made of wool tartan, functioning as both clothing and a form of portable shelter. Its disappearance as common female attire, coinciding with the kilt’s ascendance as a predominantly male garment, contributes to the modern-day query concerning equivalent female attire.
The modern relevance of the arisaid lies in its potential for reinterpretation. While not commonly worn in its original form today, the garment’s historical significance encourages the consideration of adaptations or inspirations drawn from its design. Contemporary designers and individuals seeking culturally relevant attire can draw upon the arisaid’s inherent connection to Scottish heritage, adapting its draping, material, or tartan patterns into modern dresses, shawls, or outerwear. These adaptations acknowledge the historical context and offer a respectful nod to a garment that once defined Highland dress for women.
In conclusion, the arisaid is more than a historical artifact; it offers insight into the evolution of Scottish Highland dress and the shifting gender associations within it. Its connection to the question of appropriate female attire when men wear kilts resides in its historical precedence, its functional versatility, and its potential to inspire contemporary adaptations that honor Scottish heritage while accommodating modern sensibilities.
4. Tartan shawls
Tartan shawls provide a versatile accessory that addresses the question of appropriate attire for women in contexts where men wear kilts. These shawls offer a nuanced way to engage with Scottish heritage, providing warmth, stylistic flexibility, and cultural representation without directly replicating male-centric garments.
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Symbolic Representation of Clan and Heritage
Tartan shawls, like kilts, serve as visual identifiers of clan affiliation. The selection of a specific tartan pattern allows women to express their lineage and connection to Scottish heritage. The shawl acts as a subtle yet meaningful declaration of cultural identity, comparable to the kilt’s function for men. This symbolic representation extends beyond clan membership, encompassing broader expressions of Scottish pride and cultural appreciation.
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Adaptability Across Formality Levels
Tartan shawls are adaptable to various levels of formality, rendering them suitable for a range of events. A lightweight tartan shawl can complement casual attire, adding a touch of Scottish flair. A larger, more elaborate shawl, perhaps made of fine wool or cashmere, can elevate a formal dress, providing both warmth and cultural relevance. This adaptability makes the shawl a practical and stylish choice for diverse social settings, mirroring the kilt’s versatility with differing sporrans and jackets.
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Integration with Contemporary Fashion
Tartan shawls readily integrate with contemporary fashion trends. They can be draped over jackets, sweaters, or dresses, adding a touch of heritage to modern ensembles. The shawl serves as an accessory that bridges traditional and contemporary styles, allowing women to express their personal aesthetic while maintaining a connection to Scottish culture. This integration provides a flexible alternative to more explicitly traditional garments.
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Gender-Neutrality and Inclusivity
While kilts are traditionally associated with men, tartan shawls offer a gender-neutral option that is inclusive of all individuals. The shawl’s inherent versatility allows for diverse interpretations and styling, transcending gendered clothing norms. This inclusivity makes the tartan shawl a welcoming choice for anyone seeking to express an appreciation for Scottish heritage, regardless of gender identity.
In conclusion, tartan shawls address the query regarding suitable female attire when men wear kilts by providing a versatile, culturally relevant, and gender-inclusive accessory. They offer a nuanced expression of Scottish heritage, adaptable to various levels of formality and readily integrated with contemporary fashion. The shawl’s symbolic representation of clan affiliation, combined with its practical benefits and stylistic flexibility, renders it a compelling option for women seeking to engage with Scottish culture in a meaningful way.
5. Clan representation
Clan representation forms a crucial element in understanding appropriate attire for women when men wear kilts. The kilt, historically, is deeply intertwined with clan identity, serving as a visual marker of lineage and allegiance. Therefore, addressing the question of what women wear in similar contexts necessitates considering how they, too, can express clan affiliation through their clothing choices.
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Tartan as a Visual Identifier
The tartan pattern is the primary visual identifier of a clan. When men wear kilts, they are explicitly displaying their clan tartan. For women, incorporating tartan into their attire, regardless of the specific garmentskirt, dress, shawl, or trousersserves the same purpose. The tartan acts as a symbol, communicating clan membership or affiliation. Real-world examples include women wearing tartan sashes at clan gatherings or tartan dresses at formal events, mirroring the kilt’s function for men.
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Beyond the Kilt: Alternative Garments
While the kilt is predominantly associated with men, it does not preclude women from expressing clan affiliation through other means. Women might opt for tartan skirts, dresses, or even accessories like scarves and brooches that feature their clan tartan. These choices provide alternatives to the kilt while maintaining the visual representation of clan membership. This is particularly relevant in modern contexts where women seek to express cultural identity without necessarily adhering to traditional gendered clothing norms.
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Symbolic Accessories and Embellishments
Clan representation extends beyond the primary garment. Women can utilize symbolic accessories and embellishments to showcase their clan affiliation. This includes wearing clan badges, crests, or jewelry featuring clan motifs. These details, when combined with tartan elements, amplify the expression of clan identity. Examples include wearing a clan crest brooch on a tartan shawl or a clan badge on a dress, effectively communicating clan membership even without wearing a kilt.
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Contextual Appropriateness and Modern Interpretations
The manner of clan representation varies depending on the context. Formal events might warrant more traditional expressions, while casual settings allow for greater stylistic freedom. Modern interpretations of clan attire might involve incorporating tartan into contemporary clothing designs, blending heritage with personal style. What is deemed appropriate or meaningful evolves over time. A woman might choose to wear a tartan-accented dress to a wedding or tartan leggings casually, balancing tradition with modernity to reflect their personal connection to their clan.
In summary, clan representation serves as a guiding principle in determining suitable attire for women when men wear kilts. The key lies in identifying and utilizing visual cuesprimarily tartan patterns and clan symbolsto express lineage and affiliation. The specific garments and accessories employed are secondary to the overarching goal of communicating clan membership, allowing for both traditional adherence and modern interpretations that respect both heritage and personal style.
6. Cultural events
Cultural events serve as focal points where the interplay between traditional attire and evolving gender norms becomes particularly evident. In gatherings celebrating Scottish heritage, the prevalence of kilts among men prompts observation and consideration of appropriate or complementary attire for women. The visual landscape of these events showcases a spectrum of sartorial choices, reflecting both adherence to tradition and individual expression. Highland games, ceilidhs, and clan gatherings exemplify cultural events where the significance of attire is heightened, and the query of suitable female garments gains particular relevance.
The observation of attire at cultural events provides valuable insight into the evolving interpretations of traditional dress. Women’s choices range from adaptations of the kilt itself to other garments incorporating tartan patterns, such as skirts, dresses, and shawls. Furthermore, accessories like clan badges and crests contribute to expressing cultural identity. The motivations behind these choices are multifaceted, reflecting a desire to honor heritage, express personal style, and negotiate gendered expectations. Examining photographic records and ethnographic studies of such events provides empirical evidence of these diverse approaches to culturally appropriate attire.
In conclusion, cultural events function as living laboratories where the dynamic relationship between tradition, gender, and individual expression unfolds. The question of suitable female attire when men wear kilts finds diverse and nuanced answers within these contexts. Understanding the choices made and the factors influencing those choices contributes to a broader appreciation of the evolving nature of cultural identity and its sartorial manifestations. The challenge lies in maintaining respect for tradition while fostering inclusivity and allowing for individual agency in self-expression.
7. Modern adaptations
The prevalence of kilts, predominantly associated with men, prompts consideration of women’s attire in similar cultural contexts. Modern adaptations reflect evolving social norms, influencing the options available to women seeking to express cultural affinity or participate in heritage-related events.
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Tartan Integration into Contemporary Fashion
Designers incorporate tartan patterns into modern clothing styles, moving beyond traditional kilts and skirts. This integration allows women to express Scottish heritage through contemporary dresses, trousers, jackets, and accessories. Examples include tartan-accented dresses at fashion shows or tartan blazers worn in professional settings, demonstrating versatility and relevance in modern wardrobes. These adaptations provide alternatives to traditionally gendered attire while maintaining a connection to Scottish culture.
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Reinterpretation of Traditional Garments
Historically female garments, such as the arisaid, inspire modern designs that incorporate draping, fabric, and tartan patterns. This reinterpretation results in contemporary dresses, shawls, and outerwear that acknowledge the historical context of Highland dress for women. Designers may adapt the arisaid’s design into a modern wrap dress or create outerwear with similar draping, paying homage to the past while meeting contemporary fashion needs. This allows women to connect to their heritage through updated styles.
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Gender-Neutral Adaptations
The increasing emphasis on gender neutrality has led to clothing options that transcend traditional gender roles. This includes tartan trousers, vests, and other garments that can be worn by individuals of any gender, offering a modern alternative to the kilt. These gender-neutral options permit individuals to express their connection to Scottish culture without adhering to gendered clothing norms. For example, tartan vests paired with neutral shirts and trousers create a sense of cultural appreciation, rather than replicating gender-specific garments.
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Customization and Personalization
Modern technology and design approaches allow for the customization of tartan garments. This includes selecting specific tartan patterns, altering garment styles, and incorporating personal embellishments. This customization empowers individuals to express their unique identity while remaining within the framework of Scottish heritage. For example, one might design a bespoke tartan dress with a modern silhouette, showcasing personal style alongside cultural background. Personalization ensures that the attire resonates with individual preferences while respecting cultural traditions.
These modern adaptations offer diverse and evolving options for women seeking appropriate attire in contexts where kilts are traditionally worn by men. The incorporation of tartan into contemporary styles, reinterpretation of historical garments, embrace of gender-neutral designs, and emphasis on customization provide opportunities to express cultural identity while navigating contemporary fashion trends and social norms.
8. Personal expression
The query regarding appropriate attire for women when men wear kilts inherently intersects with the concept of personal expression. This intersection acknowledges that clothing choices extend beyond mere functionality or adherence to tradition; they serve as a medium through which individuals communicate identity, values, and affiliations.
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Stylistic Interpretation of Heritage
Personal expression manifests in the manner individuals interpret and adapt traditional garments. While tartan skirts or dresses represent direct connections to Scottish heritage, the specific style, cut, and embellishments reflect individual preferences. For example, a woman might choose a modern, asymmetrical tartan skirt to convey a contemporary sensibility while still honoring her cultural background. The selection of accessories, such as brooches or belts, further personalizes the ensemble, differentiating it from a purely prescriptive adherence to tradition.
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Subversion of Gendered Expectations
Clothing choices can challenge conventional gendered expectations. Opting for tartan trousers, a kilt, or a non-traditional silhouette demonstrates a deliberate departure from prescribed norms. Such choices express individuality and a willingness to subvert traditional associations. A woman might choose to wear a kilt with a tailored jacket, reinterpreting the traditional male garment to express personal style and challenge gender stereotypes.
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Blending Cultural and Contemporary Elements
Personal expression occurs when individuals integrate cultural attire with contemporary fashion trends. Combining a tartan shawl with a modern dress or pairing tartan trousers with a non-traditional top creates a unique ensemble that merges heritage with current style. This blending allows individuals to showcase their cultural connection while maintaining a personal aesthetic. This can be seen in examples of women wearing tartan scarves with leather jackets or combining traditional brogues with modern dresses, creating a fusion of heritage and contemporary fashion.
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Representation Beyond Garments
Personal expression extends beyond specific garments to encompass accessories, hairstyles, and makeup. Individuals can express their identity through the subtle incorporation of Scottish motifs, such as clan symbols or thistle designs, in jewelry, hair accessories, or even makeup. These details, while seemingly minor, contribute to a cohesive expression of cultural identity and personal style. Examples include wearing a clan crest pendant or incorporating thistle embroidery into a handbag, demonstrating a nuanced approach to personal expression within a cultural context.
These facets highlight the diverse ways in which personal expression influences attire choices for women in contexts where men wear kilts. The overarching theme demonstrates that clothing is not merely a matter of tradition but also a powerful tool for communication and self-definition. By understanding the intersection of heritage, personal style, and evolving social norms, women can confidently navigate sartorial choices and express their unique identities in culturally meaningful ways.
9. Formal alternatives
The question of suitable attire for women when men wear kilts necessitates exploring formal alternatives to the kilt itself. Men’s formal wear often centers on the kilt, sporran, and associated accoutrements, establishing a sartorial benchmark. Women attending the same formal event require equivalent options that respect cultural tradition while offering appropriate levels of elegance and formality. The need for such alternatives stems directly from the gendered nature of the kilt’s primary association; without these options, women would be limited in their ability to participate fully in formal celebrations of Scottish heritage. Examples include formal tartan dresses, sophisticated tartan skirt suits, or elegant gowns paired with tartan sashes.
The importance of formal alternatives lies in their capacity to demonstrate cultural respect and sensitivity. A formal dress incorporating tartan, for instance, signals an understanding of the event’s cultural significance while adhering to expected dress codes. Furthermore, considering these alternatives expands the range of stylistic expression available to women. It allows for a blending of traditional Scottish motifs with contemporary formal wear designs. Practical applications include providing guidelines for attire at Scottish weddings or formal clan gatherings, ensuring that female guests have a clear understanding of appropriate options that balance tradition and personal style. This provides inclusivity and demonstrates respect.
In conclusion, formal alternatives are a critical component in the discussion of appropriate attire for women when men wear kilts. The availability of these options ensures inclusivity, respects cultural traditions, and expands opportunities for personal expression. The challenge resides in maintaining a balance between honoring heritage and accommodating contemporary fashion sensibilities. Guidance and examples of appropriate formal alternatives contribute to a deeper understanding of cultural nuances and enable women to confidently participate in formal celebrations of Scottish heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding appropriate attire for women in contexts where kilts are traditionally worn by men. The aim is to provide clarity and guidance on navigating culturally sensitive clothing choices.
Question 1: Are women permitted to wear kilts?
While kilts are historically associated with men, there are no explicit prohibitions against women wearing them. However, cultural sensitivity dictates that kilts worn by women should be styled respectfully and appropriately, avoiding any appearance of mockery or cultural appropriation.
Question 2: What are some suitable alternatives to kilts for women?
Appropriate alternatives include tartan skirts, dresses, trousers, and shawls. The key is incorporating tartan patterns that represent clan affiliation or Scottish heritage in a respectful and meaningful way.
Question 3: How can women express clan affiliation in their attire?
Clan affiliation can be expressed through the selection of tartan patterns corresponding to the individual’s clan. This applies to various garments, including skirts, dresses, shawls, and accessories like brooches or sashes.
Question 4: Is it appropriate for women to wear formal gowns to events where men wear kilts?
Yes, formal gowns are entirely appropriate. A gown can be complemented with a tartan sash or shawl to incorporate a touch of Scottish heritage while maintaining the formality of the occasion.
Question 5: How can modern fashion trends be integrated with traditional Scottish attire for women?
Modern fashion trends can be integrated by incorporating tartan accents into contemporary designs, such as a tartan-trimmed jacket or a dress with tartan detailing. The goal is to blend heritage with personal style in a respectful manner.
Question 6: What is the best way to ensure that attire choices are culturally sensitive?
Cultural sensitivity can be ensured by researching clan affiliations, understanding the historical context of garments, and avoiding any attire that could be perceived as mocking or disrespectful. Consulting with individuals knowledgeable about Scottish culture is also advisable.
These FAQs provide a foundational understanding of appropriate attire for women in contexts where men wear kilts. The core principle is to demonstrate respect for Scottish heritage while allowing for individual expression and stylistic preferences.
The following section offers practical tips for selecting suitable attire based on specific events and settings.
Tips for Selecting Women’s Attire When Men Wear Kilts
The following tips provide guidance on choosing appropriate and respectful attire for women attending events where men traditionally wear kilts.
Tip 1: Research Clan Tartans. Before selecting a tartan garment, determine clan affiliation and choose the corresponding tartan pattern. Wearing another clan’s tartan is considered disrespectful.
Tip 2: Consider the Formality of the Event. Formal events necessitate more traditional attire, such as a full-length tartan dress or a gown with a tartan sash. Casual gatherings allow for greater stylistic freedom, such as tartan skirts or trousers.
Tip 3: Prioritize Respectful Styling. Avoid styling tartan garments in a manner that could be perceived as mocking or appropriative. Ensure that hemlines are appropriate and that accessories complement, rather than detract from, the cultural significance of the tartan.
Tip 4: Embrace Modern Adaptations Thoughtfully. While modern tartan designs offer stylish alternatives, choose pieces that maintain the integrity of the tartan pattern and avoid overly trendy or disrespectful interpretations.
Tip 5: Accessorize with Intention. Select accessories that complement the chosen garment and reflect an understanding of Scottish heritage. Clan badges, crests, or traditional jewelry can enhance the cultural significance of the ensemble.
Tip 6: Understand the Historical Context. Familiarize yourself with the historical significance of different garments and tartan patterns. This knowledge will inform attire choices and demonstrate respect for Scottish culture.
These tips emphasize the importance of informed decision-making and respectful engagement with Scottish traditions. By adhering to these guidelines, women can confidently select attire that is both appropriate and expressive of their appreciation for Scottish heritage.
The subsequent section offers a summary of the key points discussed in this exploration of women’s attire in the context of kilts.
Men Wear Kilts What Do Women Wear
This exploration has addressed the multifaceted inquiry of “men wear kilts what do women wear,” examining the historical context, cultural nuances, and contemporary interpretations of appropriate female attire. Key considerations include the significance of clan representation through tartan patterns, the adaptability of garments like skirts, dresses, and shawls, and the importance of respecting cultural traditions while allowing for personal expression. Formal alternatives offer elegant solutions for celebratory occasions, and modern adaptations provide avenues for blending heritage with current fashion trends.
The dialogue surrounding sartorial traditions remains ongoing, reflecting evolving social norms and the enduring power of clothing as a means of cultural expression. Continued engagement with the historical context and thoughtful consideration of contemporary adaptations will ensure that attire choices honor heritage while embracing individual identity and fostering inclusivity in celebrations of Scottish culture.
