If you've recently acquired a kilt and are pondering the inclusion of Flashes in your ensemble, you're in the perfect spot for guidance! The tradition of Kilt Flashes dates back to the era of the Feileadh Mor (the Great Kilt), a time when men donned socks with their kilts for added warmth. They faced a continual annoyance with socks slipping down and remedied this by securing a yard of tartan ribbon around their socks just below the knee. The ribbon's ends would dangle, creating a distinctive look. Today's Flashes, designed to emulate this original style, maintain a connection to this historical practice, blending functionality with heritage.

Intriguingly, there's an ancient folklore suggesting that Kilt Flashes were once a sartorial indicator of a man's marital status. According to legend, visible Flashes signified singleness and availability, while concealed Flashes indicated that a man was married or in a relationship.

Tartan or Solid Color flashes


Kilt Flashes, essentially two strips of fabric with a small V cut out of the bottom, are attached to elastic bands, also known as garters. They are worn in pairs, one for each leg, proving indispensable in keeping socks firmly in place, even amidst the most vigorous ceilidh dancing. Designed to be worn on the outside of the leg, kilt socks are longer to allow for folding down over the Flashes' elastic, creating a neat cuff of about 3 inches.

The aesthetic flexibility of Kilt Flashes allows for a solid color that complements the kilt's tartan, a matching tartan pattern, or even a deliberately contrasting color or tartan, showcasing allegiance to two clans or making a bold fashion statement. Despite the traditions surrounding Kilt Flashes, personal preference prevails, enabling wearers to choose hues that resonate with their individual style. Ready to enhance your Highland attire? Explore our selection of Solid Color Kilt Flashes or Tartan Kilt Flashes today!