Shorten the Kilt (Temporary Hem)

How to Shorten Kilt: Temporary Hem Guide

We always recommend hemming your kilt when shortening because they are often a real family heirloom and the next owner might be a little taller.

We’ll make sure the hem is almost invisible so it will be exactly the right height.

For those of you who want a permanent fit then we can do this too, we’ll cut and finish and kilt to your desired size but remember, kilts are like your hair, we can cut it off but we can’t stick it back on!

Understanding Kilt Length

Kilt length is a crucial aspect of wearing a kilt, as it can greatly affect the overall appearance and comfort of the garment. Understanding kilt length is essential to ensure a perfect fit and to make informed decisions when it comes to kilt alterations. Whether you’re preparing for a formal event or a casual outing, getting the length just right can make all the difference. A well-fitted kilt not only looks sharp but also feels comfortable, allowing you to move with ease and confidence.

Shorten Kilt to Desired Length

We offer a variety of kilt alterations but one of most popular services is kilt shortening. When shortening a kilt, it's crucial to consider the lower edge, as it often features the selvedge of the woven material, which should be preserved. Similar to trousers, kilts can be easily shortened using a hem around the waist.

A hem is a simple fold in the fabric creating a seam which is fastened with stitching. This is a very quick way of adjusting the wear of the kilt which you want to reach to just above your knees when worn properly.

Kilts are that kind of garment that need to be fitted just right so we always ask for the precise measure from your waist to your knees so we can make our adjustments accurately for your size.

How does a temporary hem work?

A temporary hem is made along the top edge of the kilt so it does not affect the pleats or the apron of the kilt. The stitching for the hem will likely not be visible behind the kilt’s belt when worn, and we ensure each stitch matches the original pattern for a seamless look.

However, we will always sew with a matching thread colour so the stitching is less visible.

You’ll want to make sure your buckles are in good order and if you also need new buckles we can do that too - see buckle replacement. Any other kilt accessories will be removed for the alterations and then put back on when we’re finished.

How do I know what length to adjust to?

Pop your kilt on as it is now and let it sit straight on your waist - not higher one side than the other. Make sure the kilt is comfortable on the waist and is where you would normally want to wear it.

Unlike a skirt, a kilt requires precise measurements to ensure it sits correctly and maintains its traditional appearance.

Take a rollup tape measure and with some patience, allow it fall from the waist down your leg. We need to know how far it is from the top of the waist of your kilt to just above your knees.

Sometimes the measurement can vary from leg to leg. You may find, if this is the case, that you walk around in circles a lot? If so, please give us both measurements. If you wish, you may assert a preference for which measure to use.

How much does kilt shortening cost?

We charge £65 including VAT for kilt alterations making your kilt shorter with a temporary hem. The cost covers the meticulous work involved, including ensuring all stitches are secure and match the original pattern. If you are shipping the kilt to us from afar, we ask you to pay when you place the order but if you are bringing the kilt into us, you can pay when you get here.

Our alterations are carried out a fixed price on a standard 28 day turnaround. If you need your alterations faster, we can offer you express 14 day for an additional £39 or super express 7 day for an additional £59.

Tack and Press: Getting the Kilt Ready to Wear

Once your kilt has been shortened, it may benefit from a tack and press to ensure it looks its best when worn. Proper hemming techniques are essential to ensure the kilt maintains its shape and appearance after alterations.

Tacking involves temporarily stitching or pinning the pleats in place to hold their shape while the kilt is pressed. This keeps the fabric aligned properly, especially after alterations.

We then press the kilt carefully with steam and heat, ensuring that all the pleats lie sharp and straight, and that the seams are smooth and tidy.

This process gives your kilt a crisp, clean finish and helps it hang perfectly when worn. It’s especially useful if the fabric has been handled during shortening or if the pleats have softened over time.

Why Deep Clean Before Alterations?

Before we alter your kilt, it’s a good idea to have it deep cleaned. Cleaning the fabric beforehand removes any dirt, oils, or odours that can build up over time—especially if the kilt is worn regularly or for uniform use.

Cleaning the kilt beforehand also helps preserve the lower edge, which is often the selvedge of the fabric and crucial for the garment's integrity.

A freshly cleaned kilt allows us to make more accurate adjustments, as the fabric relaxes and behaves as it should. If the kilt is cleaned after shortening, it can slightly change shape or length, which might affect the fit and mean extra costs to readjust it.

By deep cleaning first, you’ll avoid surprises and get the best result from your alterations.