A Growing Trend in Highland Wear (And Yes, We’re Here for It)
Traditionally, when you think of Highland dress, your mind might picture a dashing gent in a kilt, a sporran swinging gallantly, and a pair of beautifully tied ghillie brogues. But lately, that picture is evolving—and looking even better in heels (or rather, kilt shoes)!
Ladies, it’s time to reclaim the brogue. The ghillie brogue, to be precise.
Yes, these iconic kilt shoes have long been considered part of a male-dominated wardrobe, but times are changing faster than you can say “Slàinte mhath!” More and more women are stepping (stylishly) into traditional Highland dress—and doing it in full leather, lace-wrapped confidence.
Let’s talk about this growing trend, why it’s long overdue, and why Ghillie brogues for women are not only appropriate but downright brilliant.
1. Wait, Can Women Wear Ghillie Brogues?
Short answer: Absolutely.
Long answer: Aye, and why haven’t we been doing this for longer?
Just because Ghillie brogues originated as part of traditional men’s Highland wear doesn’t mean they’re off-limits to women. In fact, women have been wearing variations of brogues for centuries — from Victorian walking shoes to modern runway takes.
The ghillie brogue, with its long laces and distinctive open lacing, has crossed the gender border with as much grace as a Highland dancer in full swing.
Whether paired with a kilted skirt, trews, or full-length tartan attire, women’s ghillie brogues look just as sharp, authentic, and fabulous.
2. Why Women Love Ghillie Brogues (And Why You Will Too)
Here’s why Ghillie brogues are becoming the go-to kilt shoe for women in Highland wear:
✔️ They’re Comfortable (Seriously)
Made from full-grain leather (at least the good ones — see below), Ghillie brogues mold to your feet over time. Unlike sky-high heels that threaten your ankles at every ceilidh, these shoes are designed for movement and all-day wear.
✔️ They’re Stylish and Versatile
With their long laces and detailed leather-work, Ghillie brogues bring instant sophistication. Whether you’re dressing up for a wedding or heading to a Highland festival, these kilt shoes add timeless charm to your outfit — without looking like you’re borrowing from Grandpa Hamish’s wardrobe.
✔️ They Honor Tradition Without Compromising Personality
Wearing Ghillie brogues as a woman isn’t about imitation — it’s about evolution. You’re embracing history while blazing your own trail across the moors (or the dance floor).
3. How Women Are Styling Ghillie Brogues Today
Gone are the days when Ghillie brogues came in one bulky, unisex style. Today, brands (like ours!) are creating women’s ghillie brogues that combine traditional design with modern comfort and feminine detailing.
Here are some trending styles:
Ghillie Brogues with a Slight Heel: For those who like a bit of lift without sacrificing stability.
Slim-Fit Brogues: Designed with narrower lasts for a more tailored fit.
Colored Laces or Tartan Accents: A cheeky nod to heritage with a splash of personal flair.
Vegan Options? Not here, sorry. We only use full leather. No plastic impostors allowed. (This is Highland wear, not Halloween.)
4. Where to Wear Ghillie Brogues (Yes, You’ll Want to Wear Them Everywhere)
Women are now wearing Ghillie brogues at:
Weddings – as brides, bridesmaids, or guests rocking tartan skirts or kilts
Burns Suppers – reciting poetry while stomping in style
Ceilidhs – where practical footwear is a survival requirement
Graduations – looking polished and proud
Everyday Outfits – because who says tartan can’t go to Tesco?
Pro tip: Pair them with wool socks, tights, or bare legs — depending on the weather and how brave you’re feeling. And don’t forget to learn the proper lace tie — nothing ruins a dramatic entrance like tripping on your own shoe laces.
5. Why Full-Leather Ghillie Brogues Matter (Especially for Women)
Let’s have a quick word about materials. Some brands (naming no names… yet) try to pass off faux leather and shiny plastic as traditional brogues.
We say: nae chance.
At Thistle Shoes, all our Ghillie brogues — including those tailored for women — are made from 100% full-grain leather. That means:
Better durability
More comfort
Breathable wear
Shoes that age beautifully (just like fine whisky)
No plastic. No vinyl. No shortcuts. Just proper kilt shoes worthy of the tartan you’re wearing.
6. The Final Step: Tie Them Like You Mean It
Wearing Ghillie brogues is half the battle. Tying them correctly is the other half. You want the iconic ankle-wrap lacing — not a knotted mess that comes undone by the third verse of “Loch Lomond.”
Here’s a quick version:
Cross the laces over the front of the ankle.
Wrap them around the back.
Bring them forward and tie in a bow just above the ankle bone.
Strut like you own the Highlands.
(We’ll post a full “how to tie your ghillie brogues without crying” tutorial soon.)
Conclusion: Ghillie Brogues Aren’t Just for the Lads Anymore
Ladies, the secret’s out: Ghillie brogues are for everyone. Whether you’re going full traditional or adding a Highland twist to modern style, these iconic kilt shoes are your perfect companion.
They’re comfy, classy, rooted in history, and — dare we say it — kinda badass. So go on. Lace them up. Dance the ceilidh. Recite Burns. Walk through the heather like you own it.
Because the Highlands aren’t just for men. And neither are their shoes.
👞 Shop Women’s Ghillie Brogues Now
Our collection of handcrafted, full-leather Ghillie brogues for women is made with tradition, comfort, and style in every stitch. Whether you’re heading to a wedding or just love a good kilt shoe, we’ve got you covered.
(No plastic. No frills. Just fierce footwear.)
