When people think of kilts and royalty, Scotland’s Highland tradition and the British royal family often come to mind together. One question comes up often: does Prince William wear a kilt?
The short answer: yes. Prince William has been seen wearing kilts on ceremonial occasions and while in Scotland specifically.
The royal family and the kilt
King Charles III is famously fond of kilts, frequently seen in tartans like Balmoral and Hunting Stewart. Prince William follows that same tradition, wearing kilts at official engagements in Scotland, especially at Balmoral and during Scottish ceremonies. Younger royals, including Prince George, have appeared in Highland dress too, which tends to read as a sign of continuity in the family’s Scottish ties.
For your own piece of that heritage, explore our tartan kilts collection.
When Prince William actually wears a kilt
Mainly at ceremonial events in Scotland — weddings, investitures, or state visits — and at Balmoral Castle gatherings, where the royal family traditionally wears Scottish dress. As Duke of Rothesay in Scotland, William’s use of Highland dress also connects to that specific title and the cultural respect tied to it.
Which tartans do royals actually wear?
The Balmoral tartan is reserved exclusively for the royal family. Hunting Stewart and Royal Stewart show up commonly at more formal occasions. And royals sometimes choose district tartans specifically to honor particular Scottish communities they’re visiting or connected to.
Why this still matters
Prince William wearing a kilt reflects respect for Scotland’s traditions and the monarchy’s long historical ties to the Highlands. For many in the Scottish and Celtic diaspora, seeing a royal in Highland dress reinforces the kilt’s ongoing status as both cultural and ceremonial attire, not just a historical relic.
Bottom line
So, does Prince William wear a kilt? Yes — as part of official duties, family gatherings at Balmoral, and Scottish ceremonies. Like his father before him, he continues the tradition by wearing Highland dress in the right contexts.
If you want your own version of that same tradition, our Prince Charlie outfits and tartan kilts collections cover the formal side of Highland dress this piece is built around.