"True Scotsman" is a humorous term used in Scotland for a man wearing a kilt without undergarments.[1] Though the tradition originated in the military, it has entered Scottish lore as a rite, an expression of light-hearted curiosity about the custom, and even as a subversive gesture.[2]
However, in 2010, the Director of the Scottish Tartans Authority, Brian Wilton, described the tradition of not wearing undergarments as "childish and unhygienic".[3] In response, racing driver David Coulthard and some kilt manufacturers spoke in favour of the tradition, while MSP Jamie McGrigor and Wimbledon champion Andy Murray admitted to wearing underpants under their kilts.
- ^ [1] "He was singing on stage in Scotland and inadvertently proving he was a true Scotsman with nothing on underneath his kilt". Neil Simpson, excerpt from Lorraine Kelly: The Biography: The True Story of Lorraine Kelly, TV's Best Loved Presenter, May 31, 2007, Accessed May 12, 2008
- ^ Royle, Trevor (January 14, 2001). "When a blue moon has more to do with the wind-chill factor". The Sunday Herald. Archived from the original on November 5, 2013.(subscription required)
- ^ "A kilt needs underwear". UK: The Telegraph. 2010-11-22. Archived from the original on 2010-11-23. Retrieved 2012-08-21.