A UNIQUE fashion show at a prestigious social club signalled the launch of the first ever English kilt last week.

In the first show of its kind to be held at The Reform Club, in Pall Mall, models paraded the woven design to a gathered audience of fashion aficionados.

Developed by a the North Finchley based, family run, English Kilt Company, the attire is the first English version of more traditionally Celtic dress to be officially recognised by the Scottish Tartan Authority.

Featuring a bold red cross of St George and the three lions emblem, the white kilt with red stitching is aimed at wedding parties, sports fans and people wanting to celebrate national holidays.

The design was launched on St Georges Day from the same building Philias Fogg was said to have embarked on his journey around the world in 80 days, and designer Stephen Jacobs, who also owns the Highland specialist shop Jakes Clothing Ltd., in High Road, said: “It was meant to be another month or so before we were ready to launch but we wanted to bring it forward for St Georges Day.

“People are very excited and everyone seems really enthused. They seem to really like what they are looking at.

“This is the most traditional of English clubs and we thought as this room lent itself to a history of lovely traditional things it would be perfect for our launch.”

The kilt, which comes with a series of accessories including a belt buckle, hose shard, and kilt pin, is paired with a jacket and shirt to complete the outfit, and a shorter version is also available for women.

Noel Watson, a 27-year-old model for D1, wore the kilt on the night and said: “It is fantastic, it's really free.

“It is really warm and I wasn't expecting that. I thought it would be a bit more drafty. The big belt stops you slouching and it holds you in a more statuesque pose which makes you look more powerful.”

Timothy Akinyemi, 23, who also modelled on the night, said: “I think it is fantastic and definitely something to have in your wardrobe for a formal occasion.

“With the right marketing it is definitely something that will catch on. The Scottish Kilt has gone all around the world and the English kilt could do the same.”