Have you ever wondered how a simple piece of clothing can start meaningful conversations, promote inclusion, and bring people together at tech events around the world? That’s exactly what #KiltedMonday does. Discover the origins of this decade-old tradition, its significance, and how you can get involved
KiltedMonday’s roots go deeper than just a playful style choice. It first took shape in 2015, when a group of tech professionals—frustrated by dismissive, gender-based remarks—chose to wear kilts at a conference. Their goal was straightforward but powerful: highlight that in tech (and beyond), respect should come from your contributions, not your gender, background, or any other label.
What began as a fun way to counter bias quickly evolved into a broader statement of inclusivity. Before long, more people embraced the idea, proving that even a light-hearted gesture can spark serious conversation. In a rapidly changing world where collaboration and open-mindedness matter more than ever, KiltedMonday stands as a reminder that what you do—and how you do it—is what truly earns respect.
Little did they know it would ignite a global tradition.
From one conference to many
Originally sparked at Cisco Live US, KiltedMonday has spread far beyond its Cisco roots. You’ll now see kilts proudly worn at VMware Explore (formerly VMworld), Microsoft Ignite, AWS re:Invent, and other tech gatherings. What started as an in-joke among friends has become a unifying celebration across competing platforms and vendor spaces.
The hashtag #KiltedMonday on social media highlights how far this movement has come, with tech pros around the world sharing photos, stories, and personal insights. It’s a playful testament to the fact that, even in a fast-paced industry, a simple gesture of unity and inclusion can bring people together.
Kilts, community, and inclusion
The underlying message behind KiltedMonday is one of openness and unity. It unites people beyond organizational loyalties, technical specialty, and even conference location. When you wear a kilt on Monday at a tech event:
- You’re making a statement of inclusivity. By wearing something that sparks conversation, you’re opening a door for newcomers, underrepresented groups, and industry veterans alike to connect in a positive, relaxed way.
- You’re showing solidarity. Whether you’re championing women in tech or celebrating diversity in general, spotting a kilt says, “We’re all in this together.”
- You’re having fun! KiltedMonday may have a serious backstory, but at its heart, it’s meant to be light, humorous, and welcoming.
While KiltedMonday is a powerful symbol, it’s important to remember that the message of inclusivity shouldn’t be confined to just one day. On Tuesday, we can all take off our kilts and more or less “blend in”—but for many people, it’s not that simple. They can’t simply remove what makes them different to change how others perceive them. KiltedMonday reminds us that inclusive thinking is something to carry throughout the week (and beyond).
How to get involved
It’s easy to participate in KiltedMonday:
- Grab a kilt (or any wraparound garment, since the idea of kilts and skirts spans many cultures worldwide).
- Wear it on Monday at your next tech conference.
- Use the hashtag #KiltedMonday to share your photos, spark conversations, and find fellow kilt-wearers.
Although the name “KiltedMonday” points to the garment rooted in Scotland—often characterized by a tartan pattern—similar wraparound skirts are found worldwide, from the Indian dhoti to the Arab izar. We honour all these traditions, reminding everyone that our true aim is to spark conversations about inclusivity, unity, and celebrating contributions rather than relying on labels or stereotypes. By wearing kilts or a similar garment from your own culture, participants start conversations growing their network and be part of community of tech.
There are no rules, no uniform requirements, and absolutely no restrictions on who can join—just the invitation to wear a kilt and celebrate the spirit of community.
Join the movement
As KiltedMonday marks its 10th anniversary in 2025, the tradition shows no signs of slowing down. From Cisco Live EMEA to local meetups, the kilt brigade continues to grow. It’s proof that, in an industry built on fast innovation and fierce competition, a simple show of solidarity can unite us more than ever.
So next time you’re heading to a tech event on a Monday, consider trading your usual slacks or skirt for a kilt. You’ll likely make new friends, spark great conversations, and become part of a tradition that’s both fun and meaningful. Tech may be serious business—but it’s the supportive, inclusive traditions like KiltedMonday that remind us why we love this industry in the first place.

Use the hashtag #KiltedMonday to share your photos, spark conversations, and find fellow kilt-wearers (perhaps mention on your favorite social media platform)
Further Reading and Inspiration
- Subnetwork.me – Cisco Live Stories
- Spiceworks Community – What I Saw at Cisco Live Las Vegas
- NetworkWorld – A First-Hand Account of Cisco Live 2018 in Orlando
- https://www.youtube.com/embed/kLCQ1ryJebM?start=1121
#kiltedmonday #ciscolive #ciscochampions #womenintech #inclusivity #neverstoplearning #community
