The Dress Act of 1746, which prohibited the wearing of Highland dress, including kilts, for almost forty years, failed to diminish the garment's popularity. Contrarily, the kilt transformed into a profound symbol of Scottish identity and heritage. Through the years, numerous organizations and societies have been instrumental in advocating for the significance and enduring appeal of kilts and tartans. Below are a few such organizations that have significantly contributed to the promotion and preservation of Kilts throughout the centuries.

• Society of Antiquaries of Scotland (1780): Founded in 1780, the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland has been instrumental in promoting Scottish archaeology and history, with a particular emphasis on the preservation of artifacts related to traditional Scottish dress like kilts. By curating collections and conducting research, the Society ensures that the historical significance of the kilt is recognized and celebrated, thereby enhancing public understanding and appreciation of this iconic garment.
• Highland Society of London (1778): The Highland Society of London, established in 1778, was set up to promote Scottish culture within the capital of the United Kingdom. It particularly focused on maintaining the tradition of the kilt and tartan amidst the Scottish diaspora. Through its activities, the society has played a crucial role in upholding the visibility and relevance of Scottish cultural symbols in a cosmopolitan context.
• Edinburgh Society of Antiquaries (1780): Similar in mission to its national counterpart, the Edinburgh Society of Antiquaries, founded in the same year, has also been a key player in promoting Scottish history and archaeology. The society places particular importance on the preservation and study of kilts as significant cultural artifacts, contributing to the broader appreciation of Scottish heritage through exhibitions and scholarly work.
• Royal Scottish Society of Arts (1821): Since its inception in 1821, the Royal Scottish Society of Arts has actively promoted Scottish arts and crafts, including the textile industry that produces kilts. By organizing exhibitions and competitions, the society has contributed to raising the profile of kilts both as elements of fashion and as cultural symbols, supporting the craftsmanship behind kilt-making.
• Gaelic Society of Inverness (1871): The Gaelic Society of Inverness was founded in 1871 to maintain and promote the Gaelic culture and traditions, focusing particularly on tartans and kilts. The society’s work in documenting and preserving Gaelic traditions has ensured that kilts remain a vibrant part of Scotland's cultural expression, especially in the Gaelic-speaking regions.
• Scottish Tartans Society (1963) & Scottish Register of Tartans (2008): Both the Scottish Tartans Society and the Scottish Register of Tartans have been central to the cataloging and promotion of tartan designs and their histories. These institutions serve as repositories of knowledge and authenticity, safeguarding the integrity of tartan patterns and ensuring their association with the kilt remains historically accurate and culturally meaningful.
• Clan Campbell Society (1921): The Clan Campbell Society, established in 1921, focuses on promoting the history and cultural artifacts of the Campbell clan, including its distinctive tartan and kilt. This society not only preserves clan history but also promotes the wearing of clan-specific kilts, strengthening ties among clan members worldwide.
• Celtic League (1961): Formed in 1961, the Celtic League is an organization that advocates for the cultures and languages of the Celtic nations. It emphasizes the kilt as a symbol of Celtic identity across these regions, promoting its use not only in Scotland but also in other Celtic nations, thus fostering a shared cultural heritage.
• Scottish National Dress and Badge Association (1902): The Scottish National Dress and Badge Association, established in 1902, has been pivotal in standardizing kilt-wearing rules and promoting Scottish clan badges. Their efforts ensure that the wearing of kilts is not only a matter of cultural pride but also adheres to specific standards that reflect respect for tradition and history.

Together, these organizations have woven a rich narrative that underscores the kilt’s enduring legacy as more than just attire but as a deep-seated emblem of Scottish culture and identity. Their ongoing endeavors continue to champion the kilt’s significance in Scotland and across the globe.