Ghillies (dance shoes)

White ghillies can be dyed a variety of colours to be used for costumes specially choreographed dances such as blue, red, pink and others.

Highland ghillies, for Highland dances, generally need to fit snugly but also need to be able to get on the foot around thick socks or hose; for National dances, they fit snugly as they are worn with thin socks or stockings.

[clarification needed] Unlike Scottish ghillies, the Irish version rarely feature coloured stitching, and they use loops in the leather, as opposed to eyelets, for the laces.

[citation needed] Like ballet shoes, ghillies are generally made from leather, and have similar soles.

Many dancers who start in Highland or Irish dancing will first use ballet shoes, as the cost is considerably lower.