the "skirt" comment revisited

[Minnow]

I already typed this out once today, but the net service decided to croak on me, so I'm trying again.

This past weekend was the first chance I've had to really talk to my girlfriend's father. It's also the first time he's seen me in a kilt. I won't see her parents very often because they live halfway across the country, but I still feel the need to a good impression. I made sure my sportkilt was clean (it is my nicest looking tartan kilt), I put on a belt, sporran and a nice collared shirt.

There were plans made for the three of us (my girlfriend, her father and myself) to go eat dinner at a certain resturant. As soon as we got the resturant and I get out of the car, some guy points at me, giggles and says:

"nice skirt"

Of course this makes me angry, but I really can't lose my temper in front of the potential father-in-law. I have to behave myself as to not make a bad impression. So, I reply with the only clean comment I can think of. I just smile and say:

"wow, I've never heard that one before".

I think I came out of the situation looking like the bigger man because later that evening her father made a comment about the guy, calling him bluntly rude. To which I just shrugged my shoulders and agreed.

-Minnow

[KiltedSkeleton]

I don't see much reason in getting upset over that comment. When I hear it I just smile and say thanks. If I always got upset over other peoples ingnorance then I would never be happy. For your situation, I think you handled it very well. Plus you made a good impression with the potential father-in-Law. Well done.

[Computergeek]

I think considering the circumstances that was one of the best responses that you could have made.

[Splash_4]

Actually, that is a great response. It is not combative and it shows that you are comfortable with what you are wearing. Plus, if it is said right, it can also lead to follow on conversations.

[Panache]

You did well. Remember that poise is the art of raising the eyebrow, not the roof.

Another good response is "Thank you, though most people call them kilts".

Cheers

Jamie

[Minnow]

I'm glad you guys think that was a good response, please use it yourselves if you get the chance.

-Minnow

[MarkReaves]

Yea I would have to say that was well played. I probably would have said something like "Yes it is, thank you" and smiled and walked away. Idiots don't deserve a reply but replying in a positive manner makes yourself look good while they look bad.

Well played and I wish you the best of luck with all your life adventures.

[davedove]

You did well. Remember that poise is the art of raising the eyebrow, not the roof.

Also remember that we have no control over the words or actions of others, but we have complete control over how we react to it.

[Galb]

I have received it as well, but all those times have been innocent mistakes except from one old codger. I simply say "Thanks! And it's a kilt, not a skirt." Those that were paying me a compliment are quick to apologize, and I am quick to tell them that it was "no big deal". Those that are being a smart *** are typically taken back by it as their insult did not produce a rise.

The one old codger I mentioned yelled it as I walked into a Post Office. "Hey, Nice SKIRT!" With specific emphasis on "skirt". I, in a very friendly manner replied "Thanks!" Followed by a not so friendly and stern, "And it's a kilt!" with a wink. He kept walking but mentioned something along the lines of "Yeah, it's a bit late for St. Patrick's Day, isn't it?!" I replied as I kept walking inside, "Good thing I am Scottish then."

[vmac3205]

My husband's favorite retort....
"Do you know it's called a kilt?
Because that's what happened to the last guy who called it a skirt..."