Several Questions for a 1st time Kilt Buyer

[irishcoloradoan]

Hello folks-

I've done some lurking for a bit but can't seem to find the answer to a few questions I have.

First off, I'm the owner of a second-hand kilt (not my tartan). I LOVE the kilt and wear it whenever possible.

Second off, the real meat: I'm getting married next year and would like to purchase my tartan (clarke) for something that won't break the bank. I'm also in the market for a good pair of hose, a nice sporran, etc.

I'm looking at the Frugal Corner because of their pricing. I'm a bit wary though - I've tried to contact them a couple of times (by email & phone) and never received an answer.

So for my questions:
1. Is FC a good place to order from for the price? Is the kilt something I'll be able to proudly wear at my wedding?

2. How are their sporrans? I saw a picture of one and it looked fairly small (as in you couldn't put much inside). I wouldn't mind paying a little more for the sporran if I absolutely need to.

[Jock Scot]

I have no idea about the kilt vendors that you mention as I am on the wrong side of the Atlantic, so I cannot advise you on that front.What I will say is this; research, question, research again and question again and again.Then buy the very best you can afford, you will not regret it in the long run.

[gilmore]

I agree with Jock. While a starter kilt might be fun for one's initial foray into kilting, it's good to have one that is well made, will last, and that you will feel good about wearing as your familiarity with kilts increases.

[auld argonian]

I'd search the forum for some of the wedding pictures that are posted here...I might suggest that you and your intended both sit in front of the computer and look through them. That'll give you both some idea of what looks good and what you like.

I'm going to agree with the previous respondents...since it's your wedding and your family tartan, think about investing in something nice. You can always find a rental on an Argyle or Prince Charlie jacket for the event but it's unlikely that a rental place will have Clarke on hand...thus, the kilt becomes the main event.

Lots of nice kiltmakers here in the USA and several in Canada that could get you going in either Poly Viscose or the worsted wool. Again, browse the forum or get together with some of the forum members who might be having a kilt night somewhere near you...you'll get plenty of information, advice and opinions.

Best

AA

[ardchoille]

Although there are many outstanding vendors out there, I felt the need to mention this.

The Scotland Yard has a time pay plan in which you can order any of their items, pay $75.00 down and then pay $50.00 or more per month until the balance is paid in full. This isn't a lay-away plan in that they will ship the items to you when the items are ready to ship regardless of your time pay plan balance.

My first time pay plan order with them was two 8-yard, hand-sewn, 13-ounce, kilts and a few other items, and this company has taken very good care of me over the years. I've had a running time pay plan balance with them for years and it's an easy way to set yourself up with a full outfit with very little money down.

Call them and see what they can do for you.

[Nighthawk]

No one has yet mentioned USA Kilts? USA Kilts sells the Clarke tartan on poly viscous. I have one- it's my nice dressy kilt- and it's fantastic. Frugal Corner has the tartan as well, but it looks gaudy in comparisson to the USAK variety, which is much higher in quality.3

And congratulations!!

[Big Mikey]

FC has met with mixed success with other members. Some love the products and others have had problems with communication. As Jock has said, do more research. If you particularily want Clark, check USA Kilts. They have it available in a variety of fabrics. As to sporrans, do a search on the forum for sporrans. You should come up with a WIDE selection. Here's a couple to get you started.

http://www.wyvernleatherworks.com/

http://www.thorfinnsporrans.com/

[Birddog]

First, always nice to see another Coloradoan here; Nighthawk above is one as well...
For your wedding, my thinking would be that I would want the very best that I can afford; that is what I did with my western frock coat and hat. I looked at John Higgins site, but he didn't have Clarke listed. He might be able to get it. John is who I have gone through to get my formal kilt, aka "tank", and with luck, I might see it next week! Best price for a proper worsted wool custom fitting kilt that I have found; not entirely hand sewn, so it keeps the cost down slightly. Might check and see if he can help you out.
http://www.jhiggins.net/
Good luck...
Kevin

[Riverkilt]

A hand sewn wool kilt in your tartan is probably less expensive than your bride's gown.

If you gotta scrimp I'm witht he folks who suggest USA Kilts semi-traditional model.

Be sure and order well in advance just to be safe...nothing sadder than kilts that don't arrive in time.

Add www.kathyskilts.com to your list of prospects if you decide to do a quality kilt. down the road from you in Albuquerque.

Ron

[irishcoloradoan]

Wow, great responses! Thanks to everyone who wrote and sent links! This is a great site and I really hope to meet you Colorado people out at the pub (or the Ren Fair) soon!