Really newbie question

[clsnatreasurer]

I am now, after 10 years of membership in my Clan's society, to buy my kilt. I have all other components, including a very nice formal jacket, sporran, etc. I realize there are many places I can go (online or driving a wee bit) but I guess my first and most confusing question is "what type of kilt" do I want? This is a major expense for me so I want the best overall purchase. One that will be easily worn going to the Games and also one that can be worn at a Robbie Burns celebration. Also, the lengths, weights, etc are confusing for me. I live in SE Virginia (near North Carolina border and the Atlantic Ocean). Warm in the summer, reasonably chilly (not like Canada or anything!!) in winter.

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Frank Brown

[Father Bill]

Hi Frank!

I'm in SW Ontario - not as far north as you might think when you think Canada. Bitter cold winters, stinking hot summers.

Wool! Cool in summer, warm in winter, hangs beautifully and sways the way a kilt should. If you want to economize, go with lesser yardage, not with lighter weight or other materials. A 4 yard box pleat (I have one and LOVE it!) is historically correct (up to about 1850ish) or a 5 yard so-called "casual" Otherwise, stick with the 16 oz wool. I can guarantee you won't be disappointed in that.

I had a PV for a relatively short time and sold it because it just didn't fit the bill for me, and you're talking about some relatively formal occasions, so I'd stick with the 16 oz wool for sure.

Cheers, and enjoy!

... and by the way,

Welcome to the "Great Rabble!"

Bill

[ASinclair]

Hello Frank!

[Holcombe Thomas]

Welcome to the Great Rabble from up in Falls Church!

[rtown]

Hello and Welcome

[LongShanks]

I live in Nova Scotia it's cold and hot. Go for the tank be the best dressed man I've had one cheep kilt and it will never happen again heavy weight all the way.

[MacKenzie]

Welcome Frank.

Best advice I can give you is to spend a week or three reading here on this forum. Open a document or some such where you can save links to threads & posts that you deem "good info" so you can refer back to them later.

Once you a near decision turn off the computer and CALL SOME KILT MAKERS. They are a most helpful lot.

[MacLowlife]

It seems to me you have to make The Big decision- will you go with a factory made kilt or one made for you. After that, things will be fairly simple. I do believe, the more you wear your kilt, the more your notions of the ideal may change. In that case, why not consider a good-to-decent ready made one first.

[WillowEstate]

Hi Frank and a warm welcome from sunny Queensland!

For the purposes of what you said, for your "signature" kilt, I'd go with the general, consensus, wool, heavy - 16 ounce, 8 yards, made to measure. It will last a lifetime and you won't be disappointed.

If you also want to wear a kilt in slightly "messier" situations, get a cheaper budget kilt to wear alongside your woollen one and you'll be set.

[Bob C]

My sister lives very near you. I would not want wool anywhere near me during one of your 100+ degree summers. I've tolerated it at 80 degree games here in NY, but would not say it was comfortable. I know I'm not helping much. Good luck with your choice!