Ben,

Since you are located in North America, I guess you have to follow the North American guidelines with regard to what you wear and how you wear it. However, I have mentioned this in other kilt forums, was shot down for doing so (and probably will be again) but Charles Thompson, in his book "So You're Going To Wear The Kilt!", admits that he wrote it for the North American market, not for either the traditional or modern Scottish market. Yes, it is considered by some to be the kilt wearer's Bible - but not here in the United Kingdom! It is most definitely 'dated' in that much of what he says would have been read here back in the 1920's/30's.

For example, and I know how much you Americans love your headwear but, nowadays you'll hardly ever see a Glengarry or a Balmoral being worn in Scotland - except as part of a Pipe Band uniform or by a Clan Chief. The Great Kilt is never worn as everyday wear or even at special events. It is now considered to be an historical costume to be worn in Battle re-enactments and by actors in productions of "Brigadoon"!!! I mistakenly bought a Great Kilt some years ago thinking it would be 'cool' for wear to parties or Ceilidhs, but I was wrong. It was not cool, it was exceedingly hot and was totally impractical for wear whilst dancing as everyone else got caught up in it! Only a Jacobite shirt looks 'right' with it and footwear, in particular, is a problem. Since it was never really going to be worn again, my Great Kilt was eventually cut in half and made into two very nice modern kilts!

Now, I am starting to go off at a tangent so I will stop my prattling, but please remember that THAT book is not the word of God. Yes, use it as a rough guide but your best bet, as others have advised, is to look at the websites, and send for the catalogues, of reputable kiltmakers such as Hector Russell, Kinloch Anderson, and many others. Look at the photos and model yourself on what you see there.

BearKilts have it right, and I paraphrase: "Kilts are garments, not historical costumes." Please do not go for the historical look - unless you are participating at a RenFaire!!

Again, welcome to the board ........ enjoy!