Going Regimental?

[Nathan]

Nathan, I have no issues with you "going commando" although I am not sure that it was conceived and perpetuated by Scots. The gentleman you quote has his own views which I respect but I would not particularly ascribe them to Scots in general. Most of whom never wear a kilt of course. That it should be a matter of contention, however, does concern me somewhat as I do have views on the matter. At dances and ceilidhs I am not sure that the exposure of ones genitals while dancing to the assembled company is particularly welcome. Similarly I have evidence that the presence of bodily secretions acts as an attractant to vermin - namely clothes moths - and the wearing of underwear helps to minimise this. If you wish to persist in your predilection, however, I would strongly suggest dry cleaning after each outing together with an effective moth-repellant in your wardrobe to minimise risk. As to the offence caused to other members of your company, well, that is something for you to handle in whatever way you consider appropriate. As regards young children that has to be something that your own conscience must deal with although the law nowadays has something to say in such matters.

Obviously, if you're engaged in an activity that exposure would be a reasonable risk (heavy events at Highland Games, Highland dancing), you would take the appropriate measures to protect your modesty. I have a kilt that is over 100 years old and I've had it for 20 years. It's moth free and clean. I air it out before hanging it back up on a cedar hangar in a zippered suit bag, and periodically I have it dry cleaned, although that's mostly because the box pleats sometimes need a refresh so a cleaning, basting and pressing happens all at once. I don't dry clean it too often because it's bad for the wool. My kilt doesn't stink and there have been no moth attacks etc.

You've only addressed one example of one of the points I made. A Scottish kilt maker said generally Scots wear nothing under their kilt. I'll grant you that he has a military background, but he has as much authority as yourself to speak to the general Scottish custom.

Slanj kilts (Glasgow/Edinburgh) refers to "True Scotsman" and it's a given that people are acquainted with the tradition. You also didn't address my contention that it stems from the Highland military tradition (i.e., Scots).

I think it's fair to say that the tradition (whether you like it or don't) is indeed a Scottish one.

Regarding small Children, I've never seen this be an issue at any kilted event in my life nor have I ever exposed myself while wearing the kilt. A drunken lady or two may have pulled me aside to a secluded corner and attempted to check with a curious hand, but that's a story for another day... Shrug.


Yours happy, hygienic & Highland,

Nathan