I'm looking to get my first kilt, but I'm having a hard time deciding. I like the USAkilts and Stillwater, but there aren't many front/back pictures of guys like me who have a gut. The Stillwater drop length is kind of long for someone of my height 5'8". My navel/waist measurements are 44/40.

I'm thinking a semi-traditional with a larger belt might be better than the philabeg with the smaller. It's a lot of money to lay out, and I want to make an informed decision.

Am I better off getting a kilt that starts from the waist rather than the navel?

Advice anyone?