I too have a tendency toward sarcasm which isn't always the best thing with strangers, but not so much while kilted. I'm keenly aware that I'm noticed in the kilt and that I represent the kilted community so I'm usually more polite while kilted. It has made me more civil.

When the subject of underwear comes up from women I almost invariably turn it right around on them. "Why what are you wearing"?
From men I ask why they're so interested. It puts them on the defensive and I've got plenty of room to manoeuvre from there with, "Where did you hear that"? and "Ah yes, the old wives tales". I never answer.

The skirt thing ... I accept it. A kilt is a skirt. I don't care. Someone called it a dress? Whatever. I'm confident enough to wear it, I'm comfortable enough in my own skin. I don't need anyone else's validation. I appreciate it if it comes and say "thank-you", but I'm not about to get my panties in a bunch over it if it's the opposite.