My First Tartan

[KiltedSergeant]

You look great in that ensemble, and I think some in this thread have stated their personal preferences (which I believe is what should guide your choices) in a manner that might lead you to think you've made some mistakes in your wearing of tartan and the kilt. I believe that the trend I have witnessed in the twenty years I've been wearing the kilt, is more towards personal preference, rather than hard tradition, though I certainly wouldn't rule out tradition, as after all that's WHY we wear the kilt, and I also will not wear certain items/combinations which I find too nontraditional for me. I think we each have to find our own balance between the two.

In reference to some previous suggestions, I would offer the following opinions:

1. Many wear tartan ties with the kilt, and in most circles it is perfectly acceptable. I think yours looks great. As do solid ties! You decide what you like.

2. The large buckle looks very good and makes the ensemble slightly more formal. I would wear that to an informal party or dinner, perhaps. The simpler buckle, as suggested by Cygnus, would look good hanging out at the pub or outdoor Scottish Games/Festival. As to the large shiny buckles being more for formal wear, I would say that generally the Prince Charlie is better worn without a buckle, as the buckle tends to push up on the waistcoat setting it out of sorts. However, a large buckle looks great with an Argyll, in my opinion, for events that are not formal enough for a PC.

3. Belt loops are entirely up to the discretion of the person wearing the kilt. It is apparently an invention of the 20th century, but I would say that most kilts today have them (all of mine do), and I have never heard anyone disparage one for either having or not having them.

4. I have never heard that kilts should be worn or not worn with light or dark shades of shirts. I would wear whatever goes well with the tartan, and yours goes well, indeed.

5. I don't wear "flat caps" such as yours, but I've seen many photos of Scots out for a hike wearing a flat cap. It always looked good, and comfortable, to me. I say wear it for informal times, if you like. I even throw on a ball cap sometimes when headed for the pub (See photo). I'm sure THAT'S a no-no! Whew, I wonder how many rules I broke here?


6. As I've stated that it should be left to your own personal preference and taste, you should probably ignore everything I've written above. But, it might give you food for thought.

Enjoy all your kilted times, my friend! And, I'm sure you'll have many!