To Kilt or not to Kilt - That is the question

[Bikehonda600]

First, I would like to thank all those who have made me feel welcome. Thus far, it has been a pleasant and eye-opening experience to find like minded people to converse with here.

Second, for the record, I would like to give a little philosophy of me. I'm open-minded, non judgmental, and believe in "What a person deems appropriate in his or her eyes, then live it that way. I'm a person who does like "going with the crowd", except in times where my morals, values, and beliefs would say different, then I'm true to myself. My conscious is my guide.

Third, I live in NC and while the ignorant people has been using media to really misconstrue things, I would like to know, if there is any a time, where wearing a kilt would make you the center of attention. Here's why. I came to this sight after searching the internet about wearing a kilt on a aircraft. I had planned on wearing my kilt to a destination where I know, it will be accepted. However, after speaking with my buddy, he states, "people will see a man in a dress". While I abhor to that fact, I don't want to be seen as such. I'm a man, and some groups would call me an "otter". If that term is familiar, then that should state my body type. And, I can imagine, if I had to use the facilities in the airport, well, that would definitely make me "stand out", which would create pressure for me, (I think), people would be looking at me.

Fourth, a prime example is wearing a kilt on a motorcycle. While many have responded, and I'm grateful for the thoughts, it has been enlightening with the one post where he carries his kilt and puts it on when he arrives at his destination. I thought of doing that in the EWR airport for then it is meet ground transportation and on I go.

Last, if words of wisdom, philosophy, or thoughts can be posted, my all means, I welcome the input. For I have only worn my kilt at night in the car, and not as clear headed or sober as I should have been. However, this time, I will be clear headed and totally sober. Therefore, liquid courage will not be giving me strength.. ;)

[The Q]

You are going to an airport, you are not going down backalleys where you might get beaten up. You will not be accosted by some redneck. Who cares what people think, that's their problem.
Wear your kilt after reading the advice on this site about the problems with kilt buckles and don't wear a sharp kilt pin or Sgian Dubh.

[Arnot]

This comes up all the time. Liquid courage is not required. If you want to wear a kilt then just do it. Don't act as if you are doing anything outlandish. Just wear it and get on with whatever you are doing. If people see a man in a "dress" they are really quite stupid. Most people will know that you are a man wearing a man's garment so don't worry about it. Just do it.

[McMurdo]

I've lived in Franklin NC, my ex-wife is from Franklin. At the time I was wearing the kilt full time, I've also not had a drink in 23 years. My advice is wear it as well as you can, do not make a mockery of it, wear it as if you meant it. Funny enough if you are nervous others will be able to tell. Keep your head up. If you haven't already you might want to take a look at the 1 kilt 10 looks thread to give you some ideas of how to wear it in different situations.

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...-attire-46888/

[Tarheel]

I trust the words of Winston Churchill, "We have nothing to fear, but fear itself." My wife's (go to the hospital for medication arachnophobia)was over come when she accepted she was the giant in the situation. She still "eeks" while she stomps the intruders.

Having confidence that all is well trumps the nagging suspicion that something is amiss.

[Roadkill]

Tarheel and I both live in Mississippi so I understand where you are coming from. I am the chairperson for a kilted Brain tumor fundraising event and have to go to different places in North Mississippi kilted to promote it. It is interesting the reactions you get. Most ladies love it. Some guys (idiots) will make comments, but its just because they don't get it. Just be confident and wear your kilt with pride. When I'm asked what I have under the kilt, I reply "lipstick". That usually shuts them down.

[Marine2141]

McMurdo's advice is spot on. The first time I wore a kilt in public, I can admit I was a bit nervous. However, I didn't act as if I was nervous. I went about my business as if I wasn't wearing anything different from "regular" clothing. I got a lot of compliments and a lot of stares (which my wife thinks is hilarious) but did nothing to call attention to myself. I will add this - If you feel that wearing a kilt would be inappropriate, err on the side of caution. Wear it with pride and wear it with dignity.

[Taskr]

There is a lot in the OP, but I zeroed in on this one: "Third, I live in NC and while the ignorant people has been using media to really misconstrue things, I would like to know, if there is any a time, where wearing a kilt would make you the center of attention."

Only if you want to. Anyone can become the center of attention in anything they wear, from the mundane to outlandish. It is more about the person than what they wear. And that guy in the bunny suit in the airport gets pretty lame after a while if he doesn't have the personality that would make him the center of attention. If you don't want to be the center of attention then don't be; kilt or pants you can still walk, act, talk, eat, sit, listen, and go to the bathroom. Depends on how you want to go about it. It clothes. Period.

[iKiltIt]

Why worry about it? Be yourself. I don't own a kilt, YET, but will soon. My wife asked me "what if people stare"...what IF people stare? I don't care. People stare at tattoos, but that didn't stop me from getting a few. People used to stare at guys with an earring...that never stopped me from getting one. People stare at and make fun of all types of things. WHO CARES? That is their problem and I couldn't care less what other people think about what I wear. Im nit wearing it for them.Be true to yourself...OWN that kilt when you are wearing it and let others snicker and stare all they want. THEY are the ones who donthave the balls to put on a kilt and walk down the street.

[MinusHD]

Clearly, many of us have had the same hesitant thoughts you are having - sometimes I still do. That's OK. I would encourage you to give it a shot and enjoy it. I wore my kilt on a return flight from Las Vegas to Dallas this past January. I'm sure people have seen stranger things in Vegas, so maybe it felt a little "safer"... but I had a great experience. You can read about it here:

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...eriment-90080/

I'm flying to Kansas City (Fort Leavenworth) next month to visit an old friend for the weekend. I plan to wear a kilt on both flights, and most of the time while I'm there.

Let us know how things work out for you!