The self consciousness DOES come and go. I wore a kilt to work two or three days per week from January 2003 until I took early retirement from the job in July 2004 and set up my own part-time business. During the first six months or so of being self employed I wore a kilt less often and began to feel self conscious when I did wear one. Gradually I began wearing kilts more frequently again and regained my confidence but I still have my moments of hesitation, specially if its going to be a first time out in a new kilt, or going somewhere I've not been kilted before.