A custom hand sewn kilt is no more expensive (and often much less expensive) than any other well made custom article of clothing. Of course it seems expensive when compared to clothing that most people buy on a regular basis. However, when you compare the cost of a kilt to the cost of a hand made to measure suit, you will see they are very similar. To find a kilt in the price range of department store clothing you'll want to look for something off the peg and made from poly-viscose or acrylic.