Comparison: Utilikilts - Alpha Kilts - Union Kilts - Other Modern/Neo Style Kilts

[The Wizard of BC]

My only suggestion to actually see, feel and try on some of the Kilts you mention would be to attend a Highland Games, RenFest, or other similar event. With the Utilikilt Co. going wholesale there are a glut of companies that have started up carrying not only UK's but AlphaKilts, Bear Kilts, AmeriKilts and usually an assortment of Middle-Eastern Acrylic Tartan Kilts such as those sold by Frugal Corner and Stillwater.

I'm sure some others here will know at least one of those companies operating in your area and would be willing to post some information.
Around here the Vancouver based company is called "The Kilted Connection". It's a couple of guys that operate out of and live in a van. They travel to every show they can squeeze into the season. They are active in Canada and the North-Western states.

However, if you want a Kilt that can be dressed up may I suggest you look at USA Kilts for a custom made Kilt first. One of Rocky's Kilts can be worn casually or dressed up with a Jacket and tie very easily.
Or Perhaps a Stillwater Kilt for an Acrylic off-the-rack Kilt.

If you are looking specifically for a solid colored Kilt then seeing one in person will really help you to decide. The main difference between a Contemporary Kilt and a MUG is the degree it can be dressed up.

Caution----rant in progress.

There is a secret that seems to be missed by many who are looking for a first Kilt or for a different style of Kilt. The secret is, that a good Kilt can be worn formally, informally, or casualy. A good custom-made Kilt can go equaly well with a Prince Charlie to a white-tie event one day and with a sweater and boots the next.
You can't do that with a MUG. The MUG style of garment is designed to be the equivelant of blue jeans. It can be worn wherever jeans would be worn. And worn with the same accessories. But as soon as you try to wear it even a little dressy it just doesn't work as well. Yes, some people wear a sport coat with jeans, and it can look OK. But jeans with a suit coat, dress shirt, and tie, when you have the need for those, just doesn't seem to be successfully pulled off very often.

So my advice would be to look at the best Kilt you can afford. It will last far longer, look better with a wider range of outfits, and be accepted by more people than most MUG's.

MUG's have their place. I own MUG's and wear them when working around the house, and love them for what they are, but prefer a true Contemporary Kilt when out in public.

[Cerebite]

Listen to the Wizard, he knows of which he speaks. I only own a tank right now but I will be getting a contemporary kilt soon and because of many of the reasons that he stateded it will probably be from him.

The Wizard is to modest. In his list of options for custom contemporary kilts he failed to mention Freedom Kilts, his company among the options.

I will now get off of the Wizards soapbox as he appears to be returning from his coffee break.

[Carolina Kiltman]

Caution----rant in progress.

There is a secret that seems to be missed by many who are looking for a first Kilt or for a different style of Kilt. The secret is, that a good Kilt can be worn formally, informally, or casualy. A good custom-made Kilt can go equaly well with a Prince Charlie to a white-tie event one day and with a sweater and boots the next.
You can't do that with a MUG. The MUG style of garment is designed to be the equivelant of blue jeans. It can be worn wherever jeans would be worn. And worn with the same accessories. But as soon as you try to wear it even a little dressy it just doesn't work as well. Yes, some people wear a sport coat with jeans, and it can look OK. But jeans with a suit coat, dress shirt, and tie, when you have the need for those, just doesn't seem to be successfully pulled off very often.

I totally agree, and since I have to go the custom route, I bought a "tank" (we ate beans for two months afterward to get it paid for). I have worn it with a "T" shirt, and to the formal Burns Night. It is never too dressy nor not dressy enough.