Why all the negative comments on Flat Caps?

[DWFII]

I don't think any kind of name calling is appropriate. Once it begins there really is no end to it.

The fact that a term such as "kilt hippy"-- to describe those who, as a matter of principle, reject convention...with their mantra of "do your own thing, man" (and all the associated cognitive dissonance and hormone driven, adolescent defiance of authority that goes with it)...the fact that such terminology has not arisen is as much due to the the restraint and innate courtesy of those being maligned with the label "kilt police," as any other factor.

But at a certain point, it begs the question whether the implied disdain and disapproval that is inherent in 'kilt police" is the whole point or whether it is just another example of intolerance masquerading as liberality.

Either way it is not in accordance with the spirit and conventions of this forum...as I understand them. And it is certainly an example of words being at odds with actions.

Having said all that, I count at least four posts in the "Vintage Photo" of flat caps being worn with kilts. These are historic...the most recent being 1927...and as such are not automatically the proof of a tradition. Mostly these are "country" settings...such as hunting and fishing parties. And they are without question, pictures of the gentry, not common folk. On the other hand, common folk did not have access to cameras and seldom had their photograph taken as a rule, so how prevalent the practice actually was, is not clear. Yet even so they are hard evidence that in Scottish society/ culture flat caps were accepted in certain settings as appropriate with kilts. Hard evidence...not opinion or supposition based upon personal preference or preconceived biases.

I might add, parenthetically, that I object to the characterization, implied in the subject, that opinions that differ from the majority or what is currently in vogue, are automatically "negative." It is, if you will pardon the observation...and no disrespect intended...like "kilt police"--a cheap shot in that it comes easily to the lips, requires no in-depth reasoning and costs nothing to make.

[macwilkin]

DW,

I deleted my original comment to Zardoz, as after thinking the matter over, I didn't want this thread to spiral into another debate over the issue of flat caps and traditions. For record, given Zardoz's reply to my post (before I deleted my original), I do not think he intended any malice with the term in question.

Regards,

Todd

[Phil]

To wear a kilt is not to dress up in some sort of historical costume. It is an evolving form of dress like any other, originally from Scotland, nothing more nor less. For anyone who attempts to pontificate that this or that "may not be worn" when kilted is simply trying to project their own tastes and prejudices onto others. Everyone is completely free to dress as they choose, provided they do not do so in a way that causes distress or offence to others. Forms of dress are not rigid and set in stone and to suggest they are betrays a certain supercilious attitude towards others who choose to go their own way. I know the "if it was good enough for my father/grandfather/great grandfather then it's good enough for me" attitude can prevail amongst those who are uncomfortable thinking for themselves but they should try thinking "outside the box" and realise that not everyone shares their views.

[DWFII]

DW,

I deleted my original comment to Zardoz, as after thinking the matter over, I didn't want this thread to spiral into another debate over the issue of flat caps and traditions. For record, given Zardoz's reply to my post (before I deleted my original), I do not think he intended any malice with the term in question.

Regards,

Todd

Todd,

I didn't think so either. I was just responding to the issues and the general tone (not specific people)--if it is stipulated that there is a preponderance of "negative comments" about flatcaps, how can any of the ensuing commentary not also be negative?

I'm a traditionalist when it comes to wearing kilts. In my personal opinion, (note emphasis) I think to deviate much from the conventions of Traditional Highland Dress borders on parody. But I like flat caps. I don't own one but...especially in light of all this discussion...it is on my list to buy and wear with the rest of my Traditional kit. I think I'll get a big 14" newsboy in a nice grey and green tweed.