In large part the D.L.E. depends on the magnitude and shape of the hips in question; where the prominent horizontal stripes lie on the pleats, and the size and colors of the stripes.

A skinny guy can probably get away with anything; a medium sized guy (say, turpin) slightly less; and a heroically figured kiltie wants to avoid horizontal stripes if possible.

The Isle of Skye pleating (Example 1) (Example 2) which enjoys a particular vogue displays some heathery, muted colors rather than a bold contrast. I believe this may help.

My initial reaction to the MacDougall pleating was that the somewhat narrow horizontal stripes would look fine on a medium-sized kilt. To my eye, the pairs of wider stripes at the waist and near the hem look nice. Possibly they would emphasize the shaping of the waist and the swing of the pleats? I was pleased that I agreed with Barb's highly educated opinion, although I'm not sure whether my rationale is the same.