So You're Going To Speak To Someone Who's Wearing A Kilt

[Riverkilt]

We need to pool our brains and write a book titled
"So You're Going To Speak To Someone Who's Wearing a Kilt."

What suggestions would you have for the book to help educate the general public on polite ways to initiate and engage a kilted gent in conversation?

Ron

[McMurdo]

One of the most important things I learned after sobering up was that most people should treat others the way they would like to be treated. I can see no reason why engaging a kilted man in conversation should be any different. Just talk to the man in front of you

[JRB]

One of the best ways I find to break the ice is to ask the person what tartan they are wearing. Or, if I know the tartan, I'll say "excuse me, but is that the xxxxx tartan?" Those questions almost always spark a good exchange because it immediately lets the kilt wearer know that you are interested in the kilt in a positive way and that you are at least a little bit knowledgeable.

[KFCarter]

Talk to the person, not the kilt.

Once you get to know the person, you'll find it's easy to talk to them about the kilt all you want... in fact, look out, you may get more information about kilts than you were bargaining for.

[RedbeardNeil]

Do not encourage your children to point and laugh. The man you are laughing at at the moment may be the man you are working for soon.

If you like the kilt, say something, if not, say nothing. As the famous quote goes, it's better to close your mouth and be thought a fool than open it and get it knocked shut for you...or something like that.

If you don't know anything about kilts, tartans, or the like, do not pretend that you do. A kilted man would be the last person for you to argue these details with.

If you want to insult them and run, make sure you are in better shape, are smaller, and those annoying things you put over your legs don't get in the way of your stride.

[Riverkilt]

Sorry, let me explain further...we are seeped in traditions that non-kilt wearers don't know.

Things like, its rude to ask what he's wearing under the kilt. I've had the nicest most polite people ask me that question...its like they can't resist.

Things like, the purse-like device in the front is called a sporran. Please don't call it a fannypack because that has a different meaning in some countries.

Intent is to help the person be polite when asking questions about an unfamiliar turn out.

Maybe I'm expressing myself poorly here - thought is what if "we" wrote an adjuct to Thompson's book for folks curious about initiating converstations with kilted strangers.

Seems like we'd have many specific suggestions beyond just a blanket "be nice."

Ron

[McMurdo]

OK
Asking what tartan and what the significance is, however do not argue with the man wearing said tartan that just shows ignorance.

Asking where the kilted gent got his kilt is always welcomed.

Asking in a condescending tone "Why are you wearing that?" Is not welcomed ever.

All of this depends on who is asking and who they are asking. The other day I was leaving home and a little girl about 5 or 6 said to me
"You look B-eautiful in your skirt!" it was so cute all I could do was smile and say thanks.

[dfmacliam]

Do not assume the kiltedan is a piper/ drummer/ or band member. Do not assume there is a parade, or special event.. Do not call the kilt wearer gay, then say the kilt wearer looks sexy... it makes you sound gay... Omit this last part if you are gay, and you do find the kilt wearer sexy..and he is gay too
call it a kilt, not a skirt... It is not necessary to know if the kilt
wearer is wearing any knickers, unless you plan on showing him, that you are not wearing any.

And so on

[Merlin]

Honestly...I've never understood the fascination with "what's under your kilt".
Is it appropriate to approach a lady in a skirt and ask her if she's wearing any panties?
Can a man not go commando in a pair of shorts just as easily?

I saw a T-shirt once and wish now I had bought it that said:

Yes I'm Scottish
No I don't play the bagpipes
Yes I've eaten Haggis
Yes the kilt is comfortable
None of your business

It made me laugh because it seems to hit the top 5 questions.
BTW...if you know where I can get this T-shirt.... please let me know. I cannae find it again.

[Zardoz]

Let them know that;

"I hope you're wearing something under that"
"Are you wearing that like a 'true Scotsman'?"
"Whatta y'all wear under there?"
"It must take b@lls to dress like that"
etc...

Are not good ice breakers if you want to speak with me!