Political Thoughts

[Dreadbelly]

There are a few basic "rules" of dress that apply if you don't want to look like an ascapee from the clown tent at the circus, but beyond that wear what's comfortable for you. I admit I don't, and never have, followed fashion and I've always dressed casually, at times to the point of barbarity, depending on what I'm doing. The simple answer is dress to suit the activity.

As a "barbarian" my self I take issue with using that word in a negative manner.

Bad press!!! Ugh argh ugh ugh oogah arghle!

[Manu]

You are very right Archangel. If you dont like something, I think a simple "well, thats not my style", or "not for me" will do the job. Anybody should be able to wear whatever they please without ridiculed by anybody.

[James]

I'd suggest that the importation of political concepts can only lead to factualisation: a major oops!

Too I do not think that anyone here would seek to inhibit the various ways in which the kilt is developing-and or how it is worn.

Rather problems arise when people talk about being true to their highland heritage in respect of the kilt, yet ignore or trample on the conventions that have developed over the centuries.

To illustrate this in my own case-I have worn the kilt since childhood-and am now nearly seventy: so can claim some slight experience. Further I was brought up with a certain pride in clan/family, and the connection between myself and my very being and such things as the tartan of my clan.

At the same time I well accept that the kilt is a dynamic garment - and take advantage of that when wearing such variants as the Gentleman's or Hillwalker, and in the way of wearing my kilt.

However I always remain true to those conventions, and do find it hard when people ignore them, for they are in fact riding roughshod over a proud heritage. A heritage which is important to many a clansman and woman.

James

[Iolaus]

You are very right Archangel. If you dont like something, I think a simple "well, thats not my style", or "not for me" will do the job. Anybody should be able to wear whatever they please without ridiculed by anybody.

That's usually the attitude I try to take as well, although, when I see something that's quite obviously cross-dressing, I find it hard not to be judgemental, at least in my mind, as too many of the uninformed tend to tie all schools of MUGs (bravehearts/freestylers/cross-dressers) together; I'm secure enough in my masculinity to go out "skirted", but not so secure that I want to be thought of as androgynous.

I know thats not what we're talking about here, but variations do tend to go extreme sometimes.

[Blu (Ontario)]

...Those who have ever had to work out dress codes know that the frame of reference is a Wall Street suit... It is hard for others to see it challenged.

It would seem to me that the fashion dictates of the wall street model is starting to slowly loosen up a bit as an increasing number of men dispense with the necktie in the work place. It's a small change, but it demonstrates that change is possible. The folks with real influence and power are those in the music industry. The fashion changes they've influenced is incredible.

... There are two issues, at least, that keep coming up. One is that people who may be having struggles breaking away from the Wall St. model are looking here and seeing more limitations. Why would they take that step?

The pinstripe suit is basically a team uniform... the kilt is a banner of independence.

... How can we expect acceptance when we can be seen mocking other people's baggy pants, and other kilt/skirt concepts? If we ridicule those people, we won't have their support/tolerance. We need that.

I know what I don't like and could probably express disapproval without being derisive. As far as "other kilt/skirt concepts" is concerned, I really haven't concerned myself with that... kilts seem to be doing nicely on their own.