TRADITION: let's (re)define it.

[CMcG]

This sub-forum's heading appears to indicate that traditional Highland dress somehow ended in the 1980's. My understanding of tradition, however, is that it involves practices that have evolved over time, are passed down through generations, and continue to be acceptable today.

What do you think about the way XMTS has defined this sub-forum?

"Traditional Highland Dress The place for discussion of Traditional and Classic Highland Apparel and Style. (Basically from the Reign of Edward VII to the 1980's"

[Cygnus]

Webster defines tradition as something that is "inherited, established, or customary" as well as a "characteristic manner, method, or style".

So, how about this?

"The place for discussion of Traditional and Classic Highland Apparel and Style. (Essentially the style of dress passed down from previous generations and still worn today.)"

As is the case with any tradition, that does leave the door open for things from the modern forum to migrate here given enough time, while the previous definition left that door shut tight.

[cdarwin]

I think it's just a heading and shouldn't be taken too seriously. I think that when we spent too much time debating such minutia, we devalue the existing content of the forums. And yet, here I am wasting valuable time and web space with my opinion on a minute detail that will not make a bit of difference if it is changed or not. The irony of my own hypocrisy is not lost on me.

[piperdbh]

Here's my contribution:

THCD noun def: how Jock does it

How's that?

I doubt there will be any agreement about a certain time period or a certain style being "traditional", and, quite frankly, I don't see the need to redefine "traditional". I say, let's wear what we want, and if we're trying to do it Jock's way, he'll tell us what we're doing right and wrong. If we want to wear t-shirts and flip-flops with our other-than-tanks, then there will lots of company in that boat, too.

10-4, over and out.

[Jock Scot]

Here's my contribution:

THCD noun def: how Jock does it

How's that?

I doubt there will be any agreement about a certain time period or a certain style being "traditional", and, quite frankly, I don't see the need to redefine "traditional". I say, let's wear what we want, and if we're trying to do it Jock's way, he'll tell us what we're doing right and wrong. If we want to wear t-shirts and flip-flops with our other-than-tanks, then there will lots of company in that boat, too.

10-4, over and out.

I do happen to think that the XMTS definition of "traditional" is unsound.

Alright, you are very kind and I know what you are saying is well meant in a lighthearted way and it is probably true, that my kilt wearing attire and style is fairly traditional, BUT, IT IS NOT THE ONLY WAY that the kilt can be worn and STILL be traditional!

[creagdhubh]

I do happen to think that the XMTS definition of "traditional" is unsound.

Alright, you are very kind and I know what you are saying is well meant in a lighthearted way and it is probably true, that my kilt wearing attire and style is fairly traditional, BUT, IT IS NOT THE ONLY WAY that the kilt can be worn!

My sentiments exactly Jock. I too feel the XMTS definition of "traditional" is unsound - perhaps some editing there is in order? I don't know. I am also in agreement with piperdbh in reference to "THCD - Jock Scot", but I would also mention Sandy, David, Matthew, Scott, Todd, Steve, Hamish, myself, and others as wonderful representations of the THCD look, which does have, in itself, an overall, distinctive 'look' in my opinion.

Slainte,

[Nick the DSM]

Traditional: To look snazzy in a kilt.

[beloitpiper]

Classic: to withstand the test of time. The question is, in 50 years from now, is what you are wearing going to be considered dated and "fad-ish" or classically stylish and timeless?

[Tobus]

I think we probably all know what "traditional" is, but defining it in words is rather difficult.

Personally, I think it would make more sense if we described it as "Scottish traditional". That, to me, narrows it down to what the Scots do. And like Jock Scot mentioned, there are many ways it can be worn (and indeed has been worn) by the Scots. So there is not necessarily one single tradition today. Nor has it been the same tradition over any particular period of time. But overall, looking at the subject as a whole, it's pretty easy to recognize that Scottish tradition is fairly well established, and this is a good line of demarcation for separating it from other styles of kilts and kilt-wearing.

[starbkjrus]

OMG!

I cannot believe someone started this thread.

I'm going to my bunker now.