Hey folks,

It's been quite some time since I was last here. So long that I have forgotten my old login.

Anyhoo, I have finally reached the point that I believe that I need to retire my Standard Stillwater Weathered McKenzie Kilt. It has lasted me for about three years and has served me well during that time... considering the relatively low cost.

I had the unfortunate experience of taking this kilt to the local cleaners to hopefully having the pleats pressed back into some type of shape. Unfortunately, the cleaners steam-pressed the whole shebang. The pleats are no longer even, but that's only a minor issue. The straps are the largest issue now. It turns out that the facing on the straps are a combination of some type of plastic that is glued to the leather strap. When the cleaners pressed the straps (don't ask me why) the glue melted, the plastic shrank and glue got on several places on the kilt.

So, I've ordered a replacement PV Kilt in "Heritage of Scotland" tartan from my local vendor, MacKinnon's Kilts. They were having a 12 days of Christmas sale. I also ordered some purple flashes and a jersey as well, for an options on outfits.

That being said, I am also looking at, finally, having a medium weight wool kilt made. Mr. Macdonald on this forum has recommended Ms. Kathy Lare to me on one or more occasions, so I plan to work with her, no intended offence to my local shops.

So, measurements are made, and I'm coming to the point contengency that we all face... What tartan?

I know this is a question that only I can answer. I've narrowed it down to either the popular "Isle of Skye", "Spirit of the Highlands" or my clan MacFarlane (Red) tartan.

I know that the first two are nice to look at, but as a piper who plays occasional gigs, I believe that my clan tartan, along with a doublet and piper's plaid would suit the traditional look of the thing.

However, the look of the IOS w/plaid with brown brogues, belt, and a grey or khaki doublet might give a different look to the setup.

Any thoughts?