So after a year (!) of procrastinating, it's finally time for me to get my first kilt. I've decided to go with USAK, because of all the great reviews, great photos I've seen and because I've emailed Rocky a couple times in the past week and he's been awesome (he responded to my first email within about ten minutes, and it must've been 10 or 11pm in his time zone! That's service!) I was going to have him send me a swatch, but I've pretty much decided on Grey Granite. I also decided that my first kilt will be PV, since spring and summer really aren't too far away (besides, this will give me a couple semesters to set aside a little bit of my tuition disbursement money to save up for a wool tank for next winter!)

But I can't decide whether to get a Casual or Semi-Trad (I'd order the Casual at Traditional Waist, not Jeans Waist.) I have right around $250, which would be enough for the "Casual Package" deal, plus the $25 rush fee. OR for a Semi-Trad with the $35 rush fee (The Casual package comes with a bunch of other great stuff which would save me some money initially.) I do like the more traditional buckles, but if all else is equal, I can hang with velcro (besides, I know that kilts didn't always have buckles anyway.)

Aside from the obvious differences (buckle vs. velcro, different belt loops), what is the real difference between the Casual and Semi-Traditional? I think I've seen it mentioned on here before, but couldn't find the thread.

Anyway, thanks for your input! And hurry it up, I'm itchin' to spend some money Seriously, thanks guys!