Because I'm often asked about making a SportKilt into a more "traditional" look... here's a few things that you can do with a sewing machine to make it look a little more "wearable".

1). The front apron has no taper, and usually is not uniform in the pattern. By "ripping-out" the sewing on the right side, you can re-line the edge with a 1.5" taper to resemble a normal kilt. Make sure to do the same on the left side. If you're able (and have the skill) try to match the tartan pattern. This may mean that you need to rip the waistband for about one or two pleats... straighten-out the pattern and apron width, then re-sew the thing. It's really not that tough to do.

2). The pleats are OFTEN not straight when they arrive. Get a hot iron and line-up the pleats so that they're straight. When finished, you can sew a "permanent pleat" into them by sewing a line from the beltline to the bottom, about 3/8" in from the edge.

3). If you're really bold, the hips can be tapered and sewn-down too. Start at the right side and move to the left as you're going. This will help to control any bunching on the underside.

4). On the underside apron, there's usually extra material on the left-side hem. You can cut some off and re-sew the hem, which provides material for belt loops. This allows you to wear a belt, which covers-up the elastic bunching on the waistband, and looks a little more authentic. For an example of how the beltloops should be made, just grab a pair of Levis and see how easy they're made. Sure it's not Scottish Traditional, but then we're not Scottish Kiltmakers!

It, by no means, is a 10-minute alteration. However, when you're finished it will be a little more presentable... by XMarks standards.