Are there any kilt makers in the UK which stand above others in quality?

[OC Richard]

Is it pretty easy to get an accurate jacket measurement by yourself with the help of another person? Or is it something you would recommend getting done in person?

I've been wearing kilt jackets for nearly 50 years and what I've found is that giving measurements almost never results in a jacket that fits the way you want your jacket to fit.

In August I went into every kilt shop I could find in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and a side-trip to Kilmarnock.

In shop after shop I saw the same jackets from House of Edgar and St Kilda/Gaelic Themes. I have a jacket I got on Ebay with a Lochcarron label. I also have a Geoffrey Tailor jacket.


All these jackets fit the same. In fact they look as if they're made by the same people, though various places state or imply that they make their own jackets in-house.

What I've found is by far the best way to get a jacket to fit is to try on jackets and find the right size. Then I can purchase a jacket from any of the legit UK firms and I know it will fit.

I've found that the least successful way is to send somebody measurements. I've had places do crazy things like add 8 inches to the waist, to send me a Long when I didn't order a Long, and other goofy things. And you can't return these mutant jackets because they're bespoke.

But yes, if you happen to be able to order a jacket in person and they have an experienced person who does the measuring then you'll probably be fine.