I want to thank Nick for replying on this thread. We will work out our differences through the proper channels rather than through a public forum. Working with kids and adults as I do, I know that there are always at least three versions of events: my version, your version, and what actually happened. I wrote my entry as a narrative, trying to show what happened from my side, but of course my story was coloured by my disappointment in getting a damaged package and then having some items not fit, and of course, after I had paid all the additional charges.

I want to state here categorically that the quality of the kilt is superb. I actually wore it last night as an outfit (without the jacket, and substituted a shirt of my own). The reviews were rave. I was certainly the talk of the event. I did not hesitate to say where I had got my kilt and vest, etc.

My disappointment comes in three ways:

First the packaging: Nick says that this isn't usually a problem and as someone whose business it is to mail order, he should know. I do suggest though for overseas orders, thicker gauge cardboard is used.

Sizing: I followed the directions, written and pictograph, to my best ability. As Nick says, different manufacturers use different methods, but the customer can't know that. I even sought out a professional to help me measure, and it seems we ended up measuring incorrectly.

Extra charges: Customs, duties, taxes and shipping are wholly my responsibility. I should have checked out with Canada Customs how much they would charge before hand--I did not. However, never in my wildest dreams did I think that the surcharges would amount to an additional 33%+. Had I taken that into consideration before I ordered, the story might have been very different. Mail-order businesses might want to include a rough guide as an extra bit of information to the customer.

And my comment about the belt buckle: I stand corrected. If this is the standard way of making them, then I can't really complain. It just wasn't what I had imagined.

Again I want to make very clear that the quality of the merchandise is first rate. The kilt is luxurious, fits perfectly (those measurements worked). The vest is very fine quality. Nick stands behind his product and did not hesitate to say return anything not to my satisfaction.

If someone wants fine Scottish made goods and knows/understands the extra charges, then Kiltstore would be a very good choice. I am sure I will have many years of proud wear of my outfit. I am looking forward to having the jacket and shirt in the correct sizes to complete it.

What have I learned? Make sure of all the charges beforehand. Use the telephone, as e-mail is not the best way of communicating. Be sure you know your sizes, and be prepared to wait a little longer than you had thought. Ask lots of questions. Mail-order is not the same as being in the shop and so you have to know exactly what you want and what you will get before you order.