Too Traditional?

[CMcG]

Yes, that was the way in Scotland for much of the 20C just as it was in North America and elsewhere, Colin. As Jock says, it is difficult to properly explain. It is not that it is or ever was "traditional" in the Highlands to own just one kilt, but for most of us it was economically impossible to own more than one -- unless we inherited, which I did and I believe Jock did, too. Many others I know had the same good fortune. But the fact is that until very, very recently, there was not the wherewithall to have closets full of clothing, Highland or not. We largely made do with what we had and that was the tradition. In many ways it has remained so to today.

...

The occasion and its relevance is an individual thing. Sound familiar?

Very well put ThistleDown, thank you. I like the way you have relocated tradition back into its original, more natural context.