Quote Originally Posted by Hamish
... but I don't think I have ever worn boots with pulled-up hose (although I may have done in my virgin kilting days!). Nowadays, no matter what the weather, if I need to wear boots then down goes the hose...
With the bitter winter upon us here in Ontario, I'm wearing mine up! In fact I wore 2 pairs at once yesterday and was darn glad I did.

... I too dislike the look of the traditional Ghillie shoes and, in fact, I have never owned any - although I am considering buying a pair to wear with my Prince Charlie at black-tie 'dos'. I have a few of those coming up in the spring.
It's a look that I grew to like with a jacket and tie once I learned to tie them properly. Although I would never consider wearing them casually. They have their place.