my mocker

[Ugly Bear]

It's good to hear you say that all the different sytles and brands of kilts have their place in the kilt kingdom. I'd hate to think I'd be ridiculed or made fun of because I owned a kilt that was percieved as less than a "traditional kilt".

He's right, and not just because of levels of formality. There are a few other things to consider.

Practicality is one thing. Sometimes you just need pockets, and, no, a sporran is not always the best alternative.

Matching is another thing. When dressing, just about the easiest thing to clash with is plaid. With an all-tartan kilt wardrobe, you're really limited in what you can wear with it. Having some solids in the mix is a big help.

Then there's the weather. A wool kilt of any weight is bound to be too much in the summer. And a wool tank might not be enough to deal with cold weather. Non-traditional kilts fill these niches.

Anything else?

I'd hate to think I'd be ridiculed or made fun of because I owned a kilt that was percieved as less than a "traditional kilt".

Oh, right, that. You use your judgement. Wear a traditional kilt to a barbecue, and it's like Jimmy says. Wear a Mocker to Burns' Night and you'll be coolly received. But there's all kinds of situations in-between. I went to a Highlands gathering once wearing my UK Workman's, and I got both ends of the spectrum: purists who scoffed, and others who marvelled at the Workman's practicality ("It holds a SIX PACK?! Awesome!").

There's just no end to the surprises when you ditch the pants.