I don't know about fewer stares, but the tartans in my experience tend to bring about fewer off-color remarks... which could reduce the anxiety suffered by some of those who are new to wearing kilts.
Speaking for myself, I broke myself in a couple years ago (I started with a couple UK's) usually wearing them to celtic festivals, and to places where out of the ordinary dress was the norm. As I got used to the comments I would get...I started wearing them everywhere with very little trepidation. Any more, people are more surprised to see me wearing trousers.