New kilt in an older style

[Lallans]

I think I just folded it neater than in the painting. This was folded several times to achieve the effect here. I was worried it was too long when I first unpacked it as it is 3.5 yards long and about 29 inches wide, what you are seeing is a quarter of the width.

I'm guessing that the older photos reflect an aristocratic attempt at a 'wild and wooly Highlander' effect, which in turn would go back to the Great Kilts worn by the rural folks. Or am I wrong?