Not real kilts?

[Colin]

In the opinion of one who is completely ignorant of such matters, I reckon that if it looks like a kilt, it's a kilt. The 'handsewn in Scotland' thing seems a bit silly to me. Now on the other hand, if anyone was to ask me about Yorkshire puddings, I can say with certainty (and only half-jokingly) that if it isn't baked by a person who was born in Yorkshire, it ain't a Yorkshire Pudding.

So I think there's a bit of national/regional pride coming into both of those equations. But one thing's for sure - my attitude about Yorkshire puddings isn't going to affect the taste of one that was baked by someone who has never set foot in Yorkshire, and I think a similar thing can be said about the kilt.

However, the use of so-called 'Yorkshire Pudding Mix' is insulting. If you must use a mix, it's better to do without.

I actually used to think along the same lines. I mean I own 4 non-traditional tartan kilts (3 Bearkilts and 1 Canada Kilt). I wore all 4 of those kilts regularly and proudly. I thought they were great and "who needs to blow the cash on a traditional when I can get 2-4 more new style kilts for the same price?".

However a month ago I ordered a traditional handsewn 8 yard kilt from www.scottishkilts.net and I have to say that after wearing it only twice, I am never going back. While the price is a bit high the fit, weight, feel, and appearance of a traditional Scottish kilt can not be matched. I had heard the same thing myself from other members and always kind of blew it off. Now I know exactly what they were talking about. My 8-yard Bear kilt is a spectacular garment with a wonderful weight and swing to it, but even it pales in comparison.

So while some of us might not see the "value" or "use" or a true Scottish kilt, some of us that were introduced to kilt wearing by the new style kilts have seen the light and are now going for true quality* rather than quanity.

* The Bear kilts are a quality made garment, and one which I would still recommend to those that can handle the wait time. Bear makes a great kilt for casual wear. I am, however, selling the 8 yard Bear kilt (Royal Stewart) as well as my Canada Kilt (MacKenzie) and likely my dress sporran from Canada Kilt (with one of the kilts only).