Actually, my friend, Graeme, who owns the fine local kilt emporium, Arizona Kilts [shameless plug], contacted the gal who does his kilt alterations & she recommended essentially take the kilt apart, shortening it the desired amount (in my case 2½ inches) from the top & then remaking the kilt.

Since I've taken a fancy to the unique character of this kilt & am already in for a fair amount (£239.50 / $485), I'm seriously considering this course of action.
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