Welcome Drillagent,

Money certainly is a factor. Sounds like you're a prime candidate for the USA Kilts semi-traditional in PV.

But, if there's any way you can swing a hand sewn wool kilt from someone like Barb Tewksbury or Kathy Lare then its gonna be worth it.

For me, the wool kilts are for the tartans that I am most honored to wear, that I wanna stand tallest in, that touch my heart and swell my chest because of their meaning to me.

Not sure about other kiltmakers, but remember, Kathy Lare only takes a deposit to get started, then balance when the kilt is complete. That lets you keep saving toward the cost of the hand sewn while she's bringing in the fabric and doing the sewing.

Sadly, I don't think any photos do justice to the difference between PV and wool kilts - but in person the difference is incredibly obvious. That isn't to put down PV - but to build up wool.

Don't know if it means anything, but of the 48 kilts I own 18 are PV and 9 are wool. (okay...two leather, and the rest cotton or cotton poly)

Don't know if this helps...



Above is a hand sewn wool kilt by Kathy Lare in the Leatherneck tartan. There's some wind blowing the pleats about.



And this is a pic of the USA Kilts semi-traditional in PV in the Army tartan, also with some wind in the pleats.

Take some time to explore Hamish's gallery too...some excellent close ups of wook and PV kilts, might help you decide.

Which is more beautiful, the rose or the orchid....personal choice.

You can't lose either way.

Ron