With time more diverse kilt wearing

[TechBear]

I would remind people that what a Highlander would have worn while hunting in the 16th-17th century has no bearing on the rules and etiquette of proper modren Scottish attire, nor should it. Otherwise we end up surrounded by people dressed as "cartoon" Highlanders wearing all the latest fashions found on the newest bog body to be dug up.

Frank

And therein lies a distinction that I think should be made. I have several Utilikilts which I wear in lieu of shorts when it is warm. While UKs are based on "proper modern Scottish attire," they are actually an American garment. As such, I do not feel constrained to follow the rules and etiquette regarding proper modern Scottish attire.

Typically, I wear my kilts with Birkenstocks and a short sleeve button down shirt. When I go hiking, am working in the yard or otherwise need better foot protection, I wear socks and hiking boots.

[Chef]

While UKs are based on "proper modern Scottish attire,"

UK's were actually based on cargo shorts.

[SteveB]

OK gang, I posted earlier on the styles of wearing the kilt that I personally found important to me. I do not believe the same opinions or standards should be had by all. Life would be a real boring bummer.
I would not coordinate a pair of threadbare Levi's, worn out sneakers with a ruffled shirt, black bow tie, cummerbund, and dinner jacket and even dream of attending a formal event. Nor would I nip down to the corner grocer in full top hat and tails either. I feel that much the same applies to the wearing of the kilt. I respect the Scottish identity that the general public tends to favour on a kilt that has a plaid or tartan fabric, whether a ****-kilt or an Anderson full wool. If the kilt is of plain colour, whether in traditional knife pleat, fringed apron pocketless, or Utilikilt type with visible or hidden pockets, I treat it as an American garment, similar to cargo shorts, and wear it far more casually. This is only my take on it. I know of musicians that have decorated tartan kilts in a manner that reflects the "Punk" music movement. Some have posted here. That is their choice and I respect them for it. I enjoy wearing the tartan kilt in public. I have worn the other forms around the house and in the area. I have found that after a short period of constant kilt wearing, the kilt is a natural part of how I kit. It is now so natural that I do not have to think about it in public. I know with confidence that everything will be proper as I amble about my day kilted. Somehow I convey being a little more proud and confident of myself whilst kilted. That is how I honor my very diluted Scot heritage.
I respect whatever others do with theirs.
I will soon master being confident in a great kilt. I right now am practicing the pleating, belting and wearing using some cheap plaid fabric while around the house, before going out in public in real tartan.
I certainly will not be so disrespectful as to visit Glen Coe in a Campbell tartan.
----Steve