I'll throw my tuppence in here too.

I got my first kilt in 1949, and it was a hand-made wool "tank" as the entire family (seven children, inlaws and Grandchildren, were descending upon Tobermory, Mull for my Maternal Grandparents 50th wedding anniversary.

If it hadn't "shrunk" about 10" around the waist, I would still be wearing it. A Kilt, will last for generations. The making of one is a highly skilled craft, taking about 20 hours of labour for a skilled kilt maker to complete one. The fit will be perfect, as they are made to the measurements of each individual.

If cost is truly a big problem, then do go either Stillwater, Sport Kilt, or one step up and get one made to measure by Rocky at USA Kilts but of a less expensive fabric. If you can wear the "off the peg" items, consider yourself fortunate. I was not able to do so until after I gained some poundage after age 50! Still nearly everything is skimpy and a bit too short.

I like the advice about making your own. If you do, it will do two things. The first is you will by the second or third try, get a garment that will fit you perfectly something none of the off the peg things are likely to do.

The second will be an appreciation of the Kiltmaker's art and craft, and then the custom made "tank" will look more reasonable.