Value vs. Tradition

[Bugbear]

I think there's something else going on here; I could be completely wrong, though.

I'm not sure that you feel the same connection to the tartan as Jock or some of the other Scots feel to their clan tartan. I don't think you were born and raised with that being "your tartan," and it isn't in your subconscious that you are part of that clan.

Is it reasonable to expect that of you? I'm not sure it is. You might feel differently about the cost if the tartan was a natural part of who you are and who your people are, though.

Like I said, I could be completely wrong in the way I'm reading your post, but this is something that I have been noticing for quite a while now...

[ChubRock]

I think there's something else going on here; I could be completely wrong, though.

I'm not sure that you feel the same connection to the tartan as Jock or some of the other Scots feel to their clan tartan. I don't think you were born and raised with that being "your tartan," and it isn't in your subconscious that you are part of that clan.

Is it reasonable to expect that of you? I'm not sure it is. You might feel differently about the cost if the tartan was a natural part of who you are and who your people are, though.

Like I said, I could be completely wrong in the way I'm reading your post, but this is something that I have been noticing for quite a while now...

You are certainly on to something here. I carry the last name Dodge which is from my English Side of my Father. In the past I have never owned a Dodge. My wife on the other hand has wanted a DOdge for years and a couple of years ago bought a Dodge Durango.

I do not have the name MacLellan, but for the past twelve years found myself connected to the Scottish side of the heritage. Perhaps I don't have the strong connection with the MacLellan tartan, but I know once I buy a family kilt I will have a stronger connection.

Money is always a factor. The quality hand-made heirloom garments Lady Chrystel, Matt Newsome, Barb T and others make are out of my budget range at the moment and I don't want to invest in a $135 generic tartan unless it is a tribute to my Pop.

I guess I have been searching for a connection and have found it in MacLellan Ancient and next a USMC worn in honor.

Thanks for all the great advice friends.

[JSFMACLJR]

Money is always a factor. The quality hand-made heirloom garments Lady Chrystel, Matt Newsome, Barb T and others make are out of my budget range at the moment and I don't want to invest in a $135 generic tartan unless it is a tribute to my Pop.

I guess I have been searching for a connection and have found it in MacLellan Ancient and next a USMC worn in honor.

Might I be so bold as to suggest saving for a top quality kilt? "Good things come to those who wait."

I feel you will be much happier in the long run to get the best possible kilt.

[davedove]

You have to also remember that with a good quality kilt, you are not going to replace it in a few years like is often done with other garments. This is a life long investment as a well made kilt can still be worn throughout your life and longer.

Up front cost is a factor, but as others have said, save for it. Once you get the kilt, you may well find other excuses to wear it, even if the excuse is "you felt like it."

[Phil]

You have to also remember that with a good quality kilt, you are not going to replace it in a few years like is often done with other garments. This is a life long investment as a well made kilt can still be worn throughout your life and longer.

Up front cost is a factor, but as others have said, save for it. Once you get the kilt, you may well find other excuses to wear it, even if the excuse is "you felt like it."

I still have my father-in-law's kilt made in the early 1950's and still as good as new. We didn't have a "throw-away" culture in those days and a fine kilt is one of the few such things it is still possible to own.