You should go for 8 yards and with a good material say 16 oz (AR1 my choice of the best quality), don't be tight on how much you spend or you will look silly. The cheepo kilts are only good for getting drunk in etc. If you can afford it also purchase a 6 yeard casual kilt made of 16oz quality wool for the summer. Plus best wait till you arrive in Scotland before purchasing.

Ddisagree with others about only tartan being accepted in Scotland! A properly made black kilt is well accepteded in Scotland, I should know!!!!!!!!!! As for a UK then that is another matter of which I have no personal experience to comment upon.