Regarding the concern that kilts might be discredited as mens wear if a significant number of women wear them.

I contacted Barbara Tewksbury about this. She had a few points in reply:

1. Women have less incentive than men to try kilts. (Unless there is an ethnic connection-Barb T. is herself a piper). Women have far more options, especially the variety of unbifurcated garments.

2. In terms of appearance many women (and some men) have figures that aren't straight enough for kilts. A kilt type design hangs best on bodies that are straight, trim, and have flat bellies.

3. An additional point was that because feminine figures have so many different shapes, it is probably not worth trying to define a "universal garment" for women.