So you want to wear the kilt?

[Dean]

A question... I am not Scottish, but I see the kilt as a comfortable garment that looks great.

I first started seeing modern kilt variations at Sci-fi cons and Ren Faires. I even saw guys wearing tartan kilts with t-shirts and hiking boots. (VERY cool look.) I researched on the internet and found so many modern kilt makers and community sites. (This was back in 2005.) I started guaging the quality of kilt makers the only way I knew how...I would just check if Hamish said they were good or not. I saw him as THE kilt guru / "guy who really knows what he is talking about." (I still do...)

Before I bought my 1st kilt I went to the library and picked up "So you want to wear the Kilt?" (I had to get it through inter-library loan...out of print.) I gobbled it up. I wanted to make sure that I did not make a fool out of myself. I also wanted to make sure that I could answer some basic questions if anyone asked. So I saved up some money and ordered my 1st kilt from Utilikilts. (Olive Survival) The service was great and I love the kilt! I had never worn a garment that was so well made! Kudos to UK!

The bug had bit me! My second kilt had to be a bit different. Something for a different mood perhaps. I found R-kilts online and after much thought I ordered a kilt from Robert. Once again, great service! I must have made Robert a bit crazy while he was making my kilt because I kept emailing him asking if I should have the cargo pockets or leave them off. (Sorry Robert if you are out there...) I got my dark brown R-kilt...very different from my Utilikilt. Full front apron, extra pleats (Robert through those in for me...even after I bothered him so much), tough leather adjustable straps, all around quality workmanship. Made more like a traditional kilt fit, it took getting used to after wearing my UK. (UK was the only fit I had worn until then...low on the waist and length to the bottom of my knees.) My R-kilt is a beautiful kilt hand made by someone who takes pride in their work!

Now I am looking into getting my 1st tartan. (I have been reading through all of the different threads on XMarks for all the info I can get.) Anyway, I am getting carried away here. I have said all of the above to ask a question to the more experienced out there. Or even to Hamish...

It seems to me there is a bit of a "kilt revival" happening. Or at least guys are starting to be men and wear what they want in spite of what the more closed minded think. Why not write a book? An updated version of "So You Want to Wear the Kilt?" One that includes the newer styles and variations of kilts that are now available. (I in no way mean to disrespect the original book.) Maybe even include some of the experiences of modern kilt wearers...

This is a long message, but a question I have wanted to put out there for a while now.
Don