New to kilts: Please help me make some sense of it all

**bman** · 25th March 11, 09:36 PM

I mentioned in my introduction post I will be getting a kilt after I lose weight. I am in a fast lose clinical program so it should be about 4-8 months total. I am interested in a contemporary style kilt or mug such as Utilikilt, Alt.Kilt or several of the Freedom Kilts. I am just really lost on this whole subject and want some help. I'll give a few reasons I want a kilt and features I like.

*First I want the comfort which seems to be the reason most get a kilt

*I like the look and feel (have tried on a couple Utilikilts and even a wrap around fold your own plett style)

*Pockets are a must

* I want a heavier material such as denim or Charhartt or so I think by what I have tried on.

I am open to any suggestion, question, extra...

Thanks!
Brandon

**Cowher** · 25th March 11, 10:32 PM

It's late. I can't sleep. Therefor I hope I'm not clouded but what is your question? I think you have chosen 3 company's of kilt makers who fit what you want. Your choice is witch one to buy first

Again sorry if im way off here

**bman** · 25th March 11, 10:42 PM

Yes, I would like some help choosing a company to buy from first. I like each one and need pros/cons, suggestions or even if there are other choices. Sorry if I am being confusing it is late and I am feeling a tad off.

Brandon

**xman** · 25th March 11, 11:13 PM

I don't wear any of those and Utilikilts don't really impress me from afar, but Alt Kilt and Freedom Kilts both look good. I can tell you that I saw some awesome heavyweight cotton in Steve's shop in Victoria. They are also wizards at the hidden pocket it is said. An Alt Kilt would offer more 'alternative' styling. Two good choices with competitive prices and custom options.

**The Wizard of BC** · 25th March 11, 11:55 PM

Let me give you the same advice I give all my customers.

First. Ask yourself what do you want to do in your kilt.
This will help you decide what features should be on your kilt.

Then ask yourself how you want to look in your kilt.
This will help you decide what style kilt you should choose.

Then combine the answers to these first two questions to you own personal style.
This will help you decide which kilt maker you should choose.

Each of us offer different features.
Each of us offer different styles.
And each of us offer different looks.

If your personal style tends towards that seen on the Utilikilts website then your choice is pretty clear.
For an alternative or Steam Punk look then an Alt.Kilt is your choice.
If you prefer a bit more traditional look then perhaps a Freedom Kilt would be your choice.

Try to look beyond the fabric as we all use much the same in fabrics.
We all have pockets but what style pockets will suit what you want to put in them.
Then finally try to look beyond the bits and bobs added to the kilt and look closely at the pleats, the aprons, and where the kilt is worn.

I think if you concentrate on chosing your kilt based on these things you may be able to narrow down your choices a bit.

Then, finally, call or email each of these makers and talk to the person who will make your kilt. Are they willing to work with you? Are they willing to listen to what you have to say and willing to take the time to talk to you about your choice? And then, most importantly, will they be open and up front with you about the product they offer.

Kilts are a very personal garment. This one piece of clothing, more than any other, must be compatable with your personal lifestyle and your personal style. Even if you choose an off-the-rack kilt sold by waist size it will soon adapt to your personal style. (Or you will adapt to it.)

So talk to your kiltmaker. Talk to other kiltwearers. Post here with lots of questions.
Take your time. Become informed and knowledgable. Only then will you still be happy with your choice three, four or ten years from now.

It is your hard earned cash. You should get exactly what you want. Don't settle for less.

**Spartan Tartan** · 26th March 11, 02:58 PM

If you have 4-8 months as you suggest, you have time to make an I formed decision (which I would suggest anyway). Steve haws some wonderful advice...I'd follow it. Take the time to discuss your needs/wants with the various companies you have mentioned. Then, call a couple more. You might be surprised.

**seanachie** · 26th March 11, 03:34 PM

Originally Posted by xman

An Alt Kilt would offer more 'alternative' styling. .

Having purchased from AltKilt I would say this is not completely accurate. Jeanie does have some alternative styles, but kilts like the AltKilt Classic plus her customizations allow for a pretty good range. My 2 have cargo pockets and the front buttons for fastening but the aprons and pleats are pretty much standard, in fact I would argue more so than a UK which has a very narrow apron.

**xman** · 26th March 11, 05:33 PM

Originally Posted by seanachie

Having purchased from AltKilt I would say this is not completely accurate. Jeanie does have some alternative styles, but kilts like the AltKilt Classic plus her customizations allow for a pretty good range. My 2 have cargo pockets and the front buttons for fastening but the aprons and pleats are pretty much standard, in fact I would argue more so than a UK which has a very narrow apron.

Good points, than-you.

**CDNSushi** · 27th March 11, 06:19 PM

My first kilt was a Utilikilt. Since then I've expanded into the realm of more "traditional" tartan kilts and somewhat prefer them. The one thing that I didn't know getting into the whole thing is that the apron of the UK is VERY narrow compared to many other styles and brands. It's for a reason -- so the apron can hang between the legs while seated. But I don't like that. If/when I buy another "modern" kilt it will likely be one with a wide apron, like the ones Freedom Kilts offers.

Just a thought.