Hello from Tucson.

**Galant** · 7th February 05, 08:40 AM

New to the board, new to kilts. Haven't bought my first yet, but am considering it. To be honest, it's a bit overwhelming and due to the invisible nature of the purchase (online/distant correspondance) I don't know quite where to start. I've been looking at as many pictures as I can find to figure out what I like, but never having seen a kilt up-close before, it's hard to know what makes the difference between kilts that look good and fit right, and those who've worn them but something looks amiss.

It also doesn't help someone like me (24 years, 5'8", 165lbs) to see lots of older guys up and around 6' and 200lbs or so! I'll throw some pics of myself up soon, if that will help.

I think I prefer the idea of a modern kilt style, since I don't want to be seen as a wannabe Scot - all due resect to the Scots, I just don't want to be seen as a pretender.

Anyway, I'm learning quickly thanks to you all, and it's good to be here.

God's grace be with you all.

**Doc Hudson** · 7th February 05, 08:45 AM

Welcome aboard.

I really like your city and would love to live closer to it.

**Galant** · 7th February 05, 08:49 AM

Thanks. I should say I've only lived here in Tucson for about 3.5 years. Before that I lived and was raised in Northwest England. Lancashire in fact. Born in Gibraltar though, so I'm a weird mixture of places.

**M. A. C. Newsome** · 7th February 05, 08:50 AM

Galant,

Welcome to the board! I think you'll find a lot of advice here on purchasing yoru first kilt.

The big thing to remember is that you get what you pay for. As someone in the business, I'll tell you that an average price for a medium-weight, hand tailored man's kilt (I'm speaking of a traditional kilt) is around $500 US, plus or minus. So if you see someone offering a kilt that is too much cheaper than that, it should send up some red flags. Likewise, if their price is too much higher, I'd avoid them.

If you are looking for a less expensive alternative to a traditional kilt, but still want the traditional look, many kilt making firms are now offering a "casual kilt" or other alternative with less yardage (usually around 4). This is actually a very traditional thing, as the original tailored kilts of the early 18th century only had 4 yards of cloth.

In any case, a reputable kilt maker will be able to offer a quality product that is custom tailored for you, so you won't have to worry about it looking right on your frame -- it will be built just for you! That's what makes the kilt so great.

If you need any help/advice, I'm sure everyone on the board will be glad to chip in.

Aye,
Matt

**macwilkin** · 7th February 05, 08:53 AM

I used to spend quite a bit of time in Tucson when my grandparents lived in Phoenix -- I miss going to Sabino Canyon, San Xavier, Tubac, etc.

I think I prefer the idea of a modern kilt style, since I don't want to be seen as a wannabe Scot - all due resect to the Scots, I just don't want to be seen as a pretender.

All of my Scottish expat friends (and a couple still living in Scotland) don't feel that way at all -- they're happy that Yanks, Canucks, Aussies, etc. are proud of their heritage & the kilt, since the young people in Scotland are forgetting their heritage -- so don't sell yourself and your kilt options short! :mrgreen:

Welcome to the board!

Cheers,

Todd

**Hltoppr** · 7th February 05, 09:06 AM

Galant,

The Mesa Highland games are on the weekend of February 26-27. IIRC Utilikilts is scheduled to have a booth there....might be just what the doctor ordered. The UK guys (and gals) are great, and there should be other kilt suppliers at the games for you to look at.

**Casey** · 7th February 05, 09:33 AM

Galant,

Here is a 5'8" guy in a kilt.

http://www.bearkilts.com/mapleleafpg.html

Also, one hell of a kiltmaker. I would suggest that you take a look at the whole site to get some ideas.

**GMan** · 7th February 05, 09:45 AM

Galant,

WELCOME

I do love the area around Tucson, such a great place to hale from (even if it is only a few years).

You have already got some great advice, and the only thing that I can add is many great kiltmakers post here. Check out their sites and see what they have to offer, read the reviews and do not hesitate to ask tons of questions if you have them, that is what we are here for. And then you can let the jonesing begin, it is well worth it, and you will not be sorry.

Again welcome.

**philibeg** · 7th February 05, 09:51 AM

Height is not really an issue for kilt wearing, as long as your kilt is made to fit you...however, a sturdy pair of legs is always a bonus, but if nature has been unkind in that department, there are machines at the gym to fix that...