Hello, everyone! I've been hand sewing historical clothing for many years now and have been eager to make a kilt for quite some time now. I have the fabric ordered and have researched the heck out of things--thank you TAOK, YouTube, and this forum--and can't wait to begin. One thing I am still a bit fuzzy on, however, is how to deal with a larger waist measurement. I've read previous threads and found the towel trick, that was helpful, but I am still uncertain about how to proceed. With the expense of the cloth, I really don't want to screw this up.

Pre-towel, I am a 49.5" natural waist and a 47" hip, after towel my hip is 49". I had planned on doing a 50/50 split. Will the pleats along my hips fall appropriately? This has been the most confusing part for me. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.