Quote Originally Posted by Tobus View Post
The example at right is certainly a unique way of wearing it, and I would imagine it requires some assistance to get it wrapped just so, in order to end up with a neat and tidy finish like he has (i.e. everything laid smoothly and evenly, without bunching up the jacket or twisting it round). It seems like a brilliant solution, especially for walking in a procession like this where the simple over-the-shoulder drape tends to constantly want to fall off.

The one in the middle with it behind his back and over both shoulders probably had the same issue and decided to wear it that way to free up his left hand for whatever it is he's carrying. What I like about this photo is that it shows such varied ways of wearing the day plaid, as well as the use of the day plaid as a civilian ceremonial bit of garb. I am assuming these are clan chiefs or dignitaries, and in my opinion what we see here was the height of Highland daywear.

As for the scorn some people have for the plaid, well, I suppose the primary complaint is that it's too costumey. I think it certainly has its place for something like a parade (as in the photo), or other ceremonial event where one is on display and expected to make a good showing. Additionally, I would not hesitate to wear mine when there's a threat of inclement weather, where I might need to put it to use for warmth or as an impromptu rain coat. But I do think it's a bit much for just regular old daywear. When there isn't a ceremonial or practical need, it comes off as a slightly anachronistic bit of costumery.
The over-the-left-shoulder style is probably the most common for non-band members, and the central figure is wearing his plaid in the way often sported by shepherds - I wear mine in this way occasionally.

There are a couple of other ways which I have also seen, one of which is to have the plaid across the body from the left shoulder to the right hip, and with the plaid in a half-knot at the lower right. This can be seen in old engravings.

The other style is for the plaid to be wound around the waist with a half-knot at the left and the remainder of the length of the material thrown over the left shoulder.

I have only recently come across the 'Laird's Plaid' term, knowing it only as a 'plaid'. Pipers', drimmers' and fly-plaids being recognised versions for specific reasons, but I have to wonder why specifically 'laird's plaid' for what here in Scotland is simply a plaid. I mean, a plaid is a plaid, and how it is worn is a matter of personal choice and really has nothing to do with status.

People often use the term 'shepherd's plaid' when they really mean shepherd-check for the pattern of the cloth, I have noticed, which conjours up all sorts of images in the mind and leads to amusing conversations.