Am I alone in thinking that modern dyes whilst producing superb colours, can give a new a kilt a rather too bright effect?

So whilst as delighted as anyone when I get a new kilt, I will also hang it in the sun on a regular basis, so as to slightly fade it.

This to my mind tones down the brighteness of the tartan, and gives a much better appearance. Possibly better described as a softer effect.

A classic example would be the kilt of Loch Lomond District Tartan I got about three years ago-on first getting it, I had several comments about it being nice-but a bit bright. Now that it is slightly faded, it attracts remarks about it being a beautiful tartan.

Possibly I'm replicating the tradition of burying a new kilt in a bog for year to weather it ready for wear!

James