I like Rocky of USAKilts and have a really nice formal kilt from him, but may be biased as I live in the same town.

My first kilt was a Burnett's and Struth casual (special sale on 65 tartans). Their casual kilts are 5 yarders, comfortable, and very economical. I bought it as I, like you, wanted to feel my way. I'm not sorry to have done that as the casual kilts are lot lighter than the full length, so it's nice to have the two.

I will say, take great pains to get the measurements right.