Quote Originally Posted by bubba
As I recall, Bear makes his 8 yarders the same way, not stitched down. I'm not sure why but I know I prefer the pleats stitched down about 6 to 8 inches from the waist. Better to preserve ones modesty in the wind
Bubba,
I don't stitch down the pleats on my four or eight yard kilts because kilts are more comfortable without the stitching. The pleats are deep enough that they don't wander, so there's no need for stitching.
If you need your pleats to be perfect because you're in a pipe band or you're going to a formal function, you might want to rent or buy a traditional wool kilt. A casual kilt is good enough for me on any occasion. Others need to follow tradition more than I.
My Raven Cut kilts have a waistband that sits at the hips, giving the same effect as stitched down pleats. Personally, I prefer the freedom of the classic cut or grizzly cut but I do like having the pockets on the Raven Cut.
Modesty is not a big issue with me, or the Kilts Night Regulars. In the parade, there was a lot of hem flipping and spinning, much to the delight of the crowd.