I would assume that when they say "casual", they're talking a 5 yard kilt as opposed to the 8 yard version. I have a couple of 5 yard kilts that are great but spend a little time on the forum and look at photos of kilts made in the different yardages to see if a 5 yard is going to be what you want...the 8 yard variety are the ones that look totally smashing and the 5 yard look a little less spectacular by comparison. Not that there's anything wrong with that...just so you know what to expect.

I'd also call your attention to the thread that forum owner Steve did about a "budget" kilt that he did some work on. The kilt in question didn't have all of the necessary internal components (stabilizers) sewn in...a production shortcut that showed that you get what you pay for...and Steve did a step by step photo tutorial on how he took it apart and put the components in. Just another thing that you should be looking for and asking the kiltmaker about before you put your money down. (I have a kilt that I discovered was, in fact, made that way...but I paid very little for it and accept the fact that it is what it is...thus far the lack of stabilizer hasn't really affected the wearing of it so it doesn't really bother me...now some of these guys will disagree with me on this and say that it's no good but, like i said, no big thing to me...I'm just gonna wear it and not loose any sleep over it...your mileage may vary.)

So, basically, it might behoove you to take some time and do a little more research as to a kiltmaker. I would contend that there's nothing wrong with going through someone who's a retailer. I won't disqualify a "nameless kiltmaker" because they may be able to give you something that will be satisfactory and at a price point that you're comfortable with...nothing wrong with that. Obviously, dealing with a kiltmaker that will give you personal service will be a different kind of experience and it will knock the price and quality up a bit...face it, you're getting some very skilled labor working on your behalf here and should expect to pay accordingly...again, nothing wrong with that if it's what you want. It's your decision as to where you want to jump in on this. I guarantee you that you can get a decent kilt for a modest sum if you go to the right place and that you can get a spectacular kilt for more money as well...just find a spot where you feel that you're comfortable and getting value for your money. If you're seeking opinion here, take them all in and balance it out...for some of the members here the sky's the limit and they're happy to spend freely to get something that they want and some can't see spending anymore than a certain amount of dollars to get kitted up. it's like fishing...you can go out with a zebco 202 or a hand made bamboo rod...you'll still catch fish...just be in your personal comfort zone.

Remember, too, that you're gonna be looking for that nicer belt and sporran and kilt hose when you get that nicer kilt...so budget accordingly!

Best

AA