To plaid or not to plaid.....thats the question??

[DyerStraits]

I'm sure we've all struggled with the Fly Plaid Dilemma. Of the bazillion kilts I own I have matching plaids for four (Black Stewart, Royal Stewart, Freedom Of Scotland and Honour Of Scotland), and I truly love wearing the plaid because I think it's dashing and dramatic, and for me it's those qualities which also define when I wear one and thus avoid looking costumey. Although I always wear a kilt to the opera, I only wear a fly plaid for the initial season Opening Night performance (see first photo). As for other formal events, I agree that if you're going to be dancing it's better to forgo the plaid, and in general wear one only for ceremonial or sober formal events--weddings, funerals, prestigious award presentations where you are the recipient (see second photo), etc. That said, one of my mantras is that it's always safer to be overdressed than underdressed--you can usually discreetly remove the plaid, cravat/necktie/bow tie, spats, plumes, sashes, crowns, etc., if necessary.