Thoughts on Erskine's thoughts . . .

[TimC]

[Posted this earlier today to wrong forum]

He emphasizes a number of times that highland dress is a "free dress" and each wearer chooses their own style. At the same time, he gives advice as to what amounts to good taste.

Thanks for pointing this out. I worry when someone post a picture on the forum only to have it picked apart by "rules" of kilt wearing. I understand the need for pride and respect toward what the tartan represents but not at the expense of another. I apprecaite when someone points out that my flashes aren't hanging right, but just because someone is wearing hiking boots in their picture doesn't mean someone should lecture on the proper hose and foot attire. The kilt is about freedom.

[motorman4life]

Thanks for pointing this out. I worry when someone post a picture on the forum only to have it picked apart by "rules" of kilt wearing. I understand the need for pride and respect toward what the tartan represents but not at the expense of another. I apprecaite when someone points out that my flashes aren't hanging right, but just because someone is wearing hiking boots in their picture doesn't mean someone should lecture on the proper hose and foot attire. The kilt is about freedom.

I agree with Tim wholeheartedly. If someone is not making a joke of the kilt and tartan, and being intentionally disrespectful or mocking, it does not matter to me whether they are wearing a traditional self-kilt with tied leather leggings or wearing sandals and little ankle socks. Kilts are all about freedom and free experession and guys should be able to wear them however they like. Short, long, with or without a sporran or cargo pockets.

Whether you have direct family ties or not, wearing a kilt is a sign of respect for Celtic heritage and an outward exhibition of masculine confidence.

[Hamish]

Thanks for pointing this out. I worry when someone post a picture on the forum only to have it picked apart by "rules" of kilt wearing. I understand the need for pride and respect toward what the tartan represents but not at the expense of another. I apprecaite when someone points out that my flashes aren't hanging right, but just because someone is wearing hiking boots in their picture doesn't mean someone should lecture on the proper hose and foot attire. The kilt is about freedom.

Tim,

I am sure that most of the "picking apart" comments offered here are made from a good taste point of view rather than those of "rules of kilt wearing" - unless, that is, the subject in question is uniformed or dressed formally. Wearing the kilt in a casual manner is all about self-expression, where there are no 'rules' as such, but good taste certainly enters the equation. To me, colour co-ordination and visual balance, representing good taste, are of great importance at such times - for my own comfort and satisfaction if not for the impression given to the beholders!

[Paul Henry]

Taste is such a very subjective thing, there was a great exhibition many years ago at the V&A in london, where the curator actually made suggestions ( tongue in cheek) as to what "taste" was. It certainly was very thought provoking.
I don't think that I am likely to get the full "rig" mainly because I don't especially like the look, but I really enjoy wearing kilts on a casual or everyday basis, and that often means boots and walking socks , not hose and ghillies!!