How find the guts to go kilted in a conservative community?

[Noobie]

I finally did get that Kilt that I was pining after (2 actually ^_^. One traditional and one modern.) But so far I haven't worn them outside of Fantasy events as it really sticks out here and while I would not be ostricized by my close friends (They already know I'm not quite a conformist) I am concerned about the rest of my peer group who already don't seem to like talking to me.

Yeah I know - You have to do it or not and get over being a sissy about it. I just wonder if there are any tips for psyching myself up to do it and downplaying the possible negative repercussions?

I've never had much in the way of fashion sense so I'm going to also ask, at least for the modern one, if there are any stylistic suggestions to go with. I'm more or less going off all the pictures and discussion elsewhere for the traditional.

A third and perhaps less closely related question. I've recently discovered I have family ancestry tying into the McGill clan and have been looking to pick up their tartan. Is there a restriction on wearing something like with an officially registered family without their specific approval?

[sharpdressedscot]

Nope you can wear any tartan you wish, but if you want you may contact the clan for approval.

Dude, just wear it and don't give a flying duck about what other people say, it's a garment for men and it's awesome, remember that. You may feel alone, but once you show that you mean business and continue to wear the kilt despite the crap taken, they might show some respect or even join you! Follow the way of "Not Giving a Crap."

[Mark Keeney]

If you have a group of friends invite them over to hang out wearing the kilt. Let your friends know that you are just getting used to being around people and want supportive people around. Then the next step is to go to a public place with some of those friends for support.

Actually it really is less of an issue than you imagine. If you wear it neatly and with confidence, people may be curious and ask questions, but you will have a rehearsed polite reason for wearing the garment made for men with lots of heritage in its design. If you wear it without confidence they will sense your uneasiness and decide if it acceptable. Don't give them that power.

There will be people who have to find a way to put people down to build their own confidence, and a kilt is an easy mark. Just be the polite gentleman and let them look foolish.

[SteveB]

Noobie,
If you have worn the kilt and have become accustomed to sweeping the pleats when you sit, you already have what it takes. Wyoming has a lot of cattle ranches, and therefore a few cowboys. I am sure that an occasional business suit is worn, but not many. Just as my East Coast tail can wear jeans without ever branding steer, you can go about your regular routine in a kilt. The point is to be normal in the kilt, as if that is what you wear everyday. In confidence. I am an old and fat man, yet being kilted has given rise to many favourable comments from the ladies. There is on the current roster of threads one on dealing with the less desirable comments.
Rocky-
" Idiot: Nice skirt your wearing!
Me: Thank you, nice pajamas your wearing!
Idiot: But I'm not wearing pajamas.?.
Me: I'm not wearing a skirt either."

I wear the kilt everywhere except in work due to safety requirements that I keep the legs covered. Just as well... A pair of denim jeans is a lot cheaper to replace when a piece of steel has gone through them than a traditional kilt. I will get comments from people who have seen me out and about if I am NOT wearing the kilt....Just as some men are known by the John Deere hat they wear, I am known by the tartan I wear. Even in rural hicksville.

[Nick the DSM]

well, if you put your hands on your stomach, feel around and you should find some guts.


dont worry about it wear it with pride and giving a deuce about waht other people say or think

you can wear whatever tartan you want.

[ardchoille]

I have been wearing kilts as my daily attire for years and I can honestly say:

The people who talk/gossip are going to find something wrong with everyone and then dwell on it - the folks who make fun or derogatory remarks are simply showing their true colours, it has nothing to do with what you're wearing. Your true friends will remain your true friends regardless of your dress/likes/dreams/personality/etc. (a kilt is an excellent way to separate true friends from the deadwood). So, be happy.. be comfortable.. and be yourself.. live by your rules, not the rules of others

ps. there are thousands of members in these forums and you're accepted here

[Bugbear]

Good luck.

[CelticRanger66]

Just do it I have been wearing kilts almost daily since I was 5 yo. In the middle of the bible belt in central Va. The kilt and me being catholic I took constant abuse but over time it mellowed out and me and my family were just those Kilt people. Just be yourself and do it. Sure some people will say something stupid but just let them exercise their free speech and ability to show their ignorance.

[Jeff]

Set up a kilt night and start being in public with like minded people. That's how I was able to start wearing my kilts.

[James MacMillan]

Just do it!