Are kilts only for the rich? rant.

**DWFII** · 3rd August 08, 07:59 AM

BTW, I enjoyed Matt's post on this subject and thought it was very well expressed.

**hospitaller** · 3rd August 08, 08:51 AM

Matt, Cajunscot and others,

I want to reiterate (as it again seem that my point has been lost) that my rant is NOT about the cost of traditional (aka wool hand sewn) kilts.

And my rant was not aimed at those who can afford them, many times over.

My original point was/is, it sure would be nice if those who can, refrain from looking down or making snide remarks about those of us who can NOT.

I'll repeat it again, I am already saving for what will be my one and only (due to cost) hand sewn Young Tartan kilt.

But in the meantime I will wear what is available to me. Cheapies.

And proud of it.

slaint and thanks for the comments and replies.

**macwilkin** · 3rd August 08, 08:54 AM

Originally Posted by hospitaller

Matt, Cajunscot and others,

I want to reiterate (as it again seem that my point has been lost) that my rant is NOT about the cost of traditional (aka wool hand sewn) kilts.

And my rant was not aimed at those who can afford them, many times over.

My original point was/is, it sure would be nice if those who can, refrain from looking down or making snide remarks about those of us who can NOT.

I'll repeat it again, I am already saving for what will be my one and only (due to cost) hand sewn Young Tartan kilt.

But in the meantime I will wear what is available to me. Cheapies.

And proud of it.

slaint and thanks for the comments and replies.

Hector,

I can't speak for Matt or anyone else, but I understand your point. Would you amend this statement:

My original point was/is, it sure would be nice if those who can, refrain from looking down or making snide remarks about those of us who can NOT.

To include something about those who cannot afford traditional kilts to not judge or make assumptions about those who do?

That's all I'm asking for -- if we're going to ask one group for respect, then the other should return it.

Again, I have no problems with casual kilts or those who wear them.

T.

**DWFII** · 3rd August 08, 09:01 AM

Originally Posted by cajunscot

To include something about those who cannot afford traditional kilts to not judge or make assumptions about those who do? That's all I'm asking -- I have no problems with casual kilts or those who wear them.

T.

I think that's an excellent point...one that often gets overlooked.

I would add this comment to yours:

If you really come down to it, very few of us can really afford a "traditional kilt." In the larger scheme of things they tend to be a luxury. One that takes a lot of scrimping and discipline to aspire to, much less actually acquire.

**hospitaller** · 3rd August 08, 09:02 AM

ok cajunscot,

though I have not made assumptions about those who can afford the expensive kilts, I have made clear that SOME of them do make snide remarks.

So I guess this is the clarification you want?

**Freelancer** · 3rd August 08, 09:03 AM

Originally Posted by pdcorlis

To be honest good sir - I think this "rant" is a bit of a straw man. I read this forum daily and have done so for years. I'll admit I may not be observant enough - but I'm not sure I see any sort of trend of "kilt snobs" belittling those that choose to follow a path that includes less expensive kilts.

I agree with pdcorlis on this. I've read many posts on this site comparing kilt quality of construction, fit, material etc vis a vis their costs. The same comparisons which can be made for anything man made you can think of. Many have expressed their opinions and preferences for this, that or the other. But, I really cannot recall any negative, denigrating comments toward anyone for their choice of kilt or their reasons for choosing such. I do notice the generous support and accolades which the members of this forum bestow upon other. Well, perhaps it's just my rose colored glasses!

**macwilkin** · 3rd August 08, 09:05 AM

Originally Posted by DWFII

I think that's an excellent point...one that often gets overlooked.

I would add this comment to yours:

If you really come down to it, very few of us can really afford a "traditional kilt." In the larger scheme of things they tend to be a luxury. One that takes a lot of scrimping and discipline to aspire to, much less actually acquire.

Exactly, DWFII. My Highland kit represents a serious investment over the years, as well as birthday/anniversary and other gifts from friends and family.

My Wilkinson Sword Sgian Dubh, for example, was a gift from my dear wife which I will always treasure, especially since Wilkinson is no longer making blades.

My grannie always said, "good things come to those who wait". Yes, I would love to go buy all of that kit I would like -- but the anticipation is just as much fun as the actual purchase.

Regards,

Todd

**macwilkin** · 3rd August 08, 09:06 AM

Originally Posted by hospitaller

ok cajunscot,

though I have not made assumptions about those who can afford the expensive kilts, I have made clear that SOME of them do make snide remarks.

So I guess this is the clarification you want?

Never said you did, Hector. You've behaved like a gentleman, and I salute you for it.

Yes, I suppose this is what I'm looking for.

T.

**Doomsday** · 3rd August 08, 11:39 AM

Originally Posted by macneighill

Me personally, I bought an 8 yard, 16oz worsted wool in my Clan tartan. Why, because I had the money at the time. If I didn't have it, I would have definitely looked for an alternative.

Hear, hear, I had the same experience. About six years ago I bought my first kilt from Geoffrey tailor, the best kilt that money could buy. At the time I was single and working full time with no debts. I could afford it. Now, however, I am married and have a two and a half year old boy. I cannot afford to buy a kilt like that now. So, i go to Joann fabrics and buy what I can afford and then sew it up myself. I will wear my "cheap" homemade kilt with just as much pride as I will wear my "8 yard, 16oz worsted wool in my Clan tartan." Anyone that "looks down" on a man because he cannot afford the best, for whatever reason, and as such creates for himself something that he can afford truly needs to rethink their priority's in life. However, having given my little rant, I have to say that on this forum, at least, I have seen an overwhelming acceptance of those who cannot afford the, best of the best. And, if you've made your own kilt than, more power to ya. There are not all that many people who can say the same.