Kilt wearer banned...

**beloitpiper** · 28th September 08, 05:54 PM

(From the article):

Mr Robson said: “I think this is completely racist towards Scottish people.

Ok, now I think both people on either side of the argument are a little crazy. One side claims to differentiate between "smart" and "fancy" dress, and the other side is calling racism?!? Ugh, I'll just stay out of it I guess.

**Nick** · 29th September 08, 01:52 AM

Originally Posted by beloitpiper

One side claims to differentiate between "smart" and "fancy" dress...

Here that's a clear distinction. 'Fancy dress' is everyone in a group dressing up in cheap caveman costumes and doing a pub crawl, or a costume party, etc. It doesn't mean black or white tie. That's why it's especially offensive, it's quite explicitly calling the kilt nothing more than a cheap costume worn for laughs.

**beloitpiper** · 29th September 08, 07:35 AM

Originally Posted by Nick

Here that's a clear distinction. 'Fancy dress' is everyone in a group dressing up in cheap caveman costumes and doing a pub crawl, or a costume party, etc. It doesn't mean black or white tie. That's why it's especially offensive, it's quite explicitly calling the kilt nothing more than a cheap costume worn for laughs.

oh, well that explains things a bit, actually. Yeah, now I can see why he's pissed, but that still does not qualify as racism...at least in my book.

**Phil** · 29th September 08, 08:02 AM

If they don't like the kilt then they don't get my business. I must say all the times I've been to Newcastle I've felt more at home than in places further south so I'm surprised at this. I can only assume they aren't Geordies.

**JerseyLawyer** · 29th September 08, 10:27 AM

I'm assuming, since I can't see the article at work, that he's just wearing a "regular" kilt of some variety, in which case calling it "fancy dress" (that is, a costume, and in the Dracula for Halloween, not in the "it's our national costume" sense) is offensive. Like many kinds of trousers, a kilt can be "smart" or casual or downright sloppy depending on the accessories.

Now, if he has a swath of plaid fabric draped around him, is barefoot, not wearing a shirt, has his face painted, and is festooned with highland weaponry, then I might agree that it's fancy dress and not entirely appropriate. (You know you've seen these people at highland games. Don't deny it! ;) )