"That's not a real kilt"

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

Hi Jock and welcome back-- and "howdy" (as the Americans say) to heilanner-- I'm in lock step with you guys.

As far as Nighthawk's comments are concerned, well, I think they are a bit OTT-- I doubt anyone would object to a poly-cotton kilt cut along traditional lines any more than we'd cock a snoot at a silk kilt. But, and this is as big a BUT as the lady on the bus who sits next to you has, when you step away from the traditional kilt, it ceases to be a kilt. About the only variations proper kilts have are style of pleating, and number of straps-- 2 vs. 3. When you add snaps, cargo pockets, etc, and make it out of kevlar, naughyde, or some other "fabric" then it really is just a skirt. Comparing a kilt to a sarong?-- well that's just silly.

As far as the "slacks" issue is concerned, MEN wear trousers, and WOMEN wear slacks. Just ask Kate Hepburn. Have men's trousers changed in 100 years? Hardly at all. Are they made "skimpier" than before? Yes, especially when they are retailed in mass market outlets. Does it matter? No, because for most men trousers are a utilitarian work garment unlike the kilt which, by-and-large, is worn in more structured social settings.

(BTW-- a friend in Edinburgh told me about your accident; you are one tough "auld crabbit" to have pulled through. Glad you're back.)