My own experience is that I started out with a couple of casual kilts and then ordered my "good" one, hand-sewn by Kathy Lare in 16 oz wool. I thought that this would be the one just for special occasions, as you mentioned. What I discovered is that, even with 5 other kilts in the closet, it's my kilt of choice for many occasions. It fits better, it looks better, and I feel better wearing it. It also doesn't need a lot of care. Don't think that once you get your good kilt that you'll only use a few times a year.

And, I second everything that Ron said about Kathy Lare's work!

Kilt on!