My turn to take a stab. I think I will likely disappoint some, but I agree with Jock and MacMurdo that the kilt is the centerpiece and should not be scrimped on except to a point. I think it should be a full 8yd 13-16oz traditional knife pleated klt, but am willing to let that for either level be a quality well fitted machine sewn from a reputable vendor rather than necessitate it being the all out handsewn---cheaper, and as long as it fits and is constructed well I think probably looks nearly as well, but comes in farther underbudget in most cases. Choose the tartan you lke best, preferably becasue it has some deep and personal meaning to you-----family, military servie, etc...

Everything else I say simply that I agree with Jock with one exception. My agreement is to buy quality in everything---price does not necessarily equate to quality, as some deals can be had on good stuff if you are a good scot and shop thriftily and well, but in genreal you do get what you pay for. My exception is that I personally do like a bit of variety, so I do have several kilts, several jackets and waistcoats, several belts and buckles, two pair of ghillies plus my casual shoes, numerous ties and headgear, and more than my fair share of nice quality but relatively inexpensive kilt pins and other minor paraphernalia (thanks to ebay) to help dress up the final look just a bit more and be able to add some variety to the wardrobe on an as needed basis.

I must admit I do not know enough yet to be able to do the full out dress regalia, and have limited stock and resources, so the upper end IDEAL stuff I am just not as familiar with to be able to comment too far in that arena. But I think so far I have done well and made quality yet frugal and well thought out, well sought out, purchases on my own budget, and that is what is important. The scot's way.