I think if future generations of non-Scots take to wearing the kilt in large numbers it will be for style and comfort. That would mean more universal fashion tartans and more contemporary kilt construction. I see young people in the west slowly losing interest in their ancestors. In my opinion, the youth are not interested in history as much as the present and the future.

On the other hand, I doubt that Black Watch and Royal Stewart will ever disappear. (Even if their roots are forgotten.)

Am I wrong? Is there a steady increase in genealogical research or is it a passing fad? Are people really interested in their ancestry, Scottish or other? Do they place value on it? My opinion may be influenced by the attitudes of people around me who have set their minds on where they want to go and not where they came from.

Now that my crystal ball is warmed up, here's what I see:

The next generation will be influenced by the present generation's style of dress, be it smart or sloppy. I would be happy to see the contemporary kilt take on a conservative business style and/or a neat casual everyday style. I don't see any guarantee on that, though. And to me, sloppy is unsightly in any form.

The kilt patterns the next generation will wear will be influenced by what is important to them. Kilts with team colors, contrasting pleats, vertical lines and black. Lots of black and leather with studs and pockets for your electronics. A kilt that looks like you stepped right out of the matrix. Wear it low on the hips, Dude.

Bands will choose tartans that create a unique image to make them stand out from the competition. School tartans, state tartans, corporate tartans, custom tartans.

And wool? Who can afford wool or real leather? Or for that matter, a hand-sewn kilt? In steps China to the rescue! Out go the dollars over the sea.

Does this sound like a Nightmare on Kilt Street?
(Make me wrong about all this, please!)