traditional vs. classic

[Jock Scot]

If you want to wear a shoulder plaid, "Lairds plaid" as they seem to have been christened here, then wear one. They had their uses for centuries, of that there is no doubt, but these days there are better and more efficient options to protect us from the elements. Personally I found them a damn bother for most of the time and in all honesty I think they are heading into a borderline costume situation.

[creagdhubh]

If you want to wear a shoulder plaid, "Lairds plaid" as they seem to have been christened here, then wear one. They had their uses for centuries, of that there is no doubt, but these days there are better and more efficient options to protect us from the elements. Personally I found them a damn bother for most of the time and in all honesty I think they are heading into a borderline costume situation.

I would agree that they are mainly for ornamentation these days, and there is no doubt they have an elegant and regal look about them. They could definitely be functional, but I would seriously doubt someone really using their plaid to battle the elements at a Highland games or some other social event-more or less, the person would opt, in my opinion, for an indoor escape! LOL! Everyone has their opinion and is entitled to it-that's why I love and adore this forum!

[Tobus]

If you want to wear a shoulder plaid, "Lairds plaid" as they seem to have been christened here, then wear one. They had their uses for centuries, of that there is no doubt, but these days there are better and more efficient options to protect us from the elements. Personally I found them a damn bother for most of the time and in all honesty I think they are heading into a borderline costume situation.

Well, honestly, if one's main concern is modern efficient means of protecting from the elements, maybe the kilt itself isn't the best choice either.

But I think most people would agree there's some level of compromise between functionality and tradition. I love the traditional look of a shoulder plaid when worn wrapped around the chest (as in many of the portraits from the 1800s). But I agree it would be a bit of a bother to wear... and more so if only draped over the shoulder like a folded blanket.

The "borderline costume situation" aspect is quite a conundrum. I suppose some people could pull it off, looking marvelously traditional and like they were born to wear it. Others might look like they're wearing a costume. The difference between the two is hard to define.

[Jock Scot]

Well, honestly, if one's main concern is modern efficient means of protecting from the elements, maybe the kilt itself isn't the best choice either.

But I think most people would agree there's some level of compromise between functionality and tradition. I love the traditional look of a shoulder plaid when worn wrapped around the chest (as in many of the portraits from the 1800s). But I agree it would be a bit of a bother to wear... and more so if only draped over the shoulder like a folded blanket.

The "borderline costume situation" aspect is quite a conundrum. I suppose some people could pull it off, looking marvelously traditional and like they were born to wear it. Others might look like they're wearing a costume. The difference between the two is hard to define.

Actually in some circumstances I would back, above all else, a heavy wool traditional kilt to protect me from the elements any day.

[Highlander31]

Actually in some circumstances I would back, above all else, a heavy wool traditional kilt to protect me from the elements any day.

I agree with Jock. Where we live on the coast, we have cold driving rain that that can find its way through most clothing. I walk the hillside trails pretty much every morning. My kilt with a woolly pully keeps me warmer than trousers and long johns would.

I have posted the photo below before, however,it is a good example of our weather. It was taken moments before a squall line moved on shore.