Quote Originally Posted by Jock Scot View Post
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.