From "Normal" to "Formal" - the kilt's place as a Highland garment

[Jock Scot]

My Grandad McElmurry was a shoe repairman but would don his “Sunday goin t’meetin” jacket and tie for church and other special occasions. I suspect others in the USA up through the 1950’s who had no need for social or business dress also wore their best clothes to church. I am not suggesting a Scot would have taken his kilt out of hiding to wear on Sunday, just that some people (even those of little means) like to get dressed up on Sunday.

I don't think we differ by much then and things have become more casual in the last few decades, here in the UK. Also the advent of the "cheap suit" and the "cheap" kilt has brought these items of clothing within the reach of many more people's pockets should they choose to want one. Nevertheless "formal" and "dress" in the UK does not, even these days, mean a suit.