Advice on a first kilt?

**Séamus Ua Proinsias** · 25th March 11, 06:01 PM

Well said, well said, everyone! Ach! Sláinte! This is all too much to have hoped for. Thanks so much. I am indeed waiting and working for my weight to stabilize before getting the capital-K Kilt, which will be the best I can afford; ere then, however, when I'm in within three inches of my target, I'll spring for a trial kilt -- I'm still not sure whether a heavy-weight Stillwater or one of the polyviscose ones MacMillan's son directed me to.

And as far as those who don't care for kilts (or any other such barometer of character, for that matter), I like to invert what dear Groucho Marx said, and say instead, "I wouldn't be a member of any club that wouldn't have me as a member." And she me bonny bride –whenever we should end up running across each other– more than any.

Off for my evening constitutional. Much thanks again!

Y'a bon,

Jake

**Mike M.** · 26th March 11, 10:19 AM

Thinking about it, there's another way to skin this cat.

A belted plaid. Since you pleat it to fit, it should be a lot more adjustable.

**Dale Seago** · 26th March 11, 06:21 PM

Originally Posted by Mike M.

Thinking about it, there's another way to skin this cat.

A belted plaid. Since you pleat it to fit, it should be a lot more adjustable.

Absolutely -- I've worn a feileadh mor with modern shirts, sweaters, shoes, etc. plenty of times.

**Séamus Ua Proinsias** · 26th March 11, 09:32 PM

That's an interesting thought. But I do wonder if that's the best introduction to kilting. Diachronically appropriate, yes, followed by a four-yard box-pleat and then a tank, but synchronically, perhaps a little costumey for daily wear.

Do you mind if I ask if you happen to have a picture or so of a féileadh mòr trimmed modernly, sir? I'm afraid I can only imagine it in a 16th century style.

**Dale Seago** · 27th March 11, 01:33 AM

This was taken in December of 1999.

In Japan.

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pi...&id=1199617140

**Séamus Ua Proinsias** · 27th March 11, 01:37 AM

Thanks very much. That's a very nice look. I have now added féileadh mòr to my (ever and quickly growing) wish list, and it doesn't register as costume.

Is that four yards of double-width cloth?

**Dale Seago** · 27th March 11, 01:51 AM

Thanks! 4.5 yards, double-width, heavyweight. Worn with a canvas button-down collar shirt, Irish cable knit wool sweater-vest, Balmoral, Rob Roy style sporran, hiking shoes.

**Mark Stephenson** · 27th March 11, 09:07 AM

I think there is something good to be said about a 5-yard knife-pleated kilt. I have both 8- and 5-yard kilts in "Stephenson Modern". When the hot summer weather arrives, the 5-yard kilt is easier to wear. The 5-yard kilt is also more economical than the traditional 8-yard tank. Being made of 16 oz wool, it holds up great, and it does look great even though it doesn't have exactly the same "swish" as the tank.

**Séamus Ua Proinsias** · 29th March 11, 10:31 PM

Thanks, Mark. Even though I generally hold up pretty well in heat, I can imagine the three yards less being a bit of a boon at times. And for variety's sake –not to mention completeness'–, that's certainly high on that list, too.

Is the féileadh mòr hard to put on, or is it just something that's gotten used to? (And now I think I have a picture in my head of what a Balmoral looks like. I always confuse that and the Glengarry. Thanks.)

I can't wait to go to my first kilt night and actually see this swish, and to feel it..."And what is more, you'll be a man, my son." Yes, yes, I know; patience is a virtue. Back to the tartan design and reading about the ins and outs of kingussies and reverse kingussies for me.