Sportkilt semi-formal?

[Tobus]

I have faked my way through 3 seperate formal occasions, as well as many churchgoings, and daily errands with my sport kilts, with nothing but good things said.
If I. Could afford a tank, I would have gone in that direction, but at least I had a tartan kilt to wear.

That's understandable. Not everybody can afford a tank and all the 'proper' accoutrements that would go along with it (Argyll jacket, waistcoat, etc., etc.). In cases like that, I agree that it's better than nothing if you can get away with it. And you obviously have. Ya gotta wear what ya can afford, and even traditional Scots understand that! They wrote the book on it!

But this doesn't mean that it is a true alternative to a proper kilt for dressing up, as originally stated by the person the OP quoted.

[Cowher]

But for about $20 more you can get a casual USA Kilt. And you look and feel better. I did the sportkilt thing to a nice event thinking that it was the only thing I could afford. I wish someone told me about the casual kilt from either USA Kilts or Skye Highland Outfitters.

[cdarwin]

I would go so far as to say that if your presence is requested at an event that requires a suit but you do not have the kilt equivalent, then just wear a suit. It is better to look appropriately presentable than to stand out in a crowd with a half hearted outfit. Also, there is no need to rush into your kilted endeavors. Take your time and learn of the different aspects of the kilt and what is important to you. Then start putting some money aside to get the one that is right for your needs. There are a couple of sayings that I think are worth mentioning.

"Purchase the best kilt you can afford"

and

"You can dress a nice kilt down much easier than you can dress a cheap kilt up"

If all you can afford right now is an $80 acrylic Stillwater Standard, then by all means go for it. They are a great value for knocking about in. However, trying to dress up a Sport Kilt is doing yourself a disservice, IMHO.