Less Can Be More

[CMcG]

I've been contemplating the general aesthetics of Highland attire and my own relationship to them. I'd like to share a few thoughts with the Rabble, post some pictures, and get some feedback.

Traditionally speaking, I think it is safe to say that rigorous matching of colours is out. This is often known around Xmarks as "matchy-matchy." On the other hand, going out of one's way to clash could end up being clownish...

There is a similar aesthetic when it comes to patterns. Too many matching tartan items can be just as undifferentiated as no patterns anywhere except the tartan kilt. Mixing sizes and types of patterns gives a lovely effect, but overdoing the vigour and/or number of said patterns can look just that: overdone.

Finally, there is the issue of accessories and design. One could easily buy every item of their Highland attire, from head to toe, as a specialty kilt accessory, which really isn't necessary and can easily be pushed too far. Related to this is seeking out the most stylized, esoteric versions of even the most essential accessories and then wearing them all at the same time, both of which have a potentially costume-like effect. Nonetheless, Highland attire tends to be flashier than the Saxon equivalent, so it's preferable not make it drab either.

Between the two poles of matchy-matchy and brigadoonish costume lies a wide range of options that allow for a great degree of personal taste in THCD. I'm starting to think that the best guideline, for me, is to pursue some sort of harmony between my kilted and non-kilted style.

My idea here is have my kilted attire reflect my overall personal style -- within the bounds of tradition -- rather than wearing the kilt as some sort of foreign attire. It helps that I've taken many style cues from kilt wearing and incorporated them into my daily, non-kilted attire I think this probably puts me on the more reserved side of colours, patterns, and design.

OK, I know that was quite general, so now it's time for some pictures, which are focused on daywear. I've scoured the internet to find examples of people who I would like to model my style on. Most of them happen to be royalty (one celebrity for good measure), so I think I can't go too far wrong here. I like how they look traditional, yet up to date and that they are well-coordinated without being matchy.

What are your thoughts on this?









More photos in the next post!