New Blood (Kilter)

**MacFett** · 17th June 10, 10:06 PM

Just a word of warning, of my 15 kilts the only one I am not happy with is my sportkilt. I have a PV Blackwatch that I've worn at least twice a week for 2 years and it is in great shape. My sportkilt I've worn maybe 5 times out of the house and a dozen inside and it is piling and covered with places the material has snagged. Many other issues with it but the piling and snagging are the main ones.

Too bad you weren't at the VA Faire last weekend (Celtic Weekend) Brad was there with his kilt booth. His shop is in Alexandria. Drop in and see what he has. He'll set you up with everything you need. Tell him Danger Erin sent you.

**Downunder Kilt** · 18th June 10, 01:51 AM

You will find a lot of suggestions around here about how it's best to start with this or that, but whatevever you get, be aware, this is a very addictive business

If you or your good lady are handy with a needle, sewing machine, I would stongly recommend downloading the free Xkilt pattern from the web (designed by Alan H) You can make a couple of kilts, non tartan, fot a $100. I would suggest then getting a wool kilt in one of the Irish county tartans or the saffron, if you like that colour.

As for shirts and other accessories. I recommend Op/thrift shops for things like waistcoats/vests, belt buckles (that can be put onto leather belts made from Tandy blanks) There are also a number of threads on this forum that illistrate how to cut a regular suit jacket down to a kilt jacket, just use the search function

As I said Beware, you have started an addiction, all the best on your journey

**Mike_Oettle** · 18th June 10, 03:11 AM

Having worn khaki hose tops (with red flashes) as part of my parade uniform in the regiment, I personally see no crying need for “proper kilt hose”.
At least here in South Africa, a lot of men still wear long socks. It might be a problem getting them in the traditional colours that go with kilts, but for informal occasions any adequate-length socks will do.
And I have seen several pictures of kilted guys in T-shirts with socks around their ankles (not my style, though).
Tartan hose is a big expense (at least from my perspective) and for the most part unnecessary.
Flashes also are not essential.
But, having said that, it would be worth investing in socks that reflect an Aran pattern, at least for more formal occasions. And I would never tell a kilted man in tartan hose that he was overdressed.
I have already ordered two pairs of flashes. I do want to do this kilt thing the right way, even if it’s without all the bells and whistles.
Regards,
Mike

**Jerry** · 18th June 10, 04:33 AM

Glad to see that you decided to join us here at Xmarks. You've already got some pretty good advice, but I'll echo what most have said. There are very few "restricted tartans". Many here, are traditionalists and wear only tartans to which they have some family connection. But, most say. "wear what you want, but wear it with respect and learn about the tartan that you choose". Here is the link to Allen's sticky for the Xkilt making instructions.

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...ownload-20085/

If you make it to the Meadows Highland Games and Celtic Festival in Doswell this October, there is usually a guy there that makes some decent leather sporrans with straps instead of chains. Most of his are priced under $50.00.

**Maxblade** · 19th June 10, 05:42 PM

my next question to ask the masses: Corduroy "Prince Charlie"

Basically I would like to have a little extra "Church Nice" wear for when the cold weather comes and one of the things I can do is get my sports coat altered (I only wear it once in a while anyways so it is a good candidate..but its corduroy.)

I know "there are no kilt police" but what are your opinions?

Currently I have a MacLaren and hope to soon pick up an Irish National, both would in theory match well with the colors...

Examples of the Corduroy Jacket in case you would like a visual:

http://primergreyblog.com/wp/wp-cont...sportcoat1.jpg

http://www.menswearhouse.com/webapp/...ye?cm_vc=40160

**billmcc** · 19th June 10, 07:26 PM

There is nothing wrong with shortening a jacket to wear with a kilt. Many X-Markers have done so. However, a PC jacket isn't suitable for church as it is a formal jacket with tails.

toadinakilt · 23rd June 10, 10:03 AM

Not a corduroy PC, but a corduroy Argyle... now that would be something. Paired with a denim kilt and a plaid shirt... we may have an indie-rock kilt look in the works!