What to consider when shoping for a kilt?

**Friday** · 1st August 12, 08:31 PM

I fully support a road trip to Franklin, Matt is great and very helpful. The first question the comes to my mind is how are you going to wear the kilt? I believe, the care and feeding of a Poly/rayon kilt is easier than a wool kilt. Throw it in the washing machine, pull it out and smooth the pleats and let it dry. This is not to say that the care and feeding of a wool kilt is that difficult but it different.

Also, if you are going to wear it day after day where the chance of catching the fabric is high I would rather tear a Poly/Rayon kilt that a wool kilt.

Think about when, where, and how you will be wearing your kilt this may have some impact on which to get as your first.

**McElmurry** · 1st August 12, 08:37 PM

My wife and I found the local games very enlightening. You can see just about every kind of kilt worn in many ways. We quickly arrived in the buy the best kilt you can afford camp. You, of course, may arrive at a different conclusion.

Trying to evaluate swish of different kilts while not appearing to stare at guys rear ends takes some practice.

**Spartan Tartan** · 3rd August 12, 04:19 AM

A slightly different angle...certainly buy what you can afford. However, I would consider who you want as a kilt maker first. They will be able to discuss your options directly as well as have additional insight.

that said, I prefer wool as well. It really isn't noticeably warmer than PV and we have been at 110+ degrees F the past week or so "up" here in Oklahoma. If properly cared for, both materials will last a long time.

Final thought, to echo others, take your time to get it right. Otherwise, you will end up not happy and just have a kilt you never wear...what's the point of that?

**Lanny68** · 3rd August 12, 06:48 AM

John,
I have been looking at your site. You are one of the kilt makers I am been try to get information on. I actually want 2 kilts. But the cost will require me to but them over time. I want a tweed kilt and a tartan kilt (formal).

**Lanny68** · 3rd August 12, 06:51 AM

Matt,
I actually paid a visit to the Scottish Tartan Museum yesterday. It is only about a 95 minute drive for me. I really liked the example of the different pleats. I now understand better what each pleat looks like and how pleating to the strip and the sett can change the appearance of the tartan. It was very helpful.

**Lanny68** · 3rd August 12, 06:59 AM

Guys, Thanks for all the advice. I clearly sit in the buy the best I can afford. I always have sat in that camp because a quality made garment or item will last for decades. I can tell you right away that a PV kilt is out of the question. I don't like man made fibers. I prefer wear only natural fiber in all of my clothes. I want 2 kilts. A tweed and a tartan. The tartan being for more formal dress. With that said I know I will have to buy things piece meal.