A Newbie Question

[Bluethunder90]

I have a newbie question, and one that may be silly, but though I am not yet even kilted, I must ask it.

It is pretty obvious from my profile picture that I am not of Scottish descent, so my question is; what, if anything, can I expect to be said about someone like me, of non-Scottish descent, wearing a traditional kilt?
I have no heritage linked to any particular tartan, so I would choose a tartan based on personal preference. I would not wear the kilt in any way that would disrespect the Scottish culture, or the heritage and history of kilt wearing, but, being aware of the nature of the American culture we live in today, I thought I'd ask.

Unless expressly told that my wearing a kilt would be offensive to someone's heritage, I have intention of letting anything discourage me from wearing a kilt, but I thought I should ask.

[Dughlas mor]

I wouldn`t expect to hear much at all. We all get looks when wearing our kilts out in public. By far, most comments are positive. If anyone were rude enough to question your "right" to wear a kilt, you can respond any way you like, right up to telling them to mind there own business. I guess I`m not really qualified to address the issue of skin color, being a white guy, but I don`t really think that it is an issue at all. I don`t have any Scottish blood that I am aware of, and I really don`t feel the need to find out if I do. I have an abiding love for Scottish culture and history, and though I sometimes question my own motivations for wearing the kilt, so far I am carrying on, and I try to respect the culture as I do. I think that you have a great attitude, and I can only say "go for it!" Now, on to questions like what kind of kilt, what fabric, tartan, accessories, etc. Lots to ponder! Best wishes on your kilting experience.

[The Q]

An appropriate tartan would be the Hawaii state tartan, and if you get queried on the kilt point out the Union Flag in the corner of the Hawaii flag, the Union Flag includes the Scottish flag of St Andrew.

[Laird O'the Cowcaddens]

As a former Jock of the Scottish Div, I remember the kilt maker stationed in Edinburgh Castle as being a rather large (300lbs) black man. I would rather see a man smartly turned out in his kit, who has no direct link to the culture, than one who looks like a gypsies tip, that does. I say welcome to the Rabble and get stuck-in.

[Todd Bradshaw]

I'd just expect folks to say "That guy looks really good in that kilt!" Anything less is their own loss.

[ctbuchanan]

You will find kilted gentlemen of every race, creed, color and country of origin. Just look to the many regiments of the Commonwealth countries who wear the kilt and those who just like it. Welcome to the rabble. And wear it with pride - well, just as soon as you get one, which you will. Followed by 2, 3, .....

[Mikilt]

Don't expect anything. Just wear it well and wear it confidently.

[rebelrouser]

dayton , Ohio July 15. Kilts make friends !

[Lake Mist]

Fair Winds and Following Seas.

The Celtic Croft has a US Navy Tartan and Clan Badge. You might want to check them out.

[Katia]

You've had a lot of great responses so far. I'll add that I wouldn't necessarily expect your skin color to dictate what your heritage and ancestry might be. I know plenty of darker-skinned people, of all races and ethnicities, with some ancestors Caucasian, and just because you might not guess by looking at them doesn't mean it isn't so. Anyone who wants to ASSume... well...

It probably mostly depends on who you meet. Some won't mind you wearing a kilt if not Scottish. Some will not mind as long as you wear non-clan tartans (and I'm surprised no one has suggested the XMarks tartan to you yet!). And some will be offended that you would dare wear a kilt. Be prepared, though, that you might get members of the public who will ask if you're Scottish, and act disappointed if you say no (some people are really into the "romance" of it all). It happens to everyone.