Evening Plaid/Belted Plaid Without Fringe?

[Kriegbert]

Hello, I am going to obtain a Sheriffmuir doublet, and plan on getting a belted plaid (aka evening plaid, drummer's plaid, "half" belted plaid) for it (the type that is tucked into the belt at rear of kilt so it "flows" out of it). I like the look of the féile-breacan, but cannot stand having to assemble the whole thing each time I want to wear it (even with an integrated belt). I've thrown out the possibility of a fly plaid (seems a half-hearted attempt at emulating a great kilt; and looks a bit iffy with it just hanging from the shoulder, separated from the small kilt) as well as laird's plaid (too bulky!).

So, just to avoid confusion, this is the item I'm talking about: http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...-no-1-a-89582/

ie a 3-piece construction: belt/tape + main cloth + gathered end for tucking into epaulette

So as we know, the evening plaid was invented (I think 19th century) when the small kilt overtook the great kilt (end of 18th?) as a measure of recreating the look of the great kilt after it fell out of favour, that could be easily detached or attached. In the plaids section of "So You Want to Wear a Kilt!) p. 81 mentions that while the original féile-breacan probably did not have a fringe on it, a MacIan illustration with a fringe at back most likely started the convention of having these belted plaids with fringes, which is a modern convention that stuck.

So, I was wondering, if any of you have had evening/belted plaids without a fringe; if that would look odd? I ask not necessarily for historical accuracy, but whether this fringe/no fringe could be relegated to taste? Also, it would be cheaper to have no fringe as there's no need to bother creating them.

Please let me know!

[Arnot]

Also, it would be cheaper to have no fringe as there's no need to bother creating them.

First, welcome from near Chorley, Lancashire.

I can say that the plaid shown in the link would be cheaper than a fly plaid with fringed and purled edges. I have made both and while there is more actual construction in the one in the photo, the other takes quite a bit longer to make. A fly plaid with just fringe would be cheaper, however.

[Tarheel]

Well met and welcome new friend. Good question you have in your opening. I don't have any experience with your case though. I do have opinions and some are logical (others not so much).

I think fringe, or lack of, on the fly plaid is a modification or fashion taste of a moment in time. Lately I've watched a trend by members here to avoid a fly plaid of any kind for good reason (mostly from the experiences of those who have worn them). Arguments for wearing the adornment are just a strong.

I hope your event is wonderful whatever choice you make. Glad to have you with us.