An Englishman living in France

[Kneelength]

I have been wearing skirts around home most evenings after return from work for several years.

A couple of years ago I started wearing it when we go out for a day’s sight seeing. Sometimes I will wear a formal top and other times with a simple white shirt to be more casual.

On the first occasion we were approached by an English man who commented on seeing a kilt in France.

On the second occasion both of us were aware of “head turning” as we walked by which let my wife to be somewhat nervous about me wearing it in public.

However I persisted and over the last year I have worn it for about 4 days and neither of us have been aware of any one staring. The only interaction was with one lady who enquired where I was from.

Looking forward to our next weekend away.

[couyalair]

I find the French to be very discreet, generally taking (or pretending to take) no notice of kilt or skirt. Most seem to know about Scotland and the traditions, and I've never met open disapproval. The only giggles or rude comments here come from less well-educated foreigners.

Martin (now in Grenoble -- where are you, Kneelength?)

[Kneelength]

Hi Martin

I live in Haut Soane - about 80km from Basel. Lovely place and as you say generally nice people. Not sure how they would react to a bloke in a skirt that was not of Scot origins.

[Milfmog]

Not sure how they would react to a bloke in a skirt that was not of Scot origins.

There's one surefire way to find out...

Have fun,


Ian.

[skirtingtoday]

As has been said many times here, you do not have to be Scottish or have even a drop of Scottish blood in you to wear a kilt or skirt.

Well done in going for it - and also well done in having a supportive wife with you!

Great news! Look forward to hearing of your next excursions.

[couyalair]

... generally nice people. Not sure how they would react to a bloke in a skirt that was not of Scot origins.

While your voice may betray you, your home address is not written on your face. I'm quite sure people will automatically assume you are Scottish and will approve the pride you take in your "origins" --- tartaned or not !

Martin

[skirtyscot]

I find the French to be very discreet, generally taking (or pretending to take) no notice of kilt or skirt. Most seem to know about Scotland and the traditions, and I've never met open disapproval. The only giggles or rude comments here come from less well-educated foreigners.

I'm just back from putting the discreetness of the French to the test for a fortnight. (Hi again Martin!) Most seemed not to care. One woman who I passed on entering a public toilet (the gents', though in her defence the ladies' was locked) waited outside with her friends until I came out, and when I had gone a few paces by them I clearly heard the words "Il porte une jupe!" followed by gales of laughter. Discreet they were not.

[couyalair]

If you'd been able to stay a day longer in the Vercors, Alistair, you'd have seen four other men in kilts (and several young ladies too). No-one seemed to object to our presence! Perhaps, if we had sported denim skirts, there would have been more raised eyebrows, but tartan surprises no-one over the age of 6.

On the other hand, my venerable age may dissuade the gales of laughter ... No point in laughing at a poor old codger with one foot in the grave, is there.

Martin