"Modern" kilts are modern because they are an invention of the Victorian era British. Before the ban after Culloden, the kilts, i.e. the authentic kilts, were what we would call "great" kilts today and served many practical purposes unlike the modern kilt which is a shamefu; reflection of what was once a practical piece of clothing, not a short silly looking dress. It was a heavy wool that could keep you warm in harsh conditions, and long enough to either use as a poncho or a sleeping bag.