One month or so ago I created a thread to discuss my thoughts on attending a formal wedding in Newport R.I. The ceremony was at 2:00 PM (I don't have the photos of that yet). The reception was at Rosecliff Mansion that night and was black tie. After much deliberation this is the attire that I chose. I don't own a P.C. so I went with my black Argyle. In a moment of age memory loss I forgot to pack my white shirts so had to buy one at Banana Republic across from the hotel. Black Tie of course. The kilt is Strathmore Modern Buchanan made by Ann Stewart 40 years ago and looks as good today as then despite quite a bit of wearing. The hose is a black piper hose with a 'popcorn' weave at the top. My shoes (not visible) were ghillie brogues with shortened laces (not crossed at the ankle etc). What caused most of the debate was my deciding on the sporran. I ended up wearing the Stingray made for me by Wyvern which is stunning to see up close. A friend (one of the rabble) did lend me an angora wool sporran with cantle that he had made for himself for his wedding which I attended. But upon putting it on I just felt it too heavy for dancing etc. I had worn the stingray to the wedding that afternoon less formally and really liked the look so I stuck with it.
There were no other kilts present although a MacGregor who had been born at Troon did talk with me quite a bit. He had wanted to wear his kilt with a P.C. but his wife protested. Much to his regret. I was greeted warmly by the bride and her parents (good friends of ours) all other guests were very complementary. Wearing the kilt to an event like this is an incredible conversation starter and if my wife had any regrets it was from all the attention I was getting from the ladies. But as you can see from the photo my best accessory is my bride of 32 years. So in keeping with the motto "it didn't happen unless there are photos" this is the two of us on the grand staircase at Rosecliff Mansion.
I almost forgot. The plaid is a half plaid (1/2 yard wide of the Strathmore) so lighter than a traditional plaid. The brooch is a Baroque Lion Plaid Brooch from USA kilts.
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