A recurring theme on the various kilt pages

[Jock Scot]

I'm most concerned with the look that has been achieved here. Does it ring true to our idea of Grand Highland Formal Wear, or is it, as Jock seams suggest, way over the top for today?

Clearly, I was striving for something at least that is dignified with a measure of grace.

I am not sure that is exactly what I said, that your attire was over the top just for today. To be clear it is! What I meant to say was that your attire in the picture was over the top for a Haggis address at any time.

Your attire in the picture is entirely suitable for a formal of formal(white tie) event, rare though they are, even today. Without the bonnet and perhaps the shoulder plaid. Basically you are aiming too high.

In my youth Burns night was just a gathering in the local pub, just an excuse for a meet up really, and the attire was totally informal with very few kilts in sight. It is only in recent times that a Burns night has turned itself into a formal(black tie) event. To turn a haggis event into a "white tie" event is entirely over the top.

Most, if not all, formal Burns nights would have the kilted gentlemen clad in solid coloured hose, plain well polished black shoes-----maybe those "dreadful"(i have got to say that! ) ghillie brogues----- garter ties with hose tops folded over the ties, a Black barathea silver buttoned argyll(BBSBA) and waistcoat, or more usually, a black barathea PC, black waistcoat white shirt with black bow tie, and of course the kilt. NO bonnet or shoulder plaid.

Can you see/imagine the difference between what I have described and what you are wearing?