Quote Originally Posted by revdpatience View Post
I found myself in a similar situation, having been measured for and ordered a Lovat green tweed Argyll jacket and waistcoat from a smaller shop in Irvine, California while I was there on a business trip last year. It seriously took seven months from the day I ordered it in October until it finally arrived in May.

Because I have the opportunity (and obligation) to attend several black tie/kilted events each year, I got frustrated that I didn't have the kilt jacket for the November formal event, then for the Christmas party, then for New Year's Eve, then for Burns night ... you get the picture.

So I went ahead in March and ordered an ex-hire black Barathea silver-button Argyll (BBSBA) jacket and waistcoat from J. Higgins. Seriously, I think I had the jacket in three or four days! It was certainly affordable (compared to the "custom" lovat tweed) and the service can't be beat.

So I was properly attired for the March formal event, at least, and the May formal event. The tweed jacket and waistcoat arrived while I was out of town for the May event.

And, to give the original shop due credit, they sent me a pair of the kilt hose I prefer as a thank you for my patience -- and the tweed Argyll jacket fits like a dream. I wore it to the opening ceremonies of the Wisconsin Highland Games this past weekend.



So I guess your patience is being tested a little more severely than mine was, but I'd offer an option for you to consider, which is to check out ex-hire jackets in the meantime.
I have two kilt jackets, tailored from old Harris Tweed regular jackets. They do fine, but do not have matching vests. Plus, they fit my "less money is better" philosophy.

I'll be retiring in three months and wanted to get this new informal jacket before my salary is cut, but that doesn't look possible. In fact, this lady I'm dealing with has my good tank, which needs another strap (long story) and needs to be taken in.

I have all the black tie stuff. As a member and long time officer (Secretary) of the St. Andrews Society of Albany (NY), we have at least three formal occasions each year - Burns Nicht, St. Andrews Nicht and the Past Presidents dinner.

My other kilt jackets are a brown tweed and a gray one. They look and wear fine, but I would dearly like a matching jacket and waistcoat such as you display. I'll keep after it somehow I guess.

Here's my oldest son and I before a Clan Dinner, night before the local highland games...

Frank