Quote Originally Posted by BMackay
Todd, thanks again for your insight and thoughtful commentary. I have to agree that this is (for me) a once in a lifetime opportunity and am looking forward to a great time. Based on everyone’s input, I am going to go with a PC rental unless the gods smile on me and can justify a PC purchase to my wife :-) (If Ham or one of our Scotland based members can recommend a reputable kilt hire company in the city I would be most appreciative).
Brian, with regard to the Kilt Hire company, Geoffrey (Tailor) Ltd., on The Royal Mile, Edinburgh will take some beating. You can call them TOLL FREE from the USA on 1-800-566-1467 (but remember to allow for the time difference!!), or E-mail them at: enquiries@geoffreykilts.co.uk

I am afraid that opinions of what constitutes 'Formal' appear to differ between the USA and the UK!! The thought of tartan or diced hose, whether with plain or crenellated tops at a black tie event, fills me with fear! Over here, these would be worn nowadays only at white tie events, and with a fly plaid. I have assumed, perhaps incorrectly, that this event is to be a black tie function!

These colourful hose are also expensive to buy and many Hire companies do not hire out hose (or shirts) but will sell them to you, given time to have them manufactured. The crenellated style is seldom worn nowadays, in fact I can think of only one Highland Dress Outfitter in Scotland from whom they might be ordered - they would not be available from stock, nor would most tartan hose. Geoffrey (Tailor)'s current price list shows tartan and diced hose at prices from £108 to £238 per pair, according to size and quality, and a delivery time of three months from ordering!! These prices are pretty much standard, as is the delivery time, whichever supplier you use. You have been warned!

Also, with regard to shirts. Here, no matter whether you opt for the Prince Charlie or a black barathea Argyll (or Crail jacket), only white shirts should be worn. Coloured shirts are not worn formally and are considered to be in poor taste, except possibly with a toning velvet Dinner Jacket (or Tux), and never with the kilt!

I hope this has helped rather than confused you!