I think Red Sea Rig mostly works for those who don't need it- and, of course, if you are on the Red Sea.

I understand the origins of Red Sea Rig and I think it makes sense in certain environs, much as I understand when a host removes his jacket at a hot party, but I am afraid Red Sea Rig in the kilt mostly comes down to a black tie. And that is a lot of distinction to hang on a narrow strip of fabric.

I like to wear a linen jacket with my kilt in hot weather, to cut down a little on the suffering. I am talking about SC weather, where it has already gone to the 90s this year and will stay that way, with accompanying humidity until sometime in September. Part of life here is taking more showers and sweating through a lot of shirt linen. Sometimes you have to suffer a little for style.

The problem is, waiters in black tie with no jackets look like waiters. Adding a dirk belt doesn't make them look like officers. In most situations where guests and staff are all in black tie, you can tell the difference, even if a guest has removed his jacket. But so much of this forum is devoted to helping people who don't yet have that certain "look" that helps distinguish the two groups. If your full dress clothes came from a business that has "wearhouse" in its name, or your shirt is easy care, just be prepared to help clear the tables.