Over doing it

[CMcG]

There's doublets and then there's doublets.

Your Balmoral, Nathan, is of the less ostentatious variety and effectively straddles different levels of formality. It is good ol' barathea, instead of velvet or silk; has a solid, subdued colour; and doesn't have lace cuffs sewn permanently into it, all of which combine to give you more wiggle room to dress it up or down for the event.

Has the Highland outfitter you wrote about actually seen your doublet? Speaking of Highland outfitters, have you read what Highland Clans has to say about the Balmoral? They are one of the few -- if not the only -- people who sell this style of doublet:

"The Balmoral Kilt Doublet is suitable for formal evening events, both black tie and white tie. It is traditionally made from Velvet, but is now also made in Barathea Wool.

...It is usually worn with a belt, and black bow tie (as shown but these items are not included).



...It can be worn less formally unbuttoned - in this case the belt would be worn round the kilt (under the jacket)."*

* my bold

Maybe give that a try and see how you like the look.