Over doing it

[Spartan Tartan]

There is clearly a difference (I finally went and looked at the pictures from previous years) between what is expected of the men and the women at this event. Without a doubt, the men are dressed in black tie and for some reason the women are almost casual in some cases, but certainly not "black tie" level.

That being the case, I would not consider what the ladies will be wearing--they already "do not agree" with the men. This does pose a challenge to navigate the proper outfit...perhaps.

When I compare your own picture, Nathan, of you wearing the doublet with a black bow tie, I see it as more of a variation to the PC instead of a whole classification of difference. I would agree anything with lace might be over the top, but in this case, I still believe the doublet is appropriate. In fact, it might be greatly appreciated by several of the men to see something different. Most definitely it is likely to spark some excellent conversation.

I can not help but think that the gentleman advising you is INVESTED in your outfit (to some extent). If he is a sales person that rents a lot of gear, he wants everyone to look the same so he can rent them their outfits with what he has in stock! Perhaps he sees your wearing something different it as a threat to his business? I know that sounds a tad absurd, but I'm just trying to understand why someone would discourage an otherwise appropriate jacket to the event.

I DO think that a black argyle with tartan waistcoat would be FANTASTIC for this event. Far more conservative than the doublet (maybe) and closer in keeping with what appears to be the trend at this event, but personalized enough to avoid the cookie cutter look.

Whatever you decide, I am sure you will look great. I will be watching this thread to see what you ultimately decide and enjoy the discussion as well.

[TheOfficialBren]

I have to agree with Simon, actually. When I think of doublets I think very high brow. Never mind the style of doublet. It is certainly a step up no matter how you slice it.

Yours is a very nice doublet but were it me I would wear my Prince Charlie. YMMV.

[Grizzly]

I have to agree with Simon, actually. When I think of doublets I think very high brow. Never mind the style of doublet. It is certainly a step up no matter how you slice it.

Yours is a very nice doublet but were it me I would wear my Prince Charlie. YMMV.

Bren I am out of Ayes mate so its a plus one from me.

[CMcG]

...

I DO think that a black argyle with tartan waistcoat would be FANTASTIC for this event. Far more conservative than the doublet (maybe) and closer in keeping with what appears to be the trend at this event, but personalized enough to avoid the cookie cutter look.

...

This is a good point. Could this be the ideal time to bust out the black Argyll? If a doublet might be a wee bit too much (in some people's eyes) and the PC is too standard...

[Grizzly]

Could'nt agree more Colin, I also think that Spartan Tartans suggestion of a tartan waistcoat (bias cut) is a great idea. It would certainly stand out more and be more eye catching.

[Nathan]

Could'nt agree more Colin, I also think that Spartan Tartans suggestion of a tartan waistcoat (bias cut) is a great idea. It would certainly stand out more and be more eye catching.

A bias cut three button tartan waistcoat is certainly on my wish list but I won't be getting one before the dinner.
Therefore, if I go with the Argyll, I would either wear the 3 button PC waistcoat, the 5 button black one it came with or this one:





The look would be pretty much be the Clanranald answer to this outfit of Colin's, minus the gorgeous sporran molach.



Some insist that for black tie, a tartan waistcoat should be bias cut and three button but I admit to thinking Colin looks pretty sharp in this pic. Another option in the mix?

Jock: You spoke in general terms, but am I correct in inferring that your vote is for the Prince Charlie?

[Jock Scot]

Nathan.

Actually in this instance, I would go with the black barathea silver buttoned argyll (BBSBA) if you have one and three buttoned waistcoat, but the Prince Charlie comes a close second. Both with turn down shirt collars, please. Those wing collared things make one look like a Dickensian clerk!

[Father Bill]

Aye. Hate the stand-up collars.

[Nathan]

Nathan.

Actually in this instance, I would go with the black barathea silver buttoned argyll (BBSBA) if you have one and three buttoned waistcoat, but the Prince Charlie comes a close second. Both with turn down shirt collars, please. Those wing collared things make one look like a Dickensian clerk!

Interesting. I have both but why choose the BBSBA over the Charlie? Do you just find the PC too "kilt hire attire" or is this a question of appropriate formality? Would you ever personally wear a PC?

[Jock Scot]

Interesting. I have both but why choose the BBSBA over the Charlie? Do you just find the PC too "kilt hire attire" or is this a question of appropriate formality? Would you ever personally wear a PC?

I actually see nothing wrong with a properly fitted PC and have worn one for years. I suppose in the days when I regularly attended black and white tie events then my green velvet sherriffmuir was my do-it-all choice though. These days when I dress for dinner,-------- Yes! We still do that at least once a week------then I wear a BBSBA. I am toying with the idea of getting a dark green velvet and low cut waist coat, argyll made, but I am not too sure that I will survive long enough to get my monies worth out of it!

Sorry, I digress! To answer your question, I think the BBSBA covers the lower end of the black tie scale of events, perfectly. As I have said earlier, it is really very easy to end up looking like a clown if you don't judge your kilt black tie attire and fail to match it to the event
correctly. A PC however and without too much bling, will get you by at ANY black tie event that you can conjure up, though.