Clan tartan ties, unforgivable sin?

[Graeme H]

Ultimately this argument comes down to Fashion vs Style. Dollander rightly pointed out that fashion is subjective, although I don't believe all fashion to be art; in my mind art should be conscious and too many fashion designers these days simply want to make a statement and have no knowledge of the history or etiquette involved in the attire they are designing. They thoughtlessly and recklessly design based on aesthetic only. There's a reason why tailors on Savile Row have such a sterling reputation while those in the know turn their nose up at many high fashion brands (rightly so, buying something based on exclusivity is the bane of style). So fashion is subjective, yes... But STYLE on the other hand, is timeless.

Given my vocation it may be a little biased, but all you need to do is look to the bespoke community to see that style doesn't change, only fashion. While there is a trend for suits to get skinnier and skinnier, in the bespoke world you will still see pleated trousers, wide lapels and turnups. A tailor fits the individual, where fashion fits the moment. And anyone is free to express themselves with whatever style of suit they wish to wear, as long as it fits them properly. It's needless details thrown in simply to draw attention that make me cringe. There's a lot to be said for subtlety. For me at least, if a suit is well fitted and well conceived then it sings. It's amazing how much love a simple grey suit can get online if it has strong, clean lines.

Regarding Mr Connery's outfit, from a style point of view (what I would refer to as sartorial etiquette), the real faux pas is that a tie is being worn with what is essentially evening wear. It would possibly be considered acceptable (although not correct) if it was worn with a higher fastening waistcoat to keep the tie in check. However a bow tie is really the only thing that should be worn with a Charlie, tartan or not.

I typically recommend a tartan tie or bow tie as a way of expressing oneself when NOT wearing a kilt, with a black dinner jacket for example. However I see nothing wrong with wearing one with a kilt should someone wish to, as long as sartorial etiquette is observed. The saving grace to Mr Connery's outfit is that it appears that his tie has been cut from the same heavy twill cloth as his kilt, so they match perfectly. This does make tying the tie a little harder, but perhaps this is the way to go should someone wish to double up on their tartan! A similar outfit with a tweed jacket and waistcoat would be perfectly acceptable, especially at a wedding or similar event where the tartan is a centre point or theme.

Fashion is subjective, Style is timeless.