Montrose Jacket Question

[crumbaughs]

Since the Prince Charlie coatee and the Montrose shell jacket were introduced in the 20th century, at the time which Highland outfitters/tailors were producing catalogues, we can see how the firms which made them presented them to the public.

Over and over it was stressed that the Prince Charlie was suited for young slim fashionable men, and the Doublet was recommended for mature gents.

With the Montrose it's interesting that it's initially shown as a youth's costume, and the catalogues generally have it modelled on what appear to be teenagers or perhaps men in their early 20's.

These attitudes have gone by the wayside and at events I usually see Prince Charlies worn by older (and often rotund) gents. I hardly see the Montrose at all these days, though it was very popular in the 1940s and 1950s.

Being a large person myself, I can say that the most flattering cut for me is the Argyll, especially when buttoned and no bulky waistbelt or waistcoat worn under it.

I confess I am more comfortable with the Argyle than any (even the Crail). And while I admire the military dublet, I feel it would look silly on me (and we do not want to shame the kilt). I worry that the Sheriffmuir, with a pyramidal gap revealing my waistcoat, might not be flattering either. I will likely agonize over this through the summer before embarking on this next sartorial adventure. Thank you for your input!

[crumbaughs]

To be honest, in a fit of uncharacteristic vanity, I had hoped to wear the Montrose, with jabot and wrist flourishes, appropriate bonnet, plaid, and polished basket hilt for a large painted portrait to be hung surreptitiously above my stairs and only visible to those descending. And after this to be worn to the occasional Burns Supper with swagger and dash ... at least that is how it appeared in my imagination.

I am being swayed by your counsel friends (and my exceedingly slow progress in slimming down - weight loss my cardiologist and primary care physician advise and applaud as well). Your input is much appreciated.

- Steve

[Father Bill]

Something like this? (I've never had occasion to wear it anywhere except the deck. Rather overdone really, just for fun.)