perceptions of formal attire

[macwilkin]

"But you are heading into territory without precedent here."

Panache,
I am OK with that.

I am as far as I know, the only kiltie in Federal Way, but in no way the only guy in the greater Seattle/Tacoma area...which would make it really easy to bend hte fashion rules a bit. I am actually hoping to attend an All Clan's banquet that is going to be held in my town, and I am not sure how formal it is supposed to be... being a Scottish related function, I would naturally go kilted, but without the funds or time to acquire more accessories (notably black ones), I will be stuck with the brown, provided it ships out soon (items are still on back order... real downside of being built large), and I could theoretically get a set of brown brogues in time (I get paid at the end of the month again, and I get paid before the function... so I think 2 weeks is enough time for a pair of shoes to get mailed to me). I have never been to a formal function, so part of my questions stem from that...
If I showed up in what is typically considered daywear, but had a very clean and confident presentation... would anyone care or even notice?

A lot of depends on the function and the group hosting it. The invitation or literature about the function should state "formal/black tie" on it to let folks know what the level of dress exactly is. And remember, the general public may not know the precise details of what constitutes formal, semi-formal, etc. Highland dress, but at a Burns Supper, Clan function, etc. you can bet there will be someone who does.

Now, I know that not every one at our Scottish society's Burns Supper wears black tie -- some wear white tie, others day wear, still others come in a suit. We certainly would not turn someone away or be rude to them, especially if day wear was all they had and were new to wearing a kilt. Contrary to what some think, the majority of traditionalists, myself included, are not going to give someone a "dressing down" for their attire. We had to start somewhere as well. I have standards I follow for Highland attire, but I do not expect others to, but if they ask me my opinon and advice, I will offer it, and only then.

I'd leave the Jacobite shirt at home, though, and go with a shirt and tie. Same wi' the military tunic -- unless you're a reenactor/living historian potraying a certain regiment and time period, mixing military kit and civlian "mufti" just looks -- well, odd, and might run the risk of offending someone, as many Scottish societies have expat members who may have served in the British Army.

So, bottom line (for me): stick with brown leathers for day wear, or wear black with formal attire.

Regards,

Todd