Crail vs. Argyle

[Frank McGrath]

I ordered an Argyle from Rocky and can't wait to get it. I plan on wearing it to Easter service if it is here by then. When I saw it in the shop, I knew right then and there that the Argyle was the style I wanted. My only worry now is what shirt to wear .......

[beloitpiper]

Among my jackets (to illustrate how the styles can be mixed): are a district tweed with Braemar sleeves (3 horn instead of silver buttons) and mess closure (chained button), a solid purplish heather tweed with Argyle cuffs and silver buttons; and a close fitting and darted heavy black barathea crail (plain sleeves). What's dressier?

I think the crail. Its not the cuffs but the material and cut.

Of course theres exceptions, but I was trying to be helpful to Jamie by talking about off-the-rack jackets. So again, by going by the basic structure of the jacket, I think crails are best suited for day wear.

[SFCRick]

Thanks for the info Matt

[James MacMillan]

Granted - The biggest difference between the styles is the cuff, but don't forget variations in the collar.

[Chef]

Is there an overwhelming preference for one vs. the other for semi formal dress? I think I would prefer a Crail jacket, but I don't want to engage in a fashion no no.

If you would prefer a Crail then by all means get a Crail. It can be argued that the gauntlet cuffs are dressier. (one reason why they are found on a regulation doublet which is considered by many to be the dressiest jacket) That said if you are getting a jacket that will serve several uses (i.e. dressy day wear to black tie) then get the one you like. You won't be considered incorrect.

I would suggest you get a matching waistcoat as this will make the outfit a bit dressier when you need it to be. As far as colour, if you want to use it for a black tie affair get the jacket in black. If you don't then a dark grey would be quite nice.

Granted - The biggest difference between the styles is the cuff, but don't forget variations in the collar.

James, I think the variations in the collar are usually slight and they depend on the maker. The Crail/Braemar/Argyle isn't defined by the collar. The only jacket I know of that is known for a distinct collar is the Brian Boru, which has the shawl collar.

[Jock Scot]

Granted - The biggest difference between the styles is the cuff, but don't forget variations in the collar.

Good lord James, is there a difference in collar style between the Crail and Argyll?In all my years I have never noticed!Are you sure?

[James MacMillan]

Good lord James, is there a difference in collar style between the Crail and Argyll?In all my years I have never noticed!Are you sure?

Heck no, I'm not sure. I just know that my jackets also show slight differences in the collar. But it probably isn't a defining factor. Also, I've seen combinations and mix & match features on many a jacket. What one tailor may call jones, another may call smith - for the same exact cut. I do know that my tailor has names for several variations of collars, not just "regular" and "shaw."

To me - The only real thing that makes a kilt jacket a "kilt" jacket is the overal length. Kilt jackets are shorter than regular pants jackets. Cuff, pocket, epaulette etc features are all secondary.

-or, at least that's how it seems to me.

[Chef]

Heck no, I'm not sure. I just know that my jackets also show slight differences in the collar.

I have those subtle differences in jackets as well. Two supposedly identical jackets (both Argyles), both have what is considered a notch collar, but the collars are slightly different. I think that is the kind of difference that depends on who makes the jacket rather than whether it is an Argyle, Crail or Braemar.

[Jock Scot]

Heck no, I'm not sure. I just know that my jackets also show slight differences in the collar. But it probably isn't a defining factor. Also, I've seen combinations and mix & match features on many a jacket. What one tailor may call jones, another may call smith - for the same exact cut. I do know that my tailor has names for several variations of collars, not just "regular" and "shaw."

To me - The only real thing that makes a kilt jacket a "kilt" jacket is the overal length. Kilt jackets are shorter than regular pants jackets. Cuff, pocket, epaulette etc features are all secondary.

-or, at least that's how it seems to me.

Phew!That's good,I thought for a moment that "old" Jock had missed something important!

[slohairt]

I have always thought the cuffs of the Braemar and Argyle jacket with fancy pocket flaps make it a bit more dressier than the plain-cuffed and unadorned-pocket-flap crail jacket. But that is just in my head, feel free to choose whatever works best with you.

Both of my Crail jackets have scalloped pocket flaps with three buttons, just like a Braemar or Argyle. In fact, the only difference between my Argyle and Crails are the cuffs. I guess it depends on who makes the jackets.