Generally speaking, in the United States, the wearing of medals with civilian attire follows the same guidelines as those used in the United Kingdom. The definitive guide to the wearing of medals with civilian attire was written by Stephen Connelly, in 1986, when he was with Spink & Sons, Ltd. Mr. Connelly is now a director of Cleve & Co. Ltd, the premier supplier of orders, medals, and decorations in the United Kingdom.

Referring to both white tie and black tie occasions in civilian attire, Mr. Connelly has this to say:

"Miniature badges of all Orders, Decorations, and Medals are worn from a medal bar on the left lapel."

This is the way that miniature medals are worn with Highland attire, as well as with a tuxedo or white tie and tails. It doesn't matter if you are in Dublin, Ireland, or Detroit, Michigan, that's how it's done-- it's called "correct form".

Now, for those of you about to wrap yourself in red, white and blue bunting and shout "I don't care, I'm and American and I'll do what I please," let me point out two things:

1) The US military practice of wearing medals was adopted by the United States, virtually intact, from the British at the turn of the 20th century.

2) Of course, you may do as you wish but, by those who know better, you will be regarded as ignorant of "correct form".