what formal events do you attend, and...

[Rex_Tremende]

Outside of choral events, it would be charity fundraisers, about one every year or two, and sometimes a new year's eve event, which usually isn't so much as black tie, but tuxedo and whatever garish tie and vest kit you fancy at the prom shop.

Regards,
Rex.

[Scotus]

Alan, you need to hang with less "rabble" and more "society" then.

Seriously, if you really want to be invited to such events, you have to know or belong to groups that hold these events regularly; for example, hereditary societies, St. Andrews Societies, etc. I know you didn't say you "wanted" to go to such events, but it would save you having to get rid of your nice things. Just a thought.

[BEEDEE]

Burns night, St Andrews, two Kirkin's and the Marine Ball tonight!

Brian

[KFCarter]

I run a theatre and am heavily involved in the local non-profit community, so I attend openings, fund-raisers and galas, etc. I got tired of the rented tux deal and am very glad I went the kilt / PC route. My PC rig was the first thing I invested in and it was only afterwards that I realized (with the help of this forum!) that with the right jackets and accessories, the kilt could become an option for daytime business wear and even casual events other than games. So you might say the formal option was my gateway.

[davedove]

I can't say I've ever been to a black tie event. I always go black tie for formal nights on cruises, just because I like to do it and I think it looks nice. I also put on the outfit for the New Year's Eve party at the dance studio, but it certainly wasn't required.

Other than that, I wore a tux for my cousin's wedding, where I was a groomsman, and that was a rental.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

SHOCK!! HORROR!! I only wear Highland attire in Scotland, or to Scottish events. To my mind attending a black tie dinner in Richmond (or anywhere else outside of Scotland) in a kilt looks as out of place as a beer bottle on a banqueting table. That said, I am in Highland black tie about four times a year, and in Highland attire, white tie, once a year.

I usually attend another four black tie functions and two white tie functions each year in addition to the Scottish events so I have found that owning my formal clothes is, in the long run, cheaper than renting. (4 rentals = 1 purchase)

[Lyle1]

I attend a number of black tie events, mostly dances or benefits. In fact, since I retired last year, I've worn my tuxedos much more frequently than my closet full of suites. I think some of the suites are going to charity, and a sport coat or two might be cut down to wear with a kilt (which I hope to order next week). I'm not sure I will bother buying a formal jacket to wear with my kilt, but if I had one I would keep it. For me, once a year is enough reason to keep a piece of clothing IF I LIKE IT. However, this advice id from a man who still has almost 200 neckties that are collecting dust.

[McFarkus]

I avoid formal events. I went to two Burns night events last year both of which were not formal. I don't go to the same event at the Illinois St. Andrew's Society because it IS formal.

[timseh]

Very rarely for me with the exception of the annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball which is black tie, Dress Blues with Medals and Honors or Service Dress Alpha for those active Marines not issued Dress Blues. Senior officers usually attend in Mess Dress.

This year should be interesting as I'm attending in Full Highland attire including my Leatherneck Kilt and PC. The guest of honor this year is the Commanding General, 4th Marine Division. I'm guessing I'll be the only one kilted there. I'll be interested in the general's reaction, especially since I'm to be called before the ball to be recognized for work I've done with the Marine Corps League.

[macwilkin]

I avoid formal events. I went to two Burns night events last year both of which were not formal. I don't go to the same event at the Illinois St. Andrew's Society because it IS formal.

from what I've heard, you're missing a great time then. A friend of mine was the featured entertainment at that event several years ago, and he said it was a lot of fun.

I hate to say it, but threads like this one always make me cringe a bit, because they always seem to bring out the "I hate/don't do/etc. formal attire or events" comments. Horses for courses, but there are some of us here who enjoy said events and getting dressed up for such an occasion.

T.