Black tie event.....help?

[Jock Scot]

For what it's worth, in Scotland all of my high church Anglican buddies tend to wear "civvies" to most events, and only wear clericals to civic events-- that being the case I'd suggest that you go with the black Argyll jacket, three button waistcoat, dress shirt and black bow tie. I think the flashes in the appropriate liturgical colour is a brilliant conceit, and I'd endorse it 100%! (I have a friend who is a retired Admiral who always wears one red and one green flash...). Incidentally, they all wear their family tartan and matching argyle hose.

Sage advice there, although you could consider solid colour hose(not white) as an option.

[fluter]

I like the idea of diced or tartan hose to complement the kilt. Blue and white is a neglected combination for dicing, but that might be a bit too much blue. If solid color hose, then I'd say not blue or black (or white--unless they are hand-knitted by a close relative).

The jabot idea is intriguing, and would work with your existing 5-button waistcoat. One of STM's hand-knitted jabots from a historical lace pattern would be an interesting touch. They are made by Mrs. Matt.

I think bow-tie looks good with a 3-button, PC style waistcoat.

This would be a good opportunity to add one accessory, carefully chosen and possibly made to order, that will complement your Argyll and give you pleasure for many many days to come: such as a jabot, some nice custom hose, or one of the clerical waistcoats that have been suggested, among other possibilities.

[MacRobert's Reply]

What you already have Vicar sounds entirely appropriate. Wear it with a clerical collar if you are attending as a chaplain or will be contributing to the event as a clergyman (eg saying the grace or giving a benediction). If you do not have a specifically clerical role at the event, replace the clerical collar and shirt with a white dress shirt and black bow tie.

A jabot or white cravat is also ideal but best worn with a doublet. I favor the Sheriffmuir which also works well with a clerical collar.

I am a Scottish Episcopalian priest but this should work for clergy of most denominations.

PS Garters according to the season is a novel idea but a bit subtle for their significance to be recognised by others.