I agree that claret (dark red) would likely be smashing, especially for more upscale outings. I would (personally) steer clear of tartan red (bright red), but our skin tones are diferent.

Lovat green would work in a variety of situations I think, but it also partly depends on your wardrobe. As an American you will be off to a good start if you let go of the "matchy-match" disease and start out by upping your game to 'contrast and coordinate'.


I would seriously consider Ancient or Saint Andrew's blue, and possibly bottle green as well. Of these four, dark red, lovat green, light blue and dark green, not every color will work with every sweater or tie in your closet, but likely one of them will.

I will admit Lovat Green is the most versatile not white color I know of. Dress tartans with lots of white in them and MacLeod of Lewis with all the yellow excepted, I think Lovat Green hose can go with lots and lots of looks above very casual but below black tie. Bright enough to contribute, but not so bright as to be flambouyant. Just M2c.