Sd-sd?

**Laird_M** · 25th September 12, 04:59 AM

Ok folks, need to pick the brains of the aficionados.

Broadly speaking, highland dress is classified as Daywear – informal, Semi-dress – kilt and vest/waistcoat or jacket, and Dress – BPC, Sheriffmuir, etc., likewise, matching sporran styles: – Daywear – plain leather, Semi-dress – hide faced, and the fluffy dice Full Dress.

I’ve seen the rather rustic antler handled Daywear sgian dubh, and the ornate stone topped Dress sgians, but is there such a thing as a Semi-dress sgian? If so, what distinguishes it from the other two styles?

**Tobus** · 25th September 12, 05:16 AM

I'm sure there are those who can give far more knowledgeable advice than me, but I would think that what you're looking for is just a wood-handle sgian dubh (usually carved in an intricate design, but without stones or other adornment). It can be with or without a metal cap on the end.

**MacMillans son** · 25th September 12, 06:39 AM

Well Laird, I learned it (here on xmarks) a bit different. As I understand it, there is daywear, and evening wear....period. With evening wear being divided into black tie (tux level) and white tie (formal). The term "semi dress" is one I have only heard applied to a sporrans style that has both fur and leather on the front, but I don't believe that is an acknowledged term, in any traditional sense, in the Highlands. Certainly not one applied or recognized there as a level/style of attire.

Regarding sgian dubhs, I don't think there is a special group known as semi dress. Like Tobus mentioned, if you like something less rustic than antler, there are many nice wood handled ones without the blingy metal and stone bits on them. I like Comrie Crafts for having a good selection for the price

Regards,
Brooke