Sources for Tartan Trews or Trousers

**Livonian** · 21st November 14, 11:33 AM

Seeing as it's getting a bit cold for my SWK Heavyweight (and I cannot even remotely afford a tank in the forseeable future), I was considering the option of tartan trousers. That said, I'm at a loss as to where I might find such a beast. Furthermore, I do carry something of a paunch, resulting in a 45.5-inch waist (for reference, I have a 48-inch chest, and 20-inch shoulders)... this probably rules out the usual slim-fitted fishtail trews. I've seen "Argyll trews", which seem to be trousers with a taller waistband and loops for a kilt belt, and tartan trousers, which are simply standard trousers in a tartan fabric. The latter two also seem to cost less than the former from most vendors.

Thus, I have two questions to pose for the Rabble:

1. Where might I source a pair of tartan trousers or "Argyll trews" for a reasonable price?
2. Which cut should I get to avoid looking like an eejit?

Thanks,
Livonian

**MacRobert's Reply** · 21st November 14, 02:55 PM

It would be helpful if you could tell us what sot of events you would wear them at and what cut of jacket you would wear with them. High cut trewes are usually for formal events with short kilt jackets. Tartan trousers work better with Anglo-Saxon jackets or more casual wear. There are many tailors in my part of the world who would make you a pair but they are expensive.

**Mike S** · 21st November 14, 03:26 PM

As one fatso-ish fellow to another, it might not be the best idea for you to choose Trews. That is one garment that DEFINITELY favors the slim of build.

**Livonian** · 21st November 14, 03:46 PM

I'd likely wear them in lieu of a kilt... which I wear daily except to work and church. I'm getting them not only as a more weather-friendly option, but as a cost-saving one: even expensive tartan trousers/trews are less expensive than most kilts.

Regarding the cut and fatness, I have a pair of similarly cut trousers which are, in fact, the only trousers that conceal my midsection very well at all. It seems that the combination of the high waist and the even higher back both cover my paunch and keep my shirt neatly tucked, preventing muffin top. The somewhat trim fit (more so than most RTW trousers) also helps. On an aside, I always wear my trousers to navel height at the absolute minimum... breaks up the bulk better than most modern-cut trousers, the low cut of which functions like an underline in text, drawing more attention to that area.

Am I underestimating how closely-cut trews are made?

UPDATE: Looked into how trews are patterned... And to think I thought skinny jeans were "closely-fitted". Is there any sort of hybrid available, combining the high waist of trews with the forgiving cut of tartan trousers?

**KiltFitz** · 21st November 14, 06:31 PM

Argyll trews or trousers are probably your best bet. Fishtail trews or military trews are more frequently worn with coatees or doublets whereas I see argyll trews worn with argyll jacket and belt or even with a five button waistcoat. Done like this, the waistband becomes less of an issue. Ask the maker if they can make the waistband a little higher, that shouldn't cause any problems. I only know about Scottish supplier but if you are going to order from here, I am happy to give you a few recommendations. Best to PM me for that.

If you are purchasing mail-order, you will find argyll trousers more amenable to alteration by a local tailor or seamstress too because they have a seam. The best piece of advice I can give you is to get someone with a bit of experience in menswear to take your measurements. An inch or two off because you were stooping or holding your breath or a measuremant taken too low down can make a big difference to what you get back at the end.

**Mike S** · 21st November 14, 07:01 PM

Originally Posted by Livonian

Am I underestimating how closely-cut trews are made?

When properly tailored, they are pretty darn tight:

**Livonian** · 21st November 14, 07:15 PM

Looks like I'm out of luck... not a tailor within reasonable distance who could make the hybrid "trewser" that I'd be looking for. I may need to get handy with a needle and thread.