Ghillie brogues and PC outfit

[Bidule]

Although the subject was probably treated very often, I would like to know the opinion of the rabble on the wearing of classical (piper!) ghillie brogues with a Prince Charlie outfit. I think buckle brogues would match much better but they seems me a little too sophisticated and, by the way, are difficult too find (Even on the Web). What about simple classical black shoes, like those ordinarly worn with a tuxedo? But this is obviously not very traditional... What do you think about it?

[artificer]

Although the subject was probably treated very often, I would like to know the opinion of the rabble on the wearing of classical (piper!) ghillie brogues with a Prince Charlie outfit. I think buckle brogues would match much better but they seems me a little too sophisticated and, by the way, are difficult too find (Even on the Web). What about simple classical black shoes, like those ordinarly worn with a tuxedo? But this is obviously not very traditional... What do you think about it?

If you do a quick search of the forum, you'll find that classic black dress shoes (with our without toe caps), highly polished, seem to be a favorite if buckle brogues are deemed too fancy or aren't to the wearer's liking.

ith:

[Grizzly]

In a formal setting I believe the order of preference depending on how formal the occaision is -
1, Buckle Brogues
2, Ghillie Brogues
3, Wingtip Brogues normal lace up
4, Half Brogues
5, Formal shoe such as an Oxford.

goes without saying that all should be nicely polished. Irrespective of the above, any classic polished shoe can be worn to great effect.
regards

[Phil]

They do say what goes around comes around. A few years ago ghillie brogues were the shoes of choice here but they are now, apparently, totally unacceptable wear. They are, in fact, a type of shoe that has been worn for many years -



as this illustration from a catalogue from the 1950's (and probably much older) shows with the gentleman on the left wearing them - without the long laces common nowadays.
It is true when people say that there is nothing new under the sun, just that peoples' fashions and prejudices change, something I have noticed very much on this forum. Just mention "white hose" to have the majority of contributors foaming at the mouth with righteous indignation that anyone should wear such abominations! And they say there are no KILT POLICE?

[azwildcat96]

My preference is not to wear (or ever own) ghillie brogues. I just don't care for the look of the criss-crossed laces up the leg. I prefer a well-polished black shoe (plain-toe, cap-toe, or wing tip) with a PC outfit.

[Tobus]

They do say what goes around comes around. A few years ago ghillie brogues were the shoes of choice here but they are now, apparently, totally unacceptable wear. They are, in fact, a type of shoe that has been worn for many years -

as this illustration from a catalogue from the 1950's (and probably much older) shows with the gentleman on the left wearing them - without the long laces common nowadays.

Maybe it's just my monitor, but those don't look like ghillie brogues to me. They just look like standard black dress shoes with no brogueing. (?) I can't see any detail that looks like lace-tongues.

It is true that for many years ghillie brogues were considered a formal shoe in some circles, but it seems to be the consensus amongst our Highland brethren that they have always been considered an outdoor shoe in their native land (and I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm mistaken on that point). Perhaps their use as a formal shoe was an attempt by some to use a distinctly Scottish shoe when dressing in Scottish regalia, just for the sake of being non-Saxon?

It seems that, from what I've read, the backlash against ghillie brogues seems to be more of a return to the original tradition where they are best suited for the outdoors.

[Phil]

Maybe it's just my monitor, but those don't look like ghillie brogues to me. They just look like standard black dress shoes with no brogueing. (?) I can't see any detail that looks like lace-tongues.

It is true that for many years ghillie brogues were considered a formal shoe in some circles, but it seems to be the consensus amongst our Highland brethren that they have always been considered an outdoor shoe in their native land (and I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm mistaken on that point). Perhaps their use as a formal shoe was an attempt by some to use a distinctly Scottish shoe when dressing in Scottish regalia, just for the sake of being non-Saxon?

It seems that, from what I've read, the backlash against ghillie brogues seems to be more of a return to the original tradition where they are best suited for the outdoors.

I must, of course, defer to all of my transatlantic fellow x-markers who are patently so much better versed in all matters kilt-related, having read many books on the subject and immersed themselves in the various opinions frequently expressed on this forum. I have long since learned to drink at the fount of all knowledge that is this forum. Peopled, as it is, overwhelmingly by non-Scots, there must be some good reason why their opinions on such matters deserve credence although the very possibility escapes me entirely.

I, in truth, am merely a born and bred Scottish individual who has only his own experience together with that of family, friends and other acquaintances to draw upon. Nothing of that, however, seems to be of any relevance in a discussion such as this.

Tobus, I must humbly apologise for the poor quality of the photograph which fails to show the detail of the original which you demand and you are, of course, perfectly correct to reprimand me for this in the brusque manner that you have chosen. You are, of course, at total liberty to wear your ghillie brogues in any manner and situation that you feel is appropriate and I must raise the matter with my ghillie when I am next fishing. I am sure he will be intrigued at the assertion that he should be wearing such footwear in the exercise of his duties although he need not look to me to furnish him with them, nor provide the regular replacements necessary as he stumbles across the river.

[artificer]

sigh.

I find it a touch troubling that, of late, we seem incapable of discussing something as basic as shoes without it devolving into a hissy-fit.

[Phil]

sigh.

I find it a touch troubling that we seem incapable of discussing something as basic as shoes without it devolving into a hissy-fit.

You've noticed it too. Just mention "buckle brogues", "mary janes", "white hose" or PC's before the sun goes over the yardarm even and this forum descends into bouts of mud-slinging. I won't even go to "feathers in bonnets".

[KWD]

My "opinion" is wear the dress shoe YOU feel is most comfortable to wear, I wear Gillies, why? because I like them. I also like my Off White hand knit kilt hose, which i wear often as well. I also have two other pairs of hand knit hose dark green and navy blue.

there is no book that says you can not wear this shoe to that event. Wear what you feel you are going to look and feel your best in.

it's great to ask for advice, but in the end, it is your decision, I don't think anyone has the right to bash someone else for what they choose to wear, if you think you look good that is all that matters.


kilt on