New to it all

[Dulcius ex Asperis]

Greetings from southeast Michigan!

As many (most?) Americans my lineage is somewhat mixed--shall we say--by now. But by fate or by God's good favor one of the still visible lines in my lineage comes down from Scotland. And at an early age my grandfather made sure my brother and I were aware of this fact. So such things as clans, crests, bagpipes, kilts, and tartans were mentioned not infrequently in his company--not surprising given the romanticized enthusiasm of young boys.

And yet, not much ever came of it. I listened to bagpipe music at my grandfather's and probably saw a pipe band a few times. I've never been to any kind of Highland Games or Scottish 'event' of any kind. No one I've ever known wore a kilt. And I've yet to even see a haggis (though the simple fact that a Scotch egg is called a Scotch egg makes me proud).

Fast forward to a few months ago: My own young son (5yo) has been exploring the distinctions between things that are for girls and things that are for boys. One such thing is the dress and skirt, which he can't quite figure out what exactly makes them only for girls. Discussing this topic, I showed him a map of Scotland, asked him what his last name was, and where he thought that name came from. Admitting he didn't know, I confirmed that the name is Scottish and that in Scotland, sometimes men do wear a kind of a skirt, a kilt. It's a predictable story from there how it wasn't long before I was online researching and then ordering a kilt for my boy. (And how can you run any serious searches about the kilt and kilt etiquette without somehow stumbling across XMTS?) And, you might ask, how could I possibly put my boy in a kilt without supporting him by tapping into my own boyhood wishes and getting a kilt to wear myself? I'll answer you: I couldn't. I simply couldn't. So I have on order not one but two(!) kilts. And it just so happens that there is an upcoming wedding for some very good family friends in July. So after some deep soul searching and careful negotiation with the family cosigner I plunged and added an Argyle Coat and vest (and a few other things) to the order so that I would be able to show myself at the wedding in something approaching (hopefully) respectable Highland attire. I am a newbie on all accounts, but after lurking here for a little while I've at least developed a desire to wear the kilt well. And that is what I hope to do.

So if you've made it this far, perhaps you can go a bit further and lend me a hand with some advice. The wedding is in the afternoon but the reception is in the evening. I plan to wear the only kilt I will have (5y, 16oz., Ferguson Modern), the nicest white button-down shirt in my possession, Argyle Coat and vest, tie (TBD), black leather sporran (I would wear a dress one but just couldn't afford it and can't bring myself to buy one for $20 on ebay--same for the Sgean Dubh), either green or blue hose, and red garter ties if I can get some. And finally, I have no plans to acquire Ghillie Broghues but have these shoes. I can't tell. Do they scream, "He has no idea what to put on his feet when wearing a kilt!!" or might they say nothing at all and just blend in? Thoughts? Recommendations?

Thanks in advance,

RF

[Mael Coluim]

Purrfect shoes for the occasion!

[billmcc]

Purrfect shoes for the occasion!

I agree!! I think they are much more appropriate for the occasion than Ghillie Broghues.

[cdarwin]

Your choice of shoes are fine and you should not lose any sleep over them. As for garter ties, check the forum sponsor at the top of the page, "Scotish Tartans Museum" giftshop. I suggest a silver silk tie for weddings. A black leather sporran is quite versatile and will be fine for your needs. IMO, sgian dubh is not necessary. I've never carried a blade on me in my life so why should I wear one as a decoration? As a functional alternative, I'm looking into a 'sgian brew' (decorative bottle cap opener) but I have no problem going out without one.

Sounds like you are well on your way to a joyful wedding. Don't get too caught up in the minutia of details. The most important thing is that you are comfortable and having a good time. Finally, welcome to the forums!

[ohiopiper]

The shioes are fine. Ghillies are "traditional", but you almost never see anyone other than rental wearers or pipers wearing them. I'm a piper, so I wind up wearing mine quite often. When I'm not piping, I wear regular dress shoes. Lately it's been a pair of those Dr. Scholls things. Comfy!

[ohiopiper]

Oh, and welcome to XMarks!

[Jock Scot]

Welcome, from Inverness-shire.

You have had good advice so far. For what it is worth, I wear similar shoes to yours quite often to weddings. As to tie, I am not sure what you mean by "(TBD)", but just so you know, tartan ties are best avoided at all times whilst wearing a tartan kilt. Just to put your mind at ease, it is usual and quite acceptable to wear day wear (as the wedding is in the day) to the subsequent evening hi jinks. Have fun!

[Chas]

Hello RF,

Welcome to XMarks from the other side of the Atlantic in Norfolk, England.

Regards

Chas

[Father Bill]

Sounds like you're getting good coaching. Welcome to The Rabble!

[Spartan Tartan]

First, from another (displaced) Michigander!!!

I can't wait to see the pictures of you and your son. I'll admit, I had similar experience with my son--who now LOVES to "kilt-up" and will spontaneously suggest that we do so.

Jock, TBD = To Be Determined...meaning the OP is not sure what tie (if any) he will be wearing to the wedding.