Another "White Tie" Question

[Freelancer]

I've just read a comment in a recent thread stating that a Price Charles Coatee should not be worn to a white tie event. I've no such event to attend, but I am curious as to the reason. It's been my understanding that the PC was designed as the Highland equivalent of the standard tuxedo with tails, which is de rigueur for white tie. Hopefully, someone can explain the nuances involved in these conventions. Thanks in advance!

[Downunder Kilt]

The PC is indeed the equivalent of the standard tuxedo but not that of the dress coat/tailcoat, which is the standard dress of white tie

[Father Bill]

PC is black tie. Doesn't work with white tie which is a step up. In Saxon wear, white tie infers and tails.

[cck]

I won't argue with Downunder's response, but the last time I wore tails was for my wedding nearly 54 years ago. In the US white tie events are very rare. I attend quite a few black tie affairs and I am noticing an increasing number of men who do not adhere even to the black tie request. This annoys me, as does the general lowering of social customs. I think this has been discussed previously on this site and I am certainly not advocating it. Were I to be invited to a white tie event, I would wear my PC and a white tie. While this may not be exactly correct, you would stand out as being well dressed, although a bit differently. No one would object and in the unusual case they did, you could show them your little tails.

[MacCathmhaoil]

A PC is at the low end of the white tie spectrum, at least to my understanding. There are no shortage of them seen at the Royal Caledonian Ball however regardless of it being a white tie event (according to their dress code). I know some do substitute a tartan or a white Marcella vest/waistcoat and tie to up it's formality and many see that as suitable change. I have a velvet Balmoral and a black barathea Sheriffmuir for white tie, I don't own a PC as my black Argyy fills that niche.
I honestly don't think most notice or really care about the splitting of hairs on this one.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

I have in front of me a catalog from Fraser Ross in Glasgow (c.1945?) which has this to say about the Prince Charlie coatee: "Illustrated is the Prince Charlie Coatee, popular for Full Dress and Evening Wear." So yes, the Prince Charlie may be worn with white tie.

[cck]

Since the subject has come up, how often are "white tie" events held in various countries? And, are they truly "white tie"?

[creagdhubh]

I have in front of me a catalog from Fraser Ross in Glasgow (c.1945?) which has this to say about the Prince Charlie coatee: "Illustrated is the Prince Charlie Coatee, popular for Full Dress and Evening Wear." So yes, the Prince Charlie may be worn with white tie.

Yep. What Scott said.