Evening dress jacket for "stouter" gents

[IrishSean]

I was looking at an old Wm Anderson catalogue that was posted on here awhile ago. http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...talogue-74888/

It said that, for evening wear, "the style of coat chosen requires most careful consideration. It depends on the figure of the wearer, the purposes for which the coat is required, and other considerations. The Coatee is specially suitable for a young man or an older man of slim figure. It is definitely less suitable for the stouter figure....The Doublet is less popular than it once was, but is suitable particularly for older men."

When I face reality, I recognize that I am no longer a young man and that my figure has always been closer to stout than slim. Yet, I am unsure that a doublet would be particularly flattering. The catalogue shows a Regulation (with low-cut waistcoat) and a Kenmore doublet.


Does anyone have any experience or suggestions?

[Chas]

The Sheriffmuir is very forgiving for those of us who wear our chests lower ...

[Jock Scot]

The Sheriffmuir is very forgiving for those of us who wear our chests lower ...

Sage words there Chas.

[plaid preacher]

.. or the balmoral doublet which is pictured under the wedding section. I recently purchased one on ebay and quite like it. It has a closed front, so no need for a vest; although it could be warm in summer, especially mine which is velvet. Here is a photo.

[Nathan]

.. or the balmoral doublet which is pictured under the wedding section. I recently purchased one on ebay and quite like it. It has a closed front, so no need for a vest; although it could be warm in summer, especially mine which is velvet. Here is a photo.

I love my Balmoral doublet, but it's a close fitting jacket and if I gained 10 - 15 lbs I may have trouble buttoning it. For someone whose waistline might expand the PC or the Sherrifmuir are the best options. Notwithstanding what Anderson said about the PC in the early 20th, the fact that the jacket isn't meant to button means that you have more room to grow before you have to have it replaced. Especially with a generous and adjustable waistcoat.

[plaid preacher]

Good point, Nathan. I have the advantage of being on the loosing side of the battle of the bulge. But I am guardedly optimistic and I will be able to hold this last bit of ground and not suffer another defeat. :-)

[IrishSean]

I do like the look of the Balmoral. As for Nathan's point, I have read that the Balmoral can be worn open (unbuttoned). Does that give a little more room for "growth"?

[creagdhubh]

.. or the balmoral doublet which is pictured under the wedding section. I recently purchased one on ebay and quite like it. It has a closed front, so no need for a vest; although it could be warm in summer, especially mine which is velvet. Here is a photo.

Gorgeous doublet! Well done indeed.