CMcG I think your new jacket will be ideal for black or white tie events. For black tie either buttoned or unbuttoned would suit the occasion, and done up for white tie of course. As for your ghillie brogues with buckles and short laces, I would think it comes into the realm of you adding your own finesse to the outfit. In fact I am attending a black tie murder mystery dinner (set in the 1920's) aboard a train, this friday. I am intending to wear ghillies based upon your buckle attachment design. Good buy and wear the new jacket in good health