Seeking more opinions about White Tie and a velvet Sheriffmuir

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

With a velvet Sheriffmuir I'd suggest a seven-button black grosgrain silk waistcoat that buttons to the throat would be your best choice (not as hot as a velvet waistcoat). I'd also suggest that you have the turn backs (the Argyll-style "bucket" cuffs) done in black grosgrain silk as well. My preference for a shirt (and tie) would be one with a wing collar and a very full lace jabot. With a Sheriffmuir jacket you will want the sleeves somewhat shorter than on a regulation doublet or Prince Charile coatee to accommodate lace cuffs, which should fall mid-way between your wrist and knuckles. It is best to have the lace cuffs attached to the inside of the sleeve, either by small snaps, or by velcro. Since most shirts with attached wing collars come with French cuffs, I tend to buy them with an extra 2-inches of sleeve length. I then have the cuffs removed and a simple button placed at the wrist. This allows for much better freedom of movement. If you are wearing the Sheriffmuir at a black tie event, then you can dispense with the lace cuffs and wear a wing collar shirt with French cuffs-- the jabot is worn with black as well as white tie.

Something that I think looks quite smart with a Sheriffmuir is a silk brocade waistcoat, or a tartan waistcoat cut on the bias-- both really "lift" the look of the outfit.

Black tie or white tie, diced, argyle, or tartan hose really are de rigueur. Formal evening shoes (with either buckles or bows) should be worn. If you don't have formal evening shoes then a pair of highly polished black oxfords (not wingtips) will do every bit as well. Ghillie brogues should be avoided for formal or evening wear.