Of course, I agree with Matt, and Kevin raises a very valid point, with which I also agree.

Basically: brown = daytime/informal/casual whilst black = evening/formal/dress. This would not apply to business suits (with t------s), however, when black shoes would be worn regardless of the time of day (if I remember correctly - it WAS a long time ago!)

Black hose with shoes/brogues makes that lower part of the body mass look far too heavy - as does navy or bottle green hose. If black boots are being worn, however, the wearer can get away with the dark hose ...... provided that hose is worn rolled or folded down. Beige or Oatmeal hose is the saviour of us all since it can be worn both informally and semi-formally!

I am afraid the serious kiltwearer does need a set of brown accessories (footwear, sporran, and belt) and another in black. Those misguided, and uninformed, souls who consider the kilt to be a garment for special occasions only, might just get away with the black set - but not the rest of us!