Lately I've been searching for some tips and recommendations for an upcoming black tie event I'm to attend. In doing so, I've seen or read about many varying ways for a Black Argyll to be used at such an affair, and I'd like the rabble's thoughts.

All below examples are assuming a turn down (full) collar, plain front white pique' shirt and black silk bow tie, as well as kilt/hose, etc.

1) With 3 button black waistcoat. So far, this is seems the most highly recommended.

2) With non-matching waistcoat. Tartan would fit into this catagory. If going tartan, could you go with a higher 4-5 button cut and still maintain the appropriate level of formality?

3) Black 5 button (Argyll) waistcoat. Generally recommended for daytime events with a straight neck tie.

4) No waistcoat - dress kilt belt (ie BIG waistplate). The rabble's thoughts? I know in A/Saxon dress it's generally frowned upon to have an 'undressed' waist... so would the waist plate and belt suffice for Highland formal dress?

5) Cummerbund. Somewhere in the forums I've seen reference to using it, but my search-fu is weak from lack of sleep. I know it's more of a Saxon ornamentation, but would a cummerbund work with a kilt and Argyll?

As always, I'm grateful for an info our knowledge-rich forumites can share.

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