The idea I have in my head is that the only brogues that really go with formal, Highland evening attire are bar & buckle brogues or ghillie brogues. Some people even don't prefer either of those! For black tie evening wear, the aforementioned non-perforated, closed lace, thin sole, dress shoes would probably the most universally accepted -- aka Balmoral/Oxford. Can anyone comment on this?[/QUOTE]

Agreed, Colin. Buckles will be sought when I need something for the evening.