Even in the Hebrides

[CMcG]

As I understand it, there are at least three problems with the "kilt hire PC" look. First is the break with living traditions, such as the rise of formal wear during the day, wearing other clan's (or non-clan) tartans, and the use of cheap, thin, white hose. Second is the uniformity, which goes against the flair and individuality that are such an important part of THCD. Third is the lack of attention to detail demonstrated by things like a dirk belt hanging askew under the waistcoat, pre-tied bow tie, too little knee showing, or thick-soled pipers ghillie brogues with the laces tied all the way to the calf. There are probably other issues, but I think these should suffice for the question I would to ask.

Let's imagine that someone really likes Prince Charlie coatees, light coloured hose, and ghillie brogues. A LOT. Is it possible to do this much-maligned-on-Xmarks outfit in a way that can look good or at least not rankle the traditionalists too much?

First of all, this hypothetical rig would only be worn to formal events in the evening. Of course! It would also need to feature a self-tie black bow tie, no belt under the waistcoat, a decent amount of knee being shown, and a tank in one's own clan tartan.

As for the other accoutrements, what if they got a PC like the one from Kinloch Anderson that has functional (or at least functional looking) buttons on the front?

http://www.kinlochanderson.com/the-k...-special-order

Or one in a nice, dark, green velvet?


How about hand-knit, ecru (not white) hose, like the ones from USAkilts?

http://www.usakilts.com/hand-knit-hose.html

Or these ones from McCarthy Highland Services?

http://www.mccarthyhighland.com/inde...t_detail&p=205

What if they wore dress ghillie brogues, with thin leather soles, tied with short laces, and well-polished? Something like these from Xmarks own Tobus:



In my estimation, this would break the undesirable cookie cutter mould of the kllt hire style and look quite sharp, while still using the same basic elements. It also turns the look back towards a more THCD approach.

What do you think?