Black wing collar shirt

[Randy McIntosh]

Aww yes the new white thing.

Black is not the new white.
So that said I'd vote no to the black shirt.

[Spartan Tartan]

Personally, I prefer the contrast of my shirt color to that of my jacket. Primarily, I would consider the likelihood of future use. I could probably get away with a black shirt... but a black TUXEDO (i.e. pleated) shirt? I can't see that ever making another appearance within my wardrobe.

[Zardoz]

Perfectly legitimate option, particularly with a tartan or other colorful tie.

[Dughlas mor]

Speaking as someone who hasn`t even worn a necktie since my brother got married, I say dare to be different, go for it!

[Blupiper]

My thought was if you were going with a black shirt in a Prince Charlie coatee, maybe breaking up the black monolith at the top of your torso with a tartan waistcoat, matching your kilt, cut on the bias? That might make a really distinctive statement and look pretty sharp. You could irk the traditionalists, as well.

JMB

[DyerStraits]

Black formal shirts--in all collar styles, including band collar--are generally very adaptable and appropriate for most Highland formal wear, in my opinion. The tricky element is neckwear: if it is very formal however, I would definitely opt for a white shirt and black tie. For anything less, a black shirt with any type of collared shirt (spread collar, Windsor collar, pin collar, tab collar, Eton collar,etc.) will work, with a visually appropriate/contrasting solid color necktie.

[Jock Scot]

Personally I am not a fan of black shirts, but respect those that do like them. However and purely as an observer, I really do think that black shirts do not show the wearer or the tartan kilt, off to best advantage.

[Lyle1]

I do not personally like the look of a black dress shirts worn with a black tie. However, with a bright tie that looked good with the kilt, it might look quite nice.

[Cardinal]

Take the host's preferences into account before deciding.

If I invite you to a function and ask you to wear "black tie," I am taking for granted that you know what it is and how to wear it correctly.

The folks who host the Oscars, on the other hand, have a much broader definition of the term, and they would undoubtedly think a black shirt fabulous.

Regards,
Cardinal

[mbuff]

Thanks for all the opinions and advice everyone. After debuting the look for the wife and receiving an enthusiastic thumbs up, I have decided to go with the black shirt and a brightly colored tie to break up the all black up top effect a bit. Since my Welsh cilt is brightly colored, I think it will work. Anyway, it's for a New Year's party and all about having a bit of fun. For a truly formal event, I would definitely wear a white shirt. Cheers and Happy New Year to all!