Balmoral with saxon clothes

[kingandrew]

Full disclosure: I am a hat-wearer and rarely leave the house without something on my head. So consider my comments in that context.

I have worn balmorals with and without the kilt, although I am much more likely to wear them when I'm kilted. However, in cold, windy weather they are a very comfortable, practical choice (not to mention stylish). In extremely cold, windy weather, I opt for my fur ushanka instead of the balmoral--unless I am kilted.

In the area where Tobus lives, I suspect cowboy hats--even rather flamboyant ones--would be seen as pretty "normal" for the same sorts of reasons that balmorals are so accepted in Father Bill's neighborhood. Each hat represents a cultural heritage that is widely recognized by the locals.

Although balmorals are my usual headgear with the kilt, I have also worn a tam, a pith helmet, and a heavy wool beret with a fur toorie that I bought from a street vendor in Shanghai. If I owned a "Sherlock Holmes" deerstalker, I would also wear that, since it is a traditional choice. I would even be willing to wear the flat "driving" cap, although I know many members do not care for that look. However, although I do own a rather flamboyant "ten gallon" cowboy hat, I would not choose to wear it with my kilt. I have worn it with trousers, though.

The old "So You're Going to Wear the Kilt" book suggests adopting the balmoral as a way to ease into Highland dress. If that works for you, go for it. I found that when I showed up in my kilt outfit to a social event for the first time, everyone loved it and seemed very excited. So I quickly stopped worrying about whether I might look odd or receive rude comments. If you wear it with style and pride, you will find that the kilt helps you connect with strangers in a positive way.

Have fun!

[Fedgunner]

For me, it is seasonal. 40 F to 0 F I wear a MOD tam or "bonnie blue".
Below 0 F, I opt for a full fur ushanka.

Just my preferences, no rules involved.