Semi-formal outfit...opinions wanted within

[bubba]

I'd be inclined to add a vest, black or navy blue, to break up that vast field of red.

[Bob C]

I'd be inclined to add a vest, black or navy blue, to break up that vast field of red.

Or a tie, at least.

[Avonlea22]

I could probably add a tie easier than a vest. I'll have to go out and see if I can find myself a nice navy blue solid tie this weekend.

Thanks guys! I appreciate the advice.

As soon as I can afford one, I think I'm going to invest in an argyle. My next item after that will be a semi-dress sporran.

Any other suggestions would still be welcomed.

[HeathBar]

Avonlea,
I think the kilt, sporran, hose, and shoes look fine. But I think the red shirt is a bit much. If we go back to Hamish's guide to a balanced outfit, I think a white dress shirt would be better. The balance would be that the hose and shirt match, the flashes match a minor color in the kilt, and I think the tie ought to match the flashes. The kilt should be the center of attention. I just think the red shirt would over power the kilt.

[Avonlea22]

Very good points, indeed, and now you've got me really thinking about this even more.

I do have a white dress shirt, but as stated earlier, I'd have to find a tie, which is no big deal.

Would a hunter green shirt work well, or would it be the same scenario as the red?

[HeathBar]

I do have a white dress shirt, but as stated earlier, I'd have to find a tie, which is no big deal.

If you decide to wear a tie, I would go with a white shirt. Do you already a solid tie that matches any of your flashes? Iwould go with that before buying a new tie.

Would a hunter green shirt work well, or would it be the same scenario as the red?

A hunter green shirt would be better, but I would change the hose to bottle green. I think you mentioned you had that color hose. It would be more subdued than the red. The red just makes me think of the old British military uniform. I've got a red shirt as well, and I once considered wearing it with by Blackwatch SW standard. Then that image come to mind, and decided against it.
If you do go with the colored shirt, skip the tie. Personally I feel these types of shirts are too casal for a tie.
But take to heart, this is coming from a man who frequently hears..."you're not wearing THAT are you?"
Just remember the addition of a kilt to an outfit upgrades the "formalness" a couple of notches.

[Avonlea22]

If you decide to wear a tie, I would go with a white shirt. Do you already a solid tie that matches any of your flashes? Iwould go with that before buying a new tie.

Unfortunately, I do not own any solid colored ties.

A hunter green shirt would be better, but I would change the hose to bottle green. I think you mentioned you had that color hose. It would be more subdued than the red.

I actually don't own this shirt as of yet, but was planning on buying one tomorrow for work anyways. And yes, I have a pair of the bottle green hose. I also have red flashes that would match the red stripe in the tartan.

If you do go with the colored shirt, skip the tie. Personally I feel these types of shirts are too casual for a tie.

I'm actually leaning toward the white shirt and tie. I think that would look smarter. Maybe a nice dark green tie to match my flashes. Hopefully I can find one. Solid ties don't seem to be too popular these days. So many decisions, and precious little time. I just wish I had thought about this sooner, and was able to get an argyle jacket. That would really complete the look, and would make my shirt choice so much easier.

Thanks HeathBar

[Mike n NC]

If you do go with the colored shirt, skip the tie. Personally I feel these types of shirts are too casal for a tie.
But take to heart, this is coming from a man who frequently hears..."you're not wearing THAT are you?"
Just remember the addition of a kilt to an outfit upgrades the "formalness" a couple of notches.

god what a problem logging on. hope you read this before you make up your mind.


Avonlea22 first good to see you again! Welcome back!

White shirts, once the base of a dress outfit are passing from the male wardrobe. (not quickly enough for me) They are still a traditional dress shirt BUT... they are quickly becoming the yuppie cliche or uniform. One sees them mis-worn so often that I tend to disregard them even when worn with a suit. Fine for after 6 with a 3 piece or in the more traditional formal wear, they are now not something I would not wear for a semi-formal or day situation.

What do you wear? I would look to an Eggshell, Offwhite or even a light or pastel of one of the primary colors of your kilt. Any of these can be worn with a tie, solid color, contrasting but not clashing. Darker colors will work also but be very careful in the choice of color and tie. Normally an outfit looks better with the darker colors low, lighter colors above the waist.

Wearing a jacket? NO open collar, Please. This is a casual look that, as I remember, started in the late 50s and looks horrid at any dress function. Preceved as making a statement that "I don't care enough about you or your function to bother dressing for the occasion".

You are still a young man, leave the white shirt to the "boomers" except when required. Enjoy yourself and have a little fun with colors matched correctly.

Disclaimer: I know there are some that see white as the only dress shirt, you'll find most are of my age or near it. Also, the folk in europe have a somewhat different view of fashion. I'm speaking of here in the states, although when on embassy duty I did wear pale pastel shirts even with formal dress with good result.

As with any other advice, make your own choice, look good and have fun.

Mike