Length and color of tie.

[GlassMan]

Since it will be a memorial service I would suggest a simple black wool tie. It will convey the appropriate sense of decorum and mourning.

[cessna152towser]

I would suggest if you can't get a tie in the same tartan as your kilt, then a black tie would be appropriate for this sort of occasion. Tie should come down to top of waistbelt of kilt.

[UmAnOnion]

I would suggest if you can't get a tie in the same tartan as your kilt, then a black tie would be appropriate for this sort of occasion. Tie should come down to top of waistbelt of kilt.

Chac, Sorry to hear about your grandfather - sounds like he as a very good man.
I would think the widest part of the tie should be at the same level as the top of the waistband of the kilt - same as when wearing trousers {shudder}
If it's any higher the tie point will emphasize any belly issues the wearer might have and look odd. ??:

[Robin]

Black is in the Gordon (clan) tartan, so a plain black woolen tie will match perfectly...also because you're wearing a dark grey jacket.

With a black jacket....a medium grey tie I guess.

Very sorry to hear.

Robin

[chacbalam]

Thank you for the condolences. I have worn a this combination before , but tthis time I want to make sure to get it right.

[Hamish]

Tim, I basically agree with what has already been suggested. Most definitely a plain tie and most definitely a woollen one (ie: no silks or polyesters). As for colour: since this is a Memorial Service and not, I assume, the actual funeral, black might be slightly too much (but then I'm not too familiar with your North American customs). If the service were taking place here, I would prefer to wear a navy blue tie, picking up the same colour in the tartan - but black would not be entirely out of place.

As for tie length, I have always undestood that the point of it should not cover the buckle on the wearer's belt, but is best just touching the top of it.