Formal Hose--loads of questions

[Dukeof Kircaldy]

Thank you!

[M. A. C. Newsome]

Since the question was about what to wear with a fancy doublet such as a Montrose or Sherrifmuir, and these types of doublets are not inexpensive on their own, I think you'll find that Argyle or diced hose will be the most common footwear to complete the outfit. Yes, they are more expensive than other kilt hose, but if you are shopping in the price range that allows you to buy a Montrose doublet, you probably won't experience too much sticker shock.

No matter how you are dressing, formal or casual, it's important that all the accessories be somewhat congruous in terms of both style and quality. For example, while there is nothing wrong with a Buzz Kidder country sporran in and of itself, wearing one with a Montrose doublet and full Argyle hose would throw off the look of the whole outfit.

This is not to say that Argyle hose are an absolute requirement for wearing with a formal doublet of this sort, but they are reccomended, and as this is the price range you are shopping in, expect the cost.

J. Higgins Argyle hose cost $45. This seems like a great deal. But when you realize that Argyle hose from just about any Scottish based supplier are going to cost in the neighborhood of $200, that should send up some red flags. Obviously you won't be getting the same type of product. It's not just a question of them being a little bit less expensive. They are incredibly cheap. I've seen them in person, and you can visually tell the quality is not there. So it's a bit like the difference between a $75 acrylic kilt and a $500 wool kilt. You wouldn't wear your really nice Montrose doublet with an acrylic kilt. Same applies for bargain basement socks.

But I think you could get by with a pair of really nice solid color hose. The color will depend upon the tartan, of course, but I tend to favor the darker colors for more formal attire. A nice bottle green or navy blue will work very well. Why not a strong red? Just avoid the lovat mixtures for formal wear. These multi-tones are more suited to country or day wear.

I'm going to disagree with Alan over the white hose. They are very commonly seen worn with a Prince Charlie jacket, and they don't look bad per se, but are not to my taste. I think their one main advantage is that if you are also wearing ghillie brogues, the white hose make a nice contrast to the black laces. But I'd still rather see a nice color.

But with the Montrose doublet (or a similar style) you are upping the formality level a notch, and I just don't think plain white or ecru hose will cut the mustard for this style of dress.
Aye,
Matt