Cheap formal wear?

[Caddy One]

Chef.........You have my vote on this matter....could not agree more...

[Dukeof Kircaldy]

Since I happen to like dressing up and doing so on the cheap, my time to weigh in.

Most highland formal wasn't too set until recently. Case in point the doublets. Now it's pretty much black barathea, but in olden times there were variations in colour. There have been enough what type of doublet posts here to get the idea that the cut hasn't been uniform either. Some doublets come from military styling (e.g., the regulation) and others from formal wear (the prince charlie).

So, there are loads of ways to go for cheap formal wear: buy ex-hire, find plain-off second hand, convert, or make your own.

I agree that it's better to build an outfit than go splash out on a complete ensemble. In fact, that's one of the reasons I don't rag on the inexpensive sporrans on eBay. Start with something you can afford and work up to something better, especially if you are going to wear the outfit once a year.

In fact, if you are doing it once or twice a year, rental makes sense. For those of us with unusual tartans, buy the tartan items and rent the rest.

Some people get lucky when it comes to formal wear, especially if they are an "average" size. Otherwise, there are tailors who can alter the clothes.

I guess the question I would ask is how are you going to dress? If you are going to do a lot of formal occasions, then it makes sense to buy. It makes even more sense to buy the best you can afford. Otherwise, rental works.

Or buy something like a Barathea Argyll jacket. they are fairly versatile. That was what was suggested to me when I started getting into the kilt. It is advise that works.

I dress in doublets because I enjoy that, but not everyone needs one.

[davedove]

I agree that it's better to build an outfit than go splash out on a complete ensemble.

I generally agree with all your statements, but this one is not necessarily true for all folks. I'll agree that most people can't run out and buy the whole outfit at once, but for those with the resources, buying the whole outfit in one package is often cheaper in the long run because of the package discounts.

[Dukeof Kircaldy]

It really depends on the package, but there are good package deals out there. Some people can't afford that though. Go with where your budget feels comfortable.

DWFII is correct, you need to be committed and not mix and match too much.

Part of the reason I like the inexpensive eBay sporrans. You can get an acceptable day or dress sporran at a reasonable price. If you don't do a lot of day or dress occasions, why spend a lot of money on something which you won't use frequently?

The formal wear aspect of the kilt is sort of formalised. Try to stick within the form. Don't mix Scottish with Sassenach, or day with dress.