Is this actually formalwear...

[Nighthawk]

Ehh, that doesn't sound formal. Formal is something kind of on the line of the PC.

That reminds me, Nighthawk, you were asking a while back about using an Eton jacket. In case you haven't seen the thread, here you go.
campbell's thread"Cheap Formal Suit and Tie"

That will help you out.

I'm very confused about the zip off sleeves... It might look good for casual wear, though. Also, I don't think the use of the plaid does anything for making an outfit formal... You're probably right on that.

Good luck.

Why thank you, Ted! I appreciate the link. I still need to get myself an Eaton. I've had better things to spend my money on.

So- on the zip off sleeve issue- the costumer in my reenactment group is making me a jacket along these same lines. It was my idea, actually. I'm not using velcro or zippers, though, as those aren't exactly 17th century. We're using eyes and ties. That actually is the reason I was wondering about this jacket. I've been wanting to get one made for a while, and I had no idea that someone actually does it.

[Bugbear]

Oh! That makes sense then. Probably still not formal, but it would be kind of neat.

[Nighthawk]

Oh! That makes sense then. Probably still not formal, but it would be kind of neat.

Yeah, it should look great. I can't wait until we're done with it.

[Phil]

I think you were right about them just trying to make a sale. A "swordsman" type jacket would not be considered formal dress but is great for ceilidhs that sort of non dressy event.