How odd - most Balmorals not only have toories but they also have "tails" - ribbons down the back. The ribbons may have been pre-tied or they may be loose. Not to put too fine a point on it - but a Balmoral is NOT a beret - it is in fact a Balmoral - though the difference may seem small to the untrained eye. I think Jock Scot's got this one right. A friendly conversation should put things right.

Not to hijack your thread but I was told by a Scots lass her in Idaho that no "real Scot" would wear a Glengarry to a college graduation. I was - along with gown, Isle of Skye kilt, white shirt and black tie - no jacket or waistcoat hiding under a master's gown... I wonder what some of our "real Scots" would say about that one too.

Hang in there Hector it will take us all some time to educate the masses me thinks!