Buckle brogues yes, Ghillie no: Come & have a go if you think you are 'ard enough

[DWFII]

I was, by the way, the individual with whom you had a previous discussion about buckle brogues and, yes, the buckles, where they are positioned, do not interfere with the flexing of the foot in any way. I say that as the owner and wearer of a pair and as such, that fact (as your Constitution so aptly says) is self-evident.

Well I wouldn't say "self-evident." But, since I have never worn a pair, I can't call into question your first-hand experiences. And since you have so graciously identified yourself, let me apologize to you personally...by name, Phil...for questioning your testimony. I did not mean to offend.

I will say this, those who want to express their inner "dandy" are allowed...in most western societies. Some of us, myself included, tend to express what comes natural. I don't like flowery colognes, as an example. I like the smell of leather and tobacco and smoke and the good earth (dirt, in other words). I don't know whether that says to you that I am uncertain of my masculinity or not. I don't feel particularly compelled to question it one way or the other--it is what it is. I'm not a man of many pretensions.

BTW, thanks for coming to the fore...I was actually hoping you would do that...and besides which, it helps bring me just that little bit closer to the magic 500 mark.

[Phil]

I will say this, those who want to express their inner "dandy" are allowed...in most western societies. Some of us, myself included, tend to express what comes natural. I don't like flowery colognes, as an example. I like the smell of leather and tobacco and smoke and the good earth (dirt, in other words). I don't know whether that says to you that I am uncertain of my masculinity or not. I don't feel particularly compelled to question it one way or the other--it is what it is. I'm not a man of many pretensions.

Your apology is quite unnecessary but gratefully accepted nevertheless. I agree that a certain degree of eccentricity is permissible and that minor peccadillos such as you describe cause no-one any problem. If, however, you chose to wear any form of unconventional clothing it is likely that you would encounter anything from disapproval to downright aggression and for that reason most of us do tend to stick to the conventional. I would never consider travelling to work in a suit with buckle brogues and a lace jabot. Wearing Highland dress, however, gives the opportunity to stand out from the crowd to as great or lesser degree as one feels comfortable with. Some simply wish to be "one of the crowd" whereas others go for individuality. It is not an attention-seeking thing, however, simply a wish to express one's individuality. And if I am to be honest it is also to tell the world that all this stuff is mine, bought and paid for, and not some ill-fitting outfit from a hire shop. I hope this explains things and, just as I would never be critical of someone who has dressed to their own taste, so I would expect them not to criticise mine.

[Phil]

Apologies for posting these pictures again but they come from a tailor's catalogue of the 1950's (and probably pre-date then) and show the various types of shoe in fashion then with Highland dress. Some are "Mary Jane" types and some closer to "penny-loafer" style. There is even a pair which look like ghillie brogues but with shorter laces, not tied up the leg. A possible solution for another member whose legs just don't suit ghillies?