Quote Originally Posted by MacMillan of Rathdown View Post
True patent leather oxfords would probably look okay-- but what SAMS is referring to are those slightly over-sized black "plastic finish" shoes worn by the military services of the USA, which, in my opinion, look just ghastly.

Evening shoes, even those intended to be worn with the kilt, should be of light weight design-- they are meant for dancing, not tromping around the moors or marching in a parade. The Bates "patent leather" military oxfords are designed to be born all day by soldiers, not for a few hours at a dance or dinner by a kilted gentleman.

You can get decent, light weight, slip on "patent leather" dress shoes at most tuxedo shops and, for a few bucks, you can have buckles attached by your local shoe shop if you don't think they look "Scottish" enough without 'em.

With black tie highly polished oxfords look the biz-- as do slip-ons. For years, out in California, Col. James Bellah used to cut quite a dash in his well-polish Gucci loafers at black tie events. He also cut quite a figure on the dance floor-- something that is, at best, awkward to do in a pair of Bates "patent leather" floaters!

So, in answer to your question: Ghillies? Nope. Bates "Patent Leather" military oxfords? No, thank you. Highly polished, thin soled oxfords? Yes. Definitely the best choice for wear with black tie Highland attire.
Dear MacMillan,

I think you are referring to the Bates "Corfam" shoes, and no I don't think that was the intent. Yes those shoes are terrible. I had to wear them during officers training and they did not breathe at all - I had to punch holes in the instep to let the sweat drain out.

After I was commissioned, I swore I would never wear those abominations again.

I'm referring to real patent leather.

Cheers, ColMac