Quote Originally Posted by Eric Schutte View Post
Hello all

I am a first time poster here on XMTS and I was hoping some kind soul could guide me as I am planning on attending the 2012 Clan MacLean gathering at Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull. I have purchased a dress sporran and am saving money for a 16 oz Dress MacLean kilt from J. Higgins in addition to a waistcoat and jacket.

What I want to know is when in the company of clansmen from Scotland that I meet at the gathering, what should I wear or not wear in regards to highland attire so as not to offend anyone?

Just to clarify, my biological father was Merle MacVey. The MacVeys are a sept of Clan MacLean.

Thanks to you all,

Eric
Hello Eric,

We too are planning on attending the next Gathering on Mull, so I look forward to meeting you.

Most MacLeans wear the MacLean hunting tartan by day, and the red MacLean tartan for evening events. You certainly do NOT want to get a kilt of Dress MacLean, which has a white background. You certainly would appear a bit odd!

Now, not everyone can afford two kilts. If you can only buy one, I would get one of MacLean hunting tartan. Many MacLeans wear them even in the evening, including Maclean of Ardgour, and Maclean of Dochgarroch--two of our chieftains. MacLean of Pennycross wears the trews in the evening of hunting tartan.

For the daytime events at the Gathering, a tweed jacket, maybe a waistcoat (it can be quite chilly on Mull), necktie, hose that are not white, would mark you as One Who Knows. Of course you can go a little less formal and wear a sweater of fleece. For the formal evening events, many wear black tie. The Prince Charlie coatee predominates, but all other forms of evening doublets are seen. The Chief wears a doublet of green velvet with his silver salmon buttons. My suggestion would be to give the PC a wide pass and get either a regulation doublet, or the always popular and versatile Argyll doublet.

Most importantly, dress in a manner that you find comfortable. You won't be shunned no matter what you wear! There are even MacLeans at the Gatherings who wear white hose, although I must say they do stick out and occasionally evoke a chuckle or two by the cognizanti!

Cheers
Sandford MacLean