Brogues/Ghillies

[Blackwolf]

MoR gives some excellent advice. The one thing I would add is that since ghillies are a one-purpose shoe and regular oxfords, cap toe shoes, wing tips, or just about any other good black tie shoe will serve non-kilted purposes as well, don't pay the extra money unless you really like them.

I alternate between a black cap toe shoe with a kiltie attached for moderately dressy wear, a cap toe blucher oxford in cordovan for day wear, and a plain toe, spit-shined black oxford for black tie. All of them can be worn with any type clothing.

That sounds like a good idea. Having one shoe for other suits and looks is always a better option in my opinion. And then noting what Jack Daw mentions below about lacing them I may wait a bit before investing in those.

I find ghillie brogues sort of annoying to wear for anything other than piping and black-tie events. If I tie the laces too tight then they are uncomfortable, and if too loose, the laces slide down my shin.

That's a good point I'd not considered Jack Daw. Thanks for your experienced advice.