navy mess jacket

[Sir William]

My late father preferred a black mess jacket over the more traditional styles of Highland evening jackets. As long as there are no military buttons or rank insignia of any kind, it is a perfectly acceptable alternative to a PC, etc. Because of their cut they need to be worn with a 3-button waistcoat. While black is the traditional colour, either red or rifle green also work well with a mess jacket and kilt. The cummerbund is to be avoided at all costs.

I'm in total agreement with MoR. Since you're planning to replace the buttons you could perhaps find some with a nautical theme to them, such as an anchor or ship.