Quote Originally Posted by CMcG View Post
MoR's aptly named Sweltering Summer Rig (SSR) is an important consideration for the kilted in warmer climes. Even in Canada, with our reputation for cold temperatures, it gets hot. Today is a sweltering 42 Celsius (107.6 Fahrenheit), with the Humidex!

I'm not, however, sold on the white mess jacket. This is not an intrinsic judgement but more of a practical issue. A black mess jacket worn with an open-back vest or a dirk belt is considerably cooler than other formal kilt jackets. But it would also be suitable for non SSR situations...

If one has room in the closet, money to spend, and events where a white mess jacket would be appropriate, then by all means. Otherwise, I'd say a black one is more versatile and yet still forgiving in a good swelter. Especially if it was made in a fine, lighter wool.
All very good points, CMcG.

I would like to say a few words in defense of the white mess jacket and why I think it would be a good choice for many that deal with hotter temperatures.

I would first like to say that a white formal jacket probably isn't the best for a "first purchase" as far as formal wear is considered; as CMcG implied, it is really an secondary jacket. If you do deal with the heat and you want an all-round coat for SSR and year-round black tie, then the darker mess jacket is for you. Given how affordable these white mess jackets are, acquiring one really shouldn't be too much of a challenge for somebody that can also afford a quality kilt.

The black mess jacket, while cooler than many doublets or heavy-weight jackets, really meets its match when an evening event is held, at least in part, out of doors. As I said before, even with the surrounding mountains where I live, the sun can stay up until well after 21:00, and it is light until almost 22:00. Most summer-time events will at least have part of the venue be out of doors (a garden, terrace, etc.), and wearing something dark with the sun still beating down gets awfully hot awfully fast. The white jacket reflects the light and keeps you much cooler in sunshine.

If an event will be held indoors, I'd wear the usual dark jacket.

I don't currently own a formal kilt jacket (I've always rented in the past or worn a tuxedo with trousers), but I am now convinced that my first formal kilt jacket will be a regulation doublet in velvet. It's hotter, but with air conditioning will be just fine for year-round events. And if there is a summer event that would justify donning my kilt, I will likely spring for a very affordable white mess jacket.

That way I get the best of both worlds - a cool and classy jacket for the summer, and a warm and unique doublet for all other seasons.

Now to start saving for that velvet doublet...