I can't remember who posted a link to this, but I love it:

MacKenzie Frain 1822 Commemorative Coatee

Unfortunately it's out of my price range to buy. Here's my question to the masses.

1. What are your thoughts about the suitability of this coat at a modern formal highland affair? I know that some of our esteemed members have emphasized that "cookie cutter" formal wear is to be avoided if possible...but that there are also some general guiding principals as well. Would a coat such as this make one appear socially awkward (or worse yet, inept?) or as having flair and panache?

2. What type of vest and collar could a collarless coat such as this be worn with (aside from that historical style shown). Could this look be modernized by wearing a modern white cotton pique vest and hard front wing collar shirt (ala white tie)? Would it look awkward with black tie?

3. If I were to make my own based on this example...in perhaps, say, green velvet...what modifications would you suggest, if any?