So you've decided you want to try wearing a Kilt to an event, but you're unsure which jacket is the correct option? You have come to the right place, this guide will answer all your questions. There are two options when it comes to Kilt Jackets: Prince Charlie Jacket & Waistcoat or the Argyll Kilt Jacket.
Today, the rules surrounding Kilts and the accompanying accessories are not as strictly adhered to, however it is still good practice to stick to tradition when wearing a kilt. While the Prince Charlie Jacket & Waistcoat is worn for formal and evening events, the Argyll Kilt Jacket is the standard attire for more casual, or daytime events. See below for the different rules surrounding each Kilt Jacket and the different variations we offer on the ScotlandShop website.
As mentioned above this is the more formal of the two options, more commonly worn as evening wear to formal dinners and weddings, and appropriate for black tie events. This Jacket is paired with a Wing Collar Shirt and either a black Satin or Tartan Bow Tie (in a tartan matching your kilt). This Jacket is longer at the back than at the front, has 3 non-fastening silver buttons down each side of the opening and is paired with a 3 fastening button waistcoat. The Prince Charlie Jacket & Waistcoat is only available in black, as this is the most traditional colour and can be worn with any tartan.
This Jacket is the more casual of the two options, it is the standard daywear jacket and perfect for all-day weddings and other daytime events. It is traditionally paired with a standard collar shirt and a plain coloured or tartan tie to match your kilt or tartan trousers. A semi-dress sporran can be worn with a five button waistcoat to make the outfit more formal but this is not essential.
As well as in traditional black wool we currently offer the Argyll Jacket with a matching five button waistcoat in 7 different tweed colourways, from standard greys and navy blue to striking purple or russet red. You can view the jackets in our Edinburgh shop or let us know which tartan you want to co-ordinate with and we can suggest the best combinations.
If you want to make a statement we can also custom make the Argyll Jacket in a tartan of your choice. This jacket looks great with a plain or tartan kilt. Remember if you are matching with an existing kilt to either order a swatch to check colours as they can vary from one mill to another, or let us know where you bought your kilt so we can make sure we use the same fabric weight.
