Buying my first formal

**JamieKerr** · 19th January 08, 12:12 PM

I own several kilts all purchased from Stillwaterkilts, and I absolutely love them. Unfortunately, however, they do not have my tartan. I've been looking for a good excuse to justify spending $500+ on a kilt in my tartan, and now that my sister's boyfriend is going to propose...I have the excuse I've been looking for!

So now I have a couple questions.

Firstly, would you folks recommend for or against the "kilt packages" offered by many shops? I'm looking for a kilt, jacket, fly, and probably a new sporran as well.

Secondly. There are a million kilt makers, can someone point me in a good direction? Prices range from relatively low to insanely high. And lastly, I have the same question regarding a dress jacket. I'm uncertain what type of jacket I want, though I'd rather not have to spend $250 on a jacket if I am able.

Any help you folks can offer me is much appreciated!

**beloitpiper** · 19th January 08, 12:38 PM

First of all: buying a complete kilt suit is not cheap. And if you do buy it cheap, it won't be good. So if you're not willing to invest a little bit of money, then stick with trousers.

Are you sure you want a fly plaid? I think that's best to be reserved for the groom.

As far as the package, if you're just looking for a new kilt and jacket and sporran, then buy them separately, but form the same location if possible. Most "kilt packages" I've seen have included everything from brogues and hose to waistcoat and tie.

Jacket, here's what you ask yourself: have you ever worn a tuxedo? Will you ever wear a tuxedo? If you wear a tux at least once a year, then go ahead and buy a Prince Charlie Jacket, but if the last time you wore one was for your high school prom, then get an Argyle jacket. They can be dressed up or down and are just far more versatile and modern. If you ever do need a Prince Charlie, you can always rent one. Argyle jackets, with waistcoat, I have discovered are far more practical.

Kiltmakers? Well, if you're going to buy a tank, talk to Matt Newsome, Barb Tewksbury, Kathy Lare, and even Rocky at USA Kilts makes tanks!

**JamieKerr** · 19th January 08, 12:54 PM

Thank you for the advice good sir. I was not 100% sure if I wanted the fly or not, but I will save that for my own wedding. I will heed your advice about the argyle. Frankly, I never ever wear a tux (thats why we have kilts!) so if I were to buy a pc it would get little to no use. And I'm not looking for anything cheap, I'm already planning on spending $8-900. I suppose I should better explain why I don't particularly want to spend $300 on a jacket. I do wear my kilts on a regular basis to work (I'm a social worker). Unfortunately, I've had a horrendous time trying to find a jacket to go with it. Most jackets are way too long, or don't fit me properly. I would like a dressy jacket that is something inexpensive enough that I feel safe wearing it 2-3 times a week. Were I to own a $300 jacket I feel I would wear it out too quickly.

**beloitpiper** · 19th January 08, 02:04 PM

I've converted an old wool jacket for casual use...

...and reserve my black barathea argyle jacket for more formal occasions.

**KiltedKop45** · 19th January 08, 03:51 PM

Hi, i just purchased two Argyle jackets with waist coat from tartan web who advertise here on Xmarks. the are currently having a sale and they are at a great price (that is if you want standard black wool). i agree that getting set up woth formal or even not so formal kilt wear is not cheap but the investment should last me a long time and I would rather be well dressed than sloppy dressed.

**KiltedKop45** · 19th January 08, 03:53 PM

By the way Beloitpiper, Great piping photo

**kiltedinUSMC** · 19th January 08, 04:08 PM

I would look at Rocky's selection. He might have the tartan you are looking for.
From what I have seen I would look into his packages he has some very sharp looking outfits.

**James MacMillan** · 19th January 08, 05:16 PM

I don't think I would get everything at the same place. Try to take your time, get plenty of information and get the best that you can for your money.

**Rampant Lion** · 19th January 08, 05:37 PM

It depends one what you're willing to spend. I would buy anything you'd have another chance to wear, ie. sporran, hose, flashes, etc. Anything that might be a one time thing you might consider renting. For example, the only thing I didn't buy that I wore to my own wedding was the Prince Charlie jacket. I have had a chance to wear everything else on other occasions.