hello to all from a new member; a question about ghillie brogues

[brooklyn_wannabe]

Hello all!
Just joined your group, and have a question. I am about to invest in a pair of ghillie brogues and am trying to decide between a pair made by Loake, and the Thistle Co.'s. I have tried on the Thistles, but in my area ( New York City) the Loake model is not to be found. Any thoughts regarding quality, appearance, etc. between the two? The Loakes are a bit more expensive but I do not mind.
Thanks for taking the time to respond.

[Chas]

Hello brooklyn,

Welcome to XMarks from the other side of the Atlantic in Norfolk, England.

Being on the wrong continent, I am badly placed to advise you on shoes in the US except to say that ghillie brogues are not much worn in Scotland these days.

Regards

Chas

[Jock Scot]

Welcome, from Inverness-shire. If it were me, I would forget about ghillies and use my money to buy a GOOD pair of brogues instead.

[denmcdough]

HI:



from the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania


Concerning the brogues; if you really desire them, then why not go for it. It's all about what you want.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

I personally prefer the Loaks, but as others have said, ghillie brogues aren't widely worn in Scotland. Were it me, I would follow Jock's advice and buy a good pair of wing tip Oxfords (brogues to the Scots), or perhaps invest in a pair of Highland buckle and strap evening shoes.

Either way, I wouldn't wear them with white socks.

[artificer]

Either way, I wouldn't wear them with white socks.

Bah-dum-bum!

Unless your heart is set on ghillies, follow the advise of Jock Scot and MacMillan of Rathdown. A good pair of brogues (wingtips) works for kilts or p@nts, and is nearly always appropriate.

[BLHS209]

Welcome to the "X" from "upstate" NY.

Either way, I wouldn't wear them with white socks.

What's wrong with white socks???

Another in agreement - invest in a nice pair of "lace ups" (dress shoes). If you want the "look", then also get the long laces. I bought a nice pair of "lace ups" and have not had anyone "complain", yet.

[mrtackytn]

Welcome to X-Marks - from Music City, USA - Nashville, TN !!
And stick with the regualr wing-tip brogues !!

[brooklyn_wannabe]

Hey Guys ( yeah, I am an American so addressing you as "Chaps" or "Mates" would sound affected )
Thanks for all the feedback. I appreciate the opinions and advice, but I am not asking whether ghillies are worthwhile or not. I am dead-set on buying a pair as I like the way they look. My question was whether to buy from Loakes or Thistle Co.
I already own very fine brogues in brown and black, and just want some variety. I have tried on the Thistle model, but Loakes ghillies do not exist stateside and I cannot try them on for effect.
I am sure you can all identify with my little streak of dandyism. At least that is my assumption, given the level of wrathful obsessiveness in evidence in the threads dealing with attire in the Forum section, which i have been perusing with great mirth.

[McFarkus]

from Chicago. Ditto about getting wing-tips instead.