Jacket to doublet conversion.

[Sir Didymous]

In another thread I was talking about having a more casual style of Montrose doublet made. I then found a very good price on this jacket that was made using the pattern that was serving as the base for my attempt. I figured this would be rather easily converted, though it is blue in stead of grey. I still plan on replacing the buttons with plain antiqued brass dome buttons, and I am weighing the pros and cons of adding the epaulettes. Does anyone know if epaulettes would effect the level of formality? Either way, this is the jacket. Any thoughts or opinions from others more knowledgeable than myself (which is everyone on here) would be helpful. Thanks.

[Chas]

I don't think the colour will make a difference.

If it were me, I would add the epaulettes. You might want to use a fly plaid some day.

If the material is available I would add gauntlet cuffs rather than Braemar.

Brass buttons will make a nice change.

[Nathan]

Given that the two rows of buttons are parallel rather than in a V formation, it is a little different than the Montrose but there's nothing wrong with being a little unique.

In terms of modern Traditional Civilian Highland Dress, any doublet would be rather formal. An exception might be Matt Newsome's tweed Sheriffmuir but his is the only one of its kind I have seen (although OC Richard can probably produce a 100+ year old photograph demonstrating that there is a precedent).

From a traditional perspective, as I understand it, the only casual jacket is a single breasted tweed "Argyll" although the cuff style (Crail, Braemar, or Argyll) really doesn't matter. Epaulettes also don't add or subtract from the formality of the jacket but assist if you would ever like to wear a plaid.

I think this doublet would work best if worn as a Montrose with jabot and cuffs, diced or tartan hose, buckle brogues and full dress sporran but I can't feel the weight of the fabric.

I know that given your interest in reenactment, you have a penchant for blending historical and traditional looks.

If you're going to go traditional, the choices are clear. If you're going to use traditional and historic as simple inspiration and are going to come up with a one of a kind anachronistic look, then have the courage to do what you like without concern for approval. Just march to the beat of your own drummer and don't ask anyone else whether or not it works.

[ASinclair]

I agree with Chas about the epaulettes and gauntlet cuffs. If it was me, I'd add them. But I also agree with Nathan, do whatever you want! ith:

[Hopper250]

In terms of modern Traditional Civilian Highland Dress, any doublet would be rather formal. An exception might be Matt Newsome's tweed Sheriffmuir but his is the only one of its kind I have seen (although OC Richard can probably produce a 100+ year old photograph demonstrating that there is a precedent).

This is probably true and I would love to see such pics.