Quote Originally Posted by Zardoz View Post
These days Cossack or other Ukraine folk dress is rarely worn, it has become a quaint "costume" mostly for shows or ethnic events, etc.
So you're right if you view current Highlandwear the same way....
I don't, but I'm sure there are a good number who do. The point, which you seem to be ignoring, is that these events AREN'T just a night at the opera, or JUST a ball, they are UN functions.

SURE, wear a kilt and formal jacket to the opera, but NOT for this particular night at the opera.

Quote Originally Posted by MacMillan of Rathdown View Post
Hands up everyone who has attended the UN Ball in Vienna... I thought so. Okay then, let me explain what "National Costume" means on an invitation of this sort.

Many people who officially represent their country are required, by their government, to attend in national costume. Stop and think for a minute. When was the last last time you saw a picture of a Saudi prince at an official event in anything other than flowing robes? Dash off to any hair dressing salon and look at those old copies of "HELLO!" magazine and you will see pictures of sub-Saharan diplomats attending balls in national costume. Why? Because-- in 9 out of 10 instances-- they have to.

So, when the invitation says "White Tie or National Costume" it is politely opening the door for members of the international community to attend who might otherwise be excluded due to dress regulations imposed on them by their governments.

My original comments were in no way intended to discourage people from wearing the kilt. Rather they were intended to point out that the wearing of Highland attire to this event -- especially by a non-Scot-- would be wholly inappropriate.
***.

ith: