"Kilt Casual" (?) at a Burns supper

[Detroitpete]

This thread may be very similar to the "Party attire" thread, but I just thought I'd pose the question at hand as a way of getting feedback, but also as an attempt to discuss how "kilt casual" can be defined by our experienced rabble. If the mods decide that it is too similar to a current thread, then please disregard.

Our annual Burns Night will be held again this year, but with a new twist. Previously this was a more formal event--gents in PCs or black argyle's with waist coats--most all with black bow tie.

Now, the invitation reads that it is to be a more casual affair and dress is listed as "kilt casual" and "pub style atmosphere". Yes I'm a Highland Heavy Athlete, but I know I'm not walking in there with my spikes on and a T-shirt with the sleeves cut off

I believe that I know what I'll wear, but what say you? What does 'kilt casual" mean for you at a Burns Supper?

http://detroitscots.com/ and http://detroitscots.com/Burns_2011_Flier.pdf

[Lyle1]

Forget that it is a "Burns Dinner." Obviously the organizers are departing from past custom. Wear what you would wear if you wear if you were going to the pub for an evening and wanted to be a bit better dressed than tee shirts and sneaks!

[Tobus]

To me, "pub attire" means a jacket (or waistcoat, but probably not both), colored shirt (not white), and tie. Nice shoes, plain kilt hose, and non-formal sporran. But that's just me.

I really think it's a mistake for organizers to use the word "casual" in invitations these days, as the current vernacular tends to associate that word with "anything goes" or "come as you are". People think of "casual" as being flip-flops, Bermuda shorts, and a t-shirt. And I don't think that's what they intended.

[Whidbey78]

"Casual" is the worst word in use on invitations! Too vague.

I'm with Tobus--jacket or waistcoat, plain hose, etc. A sweater may be acceptable as well. This is what came to mind when I read your post:


Not a great pic, but a fair illustration of my intent.
I think it's safe enough to work without being over or under dressed. Maybe have a tie on hand and wait to see a few people walking in and put it on if they're wearing one, and leave it in the car if they aren't. I'm never fashionably late...I'm in the parking lot making sure I'm dressed right since people insist on terms such as "business casual" "semi-dress" and "jacket preferred"!

[Spartan Tartan]

In this case, I certainly would NOT over think it. The very use of "pub style" tells me this is an "anything goes" event. I wouldn't be surprised to see flip flops and t-shirts. My guess is what you already mentioned, the organizers are hoping to drum up participation...

Although, I must agree too that "casual" just makes invitations confusing. I'd rather the invite say, "anything goes" or "wear whatever you want".


EDIT: I would add that since I do not have a jacket, I'd go with a shirt and tie and a sweater. I'd have my Flogging Molly T-shirt on underneath

[M. A. C. Newsome]

If I got the invitation I'd probably wear something like this:


If I arrived and found myself the only one wearing a jacket and tie, those items can be easily removed (if one felt uncomfortable being the only one so dressed). On the other hand, if you show up in your Flogging Molly t-shirt and everyone else is in jacket and tie. not much you can do...

[Tartan Tess]

I think of it like car shows...Wear what ya brung"
Here in Maine, at the burn's dinner you will see everything from t-shirts with kilts to the really fancy jackets. I would say 50% are wearing kilts and sweaters that match a color in the tartan.
What the Heck, it is a fun night and usually for a good reason. Just wear your kilt and that is the main thing.
God, you say women are bad with shoes and purses etc.... :0)

[Spartan Tartan]

What the Heck, it is a fun night and usually for a good reason. Just wear your kilt and that is the main thing.... :0)

I know I previously said, anything goes, but PLEASE wear more than just your kilt!!

[Downunder Kilt]

I think Matts suggestion gives you the most vesitility to cover every situation.

[CMcG]

Matt's advice is sage, as always. But a look at the invite says "period costume or kilt casual"... will this be a pseudo-Ren Burns Night?