Doublet Idea... am I off my rocker or on to something?

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

I wasn't intending this to be warm-weather only attire at all. I wonder how many people would see that at say, the Tartan Ball in Washington DC, and think, "Nice doublet.... awfully cold out for that isn't it?"...

I was hoping simply by virtue of this being a doublet coupled with a very nice tartan, and not just a typical dinner jacket, I could slide by without it being a faux pas.

I don't think it would be a faux pas, per se, although I do feel that it might end up in the stable with the other one trick ponies. The Tartan Ball comes pretty late in the season, and the white doublet, coupled with a predominately red & white tartan, would give it a "Christmassy" look that would probably avoid any adverse comment. But, because of its unusual nature, I don't think it's the sort of thing that could be worn all that often.

I think the overall style is sharp-- but for my money the white is too limiting. Were it I, I'd be considering something in claret, with either matching or black silk facings, and a black velvet collar.

[Teufel Hunden]

First, thanks for the posts, gentlemen.

I think the trick is in deciding where to wear it and what your attitude will be. If you expect to be having a good time, with maybe a small gleam in your eye, then I think you can face down anybody who might expect to quote the Kilt Statutes at you. If you are looking to fit in, maybe on your first visit to some highfalutin affair, well, maybe you should let your gentleman's gentleman guide you.

I like to cause a small stir, and get some positive attention when I go out looking my best. Fitting in is part of it, as I wouldn't want to look like a clown or have people think I'm trying too hard for attention, but a dash of color, especially when men's formal wear is almost like a uniform of black and white, is what I'm generally after. This doublet would be quite a bit more than a dash of color, but that's what I like about highland wear... sometimes it's tastefully loud. On your last sentence, my first experiences with highland formal events specifically, will be with my black Montrose worn like the pic I posted above, with the rest of the outfit being very typical or traditional... so I'll get a good sense of just how much flair people generally put into these things.

I don't think it would be a faux pas, per se, although I do feel that it might end up in the stable with the other one trick ponies. The Tartan Ball comes pretty late in the season, and the white doublet, coupled with a predominately red & white tartan, would give it a "Christmassy" look that would probably avoid any adverse comment. But, because of its unusual nature, I don't think it's the sort of thing that could be worn all that often.

Actually, the Christmassy look is something I'd avoid at all costs. Standing out and looking good is what I enjoy, but I would absolutely HATE to have people think I was trying to fit some theme or something like that.

I think the overall style is sharp-- but for my money the white is too limiting. Were it I, I'd be considering something in claret, with either matching or black silk facings, and a black velvet collar.

Great minds think alike, my friend.

I've thought about this color combo as well. Not claret specifically, but various shades of red. The more I think about it, I could have a LOT of fun with my current doublet before I go too crazy getting another one made, and when I DO get a new one, I'd like it to be a pony with at least two tricks.

I'll take some good pics with my current doublet and spend some time in photoshop experimenting with different colors. I think yours and Artificer's ideas would pan out pretty well.

It not only looks summery, it reminds of something a Nazi would wear. Looks like Reichmarshall Goering's white uniform. Put on 100 lbs, become a heroin addict, and it'll be perfect for you.

Summery perhaps, but I doubt many Nazis had kilts on.

[BoldHighlander]

Great suggestions...

I think the overall style is sharp-- but for my money the white is too limiting. Were it I, I'd be considering something in claret, with either matching or black silk facings, and a black velvet collar.

I was earlier thinking of a red (claret) as well. Why not both? Then you'll have the white when you wish to wear it, but won't be limited by it either?

Summery perhaps, but I doubt many Nazis had kilts on.

Indeed!