HIGHLAND WEAR

Prince Charlie Jacket

Intro: Perhaps the most formal of all the Highland options, the Prince Charlie has military roots and an imposing presence. With a very traditional look, the Prince Charlie has established itself as the current leader in Highland Wear, though that said, it is only marginally more popular than the Argyll. If you want to look the part and make a statement, go for the Prince Charlie.

The Look: The Prince Charlie is instantly recognisable from its cropped appearance. With normal lapels, sometimes with a satin finish the Prince Charlie tapers away slightly from the bottom of the lapels towards midway between the hip and the navel effectively showcasing the belt, sporran and waistcoat – the jacket then just back to just above the hips giving a pointed appearance to the hem. Adorned with fourteen square, silver buttons (three on each breast, one on each epaulet, and three on each sleeve facing forwards) the jacket is not fastened and is available in a number of colours with black, dark blue and green proving the most popular (and depending upon which tartan they are worn with).

Essential Extras: A Prince Charlie is worn with a kilt – trousers can be chosen but they are more suited to the Argyll Jacket. Any tartan can be worn though where possible it is traditional to go with that of your clan or the national tartan (Scotland, Wales and Ireland all have traditional versions). A number of outfitters have had their own tartans designed and you these can be worn, or if you are feeling a little more flush, you could always have one designed individually. A winged collared shirt looks best, although plain collar shirts are an option – a ruche or bow tie complements the overall look the best. A special waistcoat in the same colour as the jacket and featuring five squared silver buttons is the order of the day, although you could possibly wear an alternative but you should be aware that the traditional look will be lost somewhat.

Finishing Touches: Sporran, hose (socks) often in cream or black, belt, skean dhu (a small knife that  is tucked into the right sock), kilt pin (often in the shape of a sword), flashes (small decorative material in the same tartan as the kilt that is tucked into the turn-downs of the hose) and plain shoes or ghille brogues (aka kilt shoes – recognisable from the lack of tongue and the fact that they lace-up above the ankle) are the accessories you should consider if you are heading down the Prince Charlie route.