HIGHLAND WEAR

Argyll Jacket

Intro: Whilst still retaining formality, the Argyll Jacket has a slightly more relaxed appearance than its Prince Charlie counterpart. Designed and made around the turn of the eighteenth century for Archibald Campbell, the tenth Earl and first Duke of Argyll, the Argyll Jacket is very popular at weddings inside and outside of Scotland. With a more contemporary cut, the Argyll makes a superb alternative to the Prince Charlie for those who want to wear Highland regalia.

The Look: The Argyll jacket can be easily distinguished from others by taking a quick glance at the cuffs. Featuring upturned cuffs that slope towards an upwards point on the outside of the sleeve, the cuffs each feature three silver square buttons that face outwards. Typical jacket lapels end at the mid-rift then slope away outwards leaving the sporran exposed. The jacket features a single silver button just below the lapels plus another three on each pocket and one on each lapel. The jacket is normally worn unfastened and is typically available in black and grey varieties.

Essential Extras: A kilt is by far the most popular choice to accompany the jacket, although tartan trousers are a suitable and attractive alternative for those with knobbly knees – as mentioned earlier in the article, any tartan can be worn though there are traditions that you may wish to observe. Bow ties and ruches are the most popular neckpiece option and accompany a plain collar, or more commonly, a winged collar shirt. Traditionally, the jacket is worn without a waistcoat, but many modern outfitters have bucked this trend and are offering plain waistcoats (the same colour of the jacket) featuring five squared silver buttons.

Finishing Touches: The same accessories that accompany a Prince Charlie jacket are suggested for an Argyll - sporran, hose, belt, skean dhu, kilt pin, flashes and plain shoes/ghille brogues are the order of the day.