Choosing the Right Shirt and Waistcoat for Argyll Jackets

When it comes to the traditional and essential parts of the kilt outfits in Scottish events, kilt jackets stand out as the most prominent ones. There are many types of jackets paired with kilts, but Argyll jackets and Prince Charlie jackets succeeded in establishing great recognition. They are suitable for different formalities, and wearing them with the right components is the most important point. This article revolves around the Argyll jackets and means to discuss the shirts and waistcoats that suit this apparel. Let’s begin our guide and understand events to wear it.
Table of Contents
ToggleUnderstanding an Argyll Jacket and When to Wear it!

Argyll jackets are the traditional part of kilt outfits made with barathea wool. This fabric is warm and comfortable but suitable for both summer and winter. Argyles are a choice for both formal (daytime) and semi-formal events. Usually, they have a single-breast closure button on the front side. You get gentle cuffs on both sides that reach up to the wrists. Cuffs are worn in a way that shirts should be slightly visible beneath the cuffs.
Both sides of Argyll coats include pockets and silver-buttoned on the flap. The jacket also has shoulder straps on both sides adored with buttons and these buttons result in a charming appearance. You need some more kilt accessories to complete the attire such as shirts, waistcoats, ties, and sporrans. If we specify some particular events to wear Argyll jackets, they are given as follow:
Weddings | Highland Games |
Ceilidh | Black-tie Events |
Cultural Festivals | Formal Dinners |
Ideal Shirt Choices

It’s time to move a bit ahead and find the ideal shirts to pair with Argyle jackets. As we have come to know about their suitability for two types of events, formal and less formal. The selection of the shirts varies accordingly.
Formal Shirts
Argyll jackets are a symbol of fashion and tradition. To align this trait, you should consider a crisp white shirt that has a wing collar. Therefore, adding a tie, preferably a bow tie, makes it ideal for formal events.
Less Formal Options
Let’s talk about the shirt options for less formal or semi-formal events and Argyll jackets. For such events, usually a white or plain black shirt is a considerable choice. You can dress up a simple collared shirt and a tartan tie not only provides you with a stunning appearance but also adds a traditional flair to the attire.
Waistcoat Styles

Waistcoats are the backbone of Scottish attire, especially for formal settings. Argyll vests are usually worn in the same color and style. These waistcoats have five buttons as closures and one pocket on either side to keep your belongings within range. The V-designed top and silver buttons make them very pretty. Here are some options when choosing a waistcoat to wear with an Argyle jacket.
Contrasting Waistcoats
If wearing a vest at semi-formal settings, choosing a contrast in shades might be the amazing yet expressive idea. Though jackets primarily exist in blue and black, you can wear a tartan waistcoat or one with a different color.
Single-breasted vs. Double-breasted
Traditional waistcoats usually come with 2 different styles: single-breasted waistcoats and double-breasted. Those with a single layer are the part of an Argyll Kilt outfit but you can also attach one with a double-breasted vest according to the event’s theme and your personal choice. It adds a flair of uniqueness and more sophistication
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Outfit Combinations for Inspiration
The next point is to complete an outfit by combining appropriate products. All accessories that are part of Prince Charlie jackets outfits, are also suitable to this attire. Therefore, the selection of accessories varies because of the formality level of jackets.
Matching with kilt, tartan, and sporran: The first and most important aspect here is choosing the tartan. Wear your family tartan as a priority. If you do not follow a traditional clan, choose the universal tartan, but the patterns should match with the kilt jackets. Similarly, ensure you are wearing day or dress sporrans by keeping formality ahead.
Tie or cravat selection based on shirt and waistcoat: First check what type of event it is, whether it is a formal or a semi-formal and choose a tie relying on it. Remember, bow ties are a priority for formal events, while standard ones are for semi-formal events.
Sock (hose) and shoe pairing for balanced styling: There are two types of shoes to be paired with Argyll jackets: Ghillie brogues (the traditional Scottish shoes) for formal occasions and dress shoes (simple leather shoes) for semi-formal events. In socks you can opt for plain ones, but they should match the tartan. Likewise, tartan socks are also good options, but they should be the same tartan as your kilt.
Belt vs. no belt when wearing a waistcoat: The last point here is wearing a belt or not. Belts should be part of your outfit if you do not prefer a waistcoat because they do not match each other.
Fabric Considerations for Shirts and Waistcoats
Experts recommend prioritizing quality when pairing a Scottish outfit, regardless of any specific accessory. Argyll shirts and waistcoats also follow the same criteria. Consider buying a breathable and natural-material shirt that is made with linen or cotton because they guarantee comfort everytime. When it comes to the fabric material for waistcoats, you should consider premium barathea wool, depending on the occasion. These materials often make apparel durable and offer a traditional authenticity besides improving the appearance.
Pitfalls That are Common and You Must Avoid
Tradition and style are unquestionably combined when shirts and waistcoats are worn with an Argyll jacket. Wearing everything in accordance with the ensemble calls for careful consideration. The following discussion helps you avoid common mistakes. Moreover, it also ensures your outfit is sharp, appropriate, and perfectly balanced for any occasion.
- People usually make mistakes by wearing mismatched shirt collars. So, you should avoid wing collars with casual ties or button-down collars for formal events.
- Underestimating the fabric quality is also a common problem today. A mix of heavy wool jackets made by lightweight or shiny synthetic waistcoats results in an awkward look.
- Do not skip the waistcoat for formal events, as a majority does the same unintentionally. It does not let your outfit be complete.
- Wearing a waistcoat or shirt that clashes with your kilt tartan does not look great. Even it weakens the traditional aesthetic.
Why Shop with The Utility Kilt?
Regardless of what you need to buy; an Argyll jacket, shirt, or even a waistcoat, do not compromise the quality. To buy premium-quality fabric, you should consider a brand that already has a good reputation, and this is where The Utility Kilt comes into play. In addition to the quality products, we offer much more such as affordability, expert customization, on-time delivery, secure payment gateways, and hassle-free return and exchange policies. So, explore our online store today and order what you need. Here are some of our exceptional products that are worth trying.
Is a patterned shirt appropriate with an Argyll jacket?
Yes, designed shirts perform well with Argyll jackets offering a stylish yet sophisticated outfit. Therefore, ensure choosing simple patterns because the intricate designs can clash with the tartan’s pattern.
Is it appropriate to wear a waistcoat without a jacket?
Wearing a waistcoat without a jacket is not a traditional custom. However, the fashion statement today makes people do it. Therefore, it requires careful consideration of the occasion, the waistcoat itself, and the overall outfit.
Are Argyll jackets suitable for the summer season or not?
What type of buttons are suitable for a custom waistcoat?
You have many button material options if customizing a vest yourself. If looking for a natural material for a classical look, you can choose anything from horn or corozo. Moreover, metal buttons are also a considerably good choice for a formal or modern style.