Prince Charlie vs. Argyll Jackets: Understanding Differences
All the accessories of kilt outfits are important, and each of them has a specific past, but kilt jackets are the most integral parts. They have various types that are worn at different events. Among them all, two jackets; Prince Charlie and Argyll jackets are the most popular in Scotland. They differ significantly from each other, and those new to kilts are eager to explore their dissimilarities. This article aims to discuss the dissimilarities between them. But before we explore uncommon aspects, first let us understand what they actually are.
What Is a Prince Charlie Jacket?
A Prince Charlie jacket is not a traditional part of Highland dress but Scots wearing it after the 1920s. It is a beautiful jacket that reminds people of Charles Edward Stuart who used to wear this style of jacket during the Jacobite Rebellion.
This certain jacket usually comes in blue and black shades because it is specific to strictly formal events. The closure sleeves and sides on the front have 3 buttons, while 4 silver buttons on the long tailback offer it a unique look. Epaulettes and two side pockets are additional features. It is usually worn with a waistcoat, which also has 3 buttons.
What Is an Argyll Jacket?
Argyll is an ancient region in Scotland and this certain jacket was worn there. Thus, this is how it got this name. Its history is not that deep. Some resources claim this style to be invented in the 16th century, while a majority talk about in the 19th century. It is a little more versatile than the Prince Charlie jacket and is suitable for both formal and semi-formal events.
An Argyll jacket is a traditional jacket worn especially as a Scottish Highland dress. Normally, they are typically single-breasted jackets featuring gauntlet cuffs and longer sleeves. Argylls are made from Barathea wool or tweed. It’s typically worn open, paired with a kilt, a shirt, a tie, and a sporran. A waistcoat is optional, and if an individual prefers, usually 5-buttoned ones are paired with it. Moreover, a belt and buckle are also worn with it.
Key Differences Between Prince Charlie and Argyll Jackets
Here comes the moment to discuss the central purpose of our topic, which is “Prince Charlie vs. Argyll jacket.” Those who do not have much information about these kilt jackets may differentiate between these jackets even in their shapes. However, deeply studying this piece of information will clarify everything for them.
Formality
Prince Charlie Jacket: Whenever we talk about the most formal kilt jacket, the Prince Charlie jacket comes to the front. This jacket is worn at evening-based occasions such as weddings, black-tie events, award shows, etc.
Argyll Jackets: Argyll jackets are usually less formal than Prince Charlie jackets but more versatile, as they can be paired at semi-formal events as well. You can wear it at day-based weddings and Scottish festivals such as Highland Games, Hogmanay, and Burns Night.
Cut and Fit
Prince Charlie Jackets: No matter what variation of kilt jacket it is, the cut and the fit are different from regular jackets. Prince Charlie jackets usually are the front to make kilts visible, while the tail is longer than other jackets. Therefore, its fit ends at the end of the waistline.
Argyll Jackets: An Argyll jacket is an adaptable part of Scottish attire, and its fit should be according to the suit jacket. The jacket should sit snugly on the shoulders and upper part of the back. It often is worn with a tailored waist and has a shorter cut to complement the kilt. Remember, the jacket should not sound too loose after buttoning it.
Styling and Accessories
Prince Charlie Jackets: A Prince Charlie kilt outfit does not comprise only a jacket, vest, and a kilt. In fact, it has many other kilt accessories that are essential to add.
| A Kilt itself | Jacobite / Ghillie Shirt | Sporran |
| Belt & Buckle | Fly Plaid and Brooch | Ghillie Brogues |
| Hose and Garter Flashes | Kilt Pin | Sgian-dubh (optional) |
Argyll Jackets: An Argyll jacket also shares the same criteria, but the number of accessories may be a bit lower. Therefore, adaptation in kilt accessories is also a possibility, as wearers are not specific to the single product only.
| Tartan Kilts | Shirt |
| Sporran | Kilt Shoes, Hoses, and Flashes |
| Belt and Buckle | Kilt Pin |
The Price Differences
Prince Charlie Jackets: Price difference is also a factor that impacts the decision. Prince Charles’s jackets are usually considered more expensive because of their unique formal design and use of only premium-quality material.
Argyll Jackets: The design and the construction of Argyll jackets are much simpler than other jackets, which also impacts their price tag. Even tweed fabric is sometimes used to make this particular kilt variation, which is an economical fabric.
Comfort and Practicality
Prince Charlie Jackets: When it comes to the comfort and practicality of Prince Charlie jackets, people consider them less comfortable than Argyll jackets. A common reason is a tight fit, but the construction with pure barathea wool makes them pretty comfortable. For practicality, they have two pockets, while sporrans also support it.
Argyll Jackets: Wearers usually consider Argyll jackets to be more comfortable because of loose fitting.Some jackets are made with tweed fabric, which is a fabric with a rough surface; the comfort level may be compromised there. They also have two pockets and an internal pocket for sufficient utility.
Modern Trends and Customization
Prince Charlie Jackets: Even though Prince Charlie jackets are the traditional ones, you can enhance or modernize their visuals. The main theme of the jacket is unchangeable but uses variations in collars, buttons, and lapels to have a contemporary look.
Argyll Jackets: This specific kilt jacket variation is much different from the second one because of being more adaptive. For its customization, you can shorten the length, use another material to make it, and change the collar style. Similarly, pairing variations in other kilt accessories is a possibility. You may wear different types of sporrans from casual to day; in footwear, pairing simple leather or dress shoes is also a possibility.
A Detailed Comparison of Prince Charlie vs. Argyll Jackets
| Features | Prince Charlie Jacket | Argyll Jacket |
| Formality | Most formal kilt jacket; ideal for evening events | Semi-formal and day events |
| Cut and Fit | Short front with longer tails; ends at waistline | Suit-like cut; snug on shoulders; shorter cut for kilt visibility |
| Styling & Accessories | Includes full traditional set: fly plaid, brooch, sgian-dubh, etc. | More flexible with accessories; fewer required; more casual options |
| Price | Generally more expensive due to premium materials and design | Less expensive; simpler design; often made with tweed |
| Comfort | Slightly less comfortable due to tighter fit; made from barathea wool | More comfortable with looser fit; tweed may feel rougher |
| Practicality | 2 external pockets; supported by sporran | 2 external + 1 internal pocket for added utility |
| Modern Trends | Minor customization and retains traditional look | Highly customizable: fabric, cut, collar, accessories |
Choosing Between Prince Charlie and Argyll Based on Occasion
When it comes to choosing between Prince Charlie and Argyll jackets based on the occasion, two aspects are very essential to give thought to.to. First you must know the formality of an event, and second, the time of the occasion is also important. As mentioned earlier, Prince Charlie jackets suit the formal events; you cannot wear them at semi-formal or formal events.
Argyll Kilt outfits, on the other hand, are versatile and not restricted to formal events only but also work in some casual events. In the same manner, the occasion’s time is important. If it is going to occur in colder months, using heavy fabric becomes essential, while the selection of fabric changes in summer. Some events to wear these jackets are given below to make things easier.| Prince Charlie Jackets | Argyll Jackets |
| Black Tie Events | Day-themed Weddings |
| Evening Themed Weddings | Saint Andrew’s Day |
| Award Shows | Highland Games |
| Funerals | Ceilidh |
| Graduation Ceremonies | Musical Festivals |
| Formal Dinners & Balls | Traditional Events (Hogmanay, Christmas) |
Where to Buy Prince Charlie and Argyll Jackets
Now that you know the features and differences between Argyll and Prince Charlie jackets, now it’s time to decide on which one of them you are going to buy next. If your concern is where to buy, do not go anywhere other than The Utility Kilt. We are an online store serving many countries. All our products, whether they are kilts, accessories, or jackets, are made of extraordinary quality. The story continues; you do not have to break your bank, but our products are available at very cheap prices compared to the stores working in the market. Below are our best-selling kilt jackets.
FAQs: Prince Charlie vs. Argyll Jackets
Are there color variations available for both jackets, or are they always black?
Prince Charlie jackets are usually available in black and blue because of being specific to strictly formal events only. Therefore, Argyll jackets are available in many shades including black, navy-blue, charcoal, and bottle green.
Can women wear Prince Charlie or Argyll jackets?
It is not a traditional approach for women to wear these kilts, as they are specific to men only. Some women with adaptive minds wear these kilts; however, tartan kilts are pretty common in women.
What type of footwear pairs best with each style?
The choice of footwear depends on the jacket and the event’s theme. In formal events where Prince Charlie jackets are worn, Ghillie Brogues are essential, while in semi-formal or less formal events, dress shoes or simple black shoes pair well with Argyll jackets.
Can I rent these jackets, or is buying recommended?
Yes, you can absolutely rent both these jackets but it is not a good idea. A rented kilt can result in typical issues including lower quality, sizing, and the overall condition of clothing. If your budget allows, prefer to buy one.
